P0505 OBD-II: Idle Air Control System
P0505 Severity
Should you fix P0505 yourself?
Identifying an OBD code is just the start of a complete diagnostic routine. Most trouble codes are caused by a sensor reporting a value that is out of range. Just replacing a sensor may not fix underlying issues. Be sure to understand the code, the part or system in your car that the code refers to, and the risks of delaying professional repair.
Proper diagnosis will save you time and money on unnecessary repairs.
Urgent codes indicate immediate action is necessary. These are urgent and significant malfunctions that can cause severe damage to the vehicle or harm the driver and passengers.
What causes OBD-II fault code P0505?
The Idle Control System manages the engine idle speed. To raise or lower the engine Idle speed, the engine control module (PCM), opens or closes the Idle Air Control valve to allow more or less air into the engine. When the PCM cannot achieve the desired RPM, it will set code P0505.
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What Does P0505 Code Mean?
Fault Code Definition
The purpose of the Idle Control System is to manage the engine idle speed. This is often controlled by an Idle Air Control Motor mounted on or near the Throttle Body of the Intake Manifold. In some cases, an Idle Air Stepper Valve or Motor is used. To raise or lower the engine Idle speed, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) opens or closes either of these devices to allow more or less air by the Throttle Plate in the Throttle Body. This is done in order to meet the ever-changing loads placed on the engine, such as the use of air conditioning, heat, and wipers.
P0505 Symptoms
- Check Engine Light will illuminate
- Engine idle speed is very low and may die at stops
- Engine idles rough
- In some cases, engine may idle very high
Common Problems That Trigger the P0505 Code
- Defective Idle Air Control Motor
- Intake Manifold Vacuum leaks
- Carbon buildup in the Throttle Body air passages
Common Misdiagnosis
- Idle Air Control Motor is replaced when code P0505 was triggered by carbon buildup in the Throttle Body air passages and Idle Air Control Motor
Ask our experts about P0505.
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