P050A OBD-II: Cold Start Idle Air Control System Performance

P050A Severity

Moderate

Will P050A go away on its own?

Once the vehicle's onboard system no longer detects the issue, most codes will disappear on their own. If your vehicle still has this code, however, it should be properly diagnosed to avoid a more serious problem.

For a proper diagnosis, RepairPal Certified shops have the equipment, tools, and expertise.

Moderate severity codes might not threaten the vehicle's safety or functionality immediately, but you should still get it diagnosed within a reasonable time frame to keep your car running well.

Schedule Diagnosis

What causes OBD-II fault code P050A?

The engine's control module (PCM) does everything possible to help the catalytic converter warm up as quickly as possible in an effort to reduce emissions. Part of the control module's logic in the this process is to increase the amount of air flowing through the engine on startup and adjust the engine's timing accordingly. If the airflow through the engine does not match the PCM's request for airflow, the PCM will store code P050A.

Need a P050A diagnosis? Trust our experts.

RepairPal Certified shops provide expert diagnostics and repairs with transparent upfront pricing and a minimum 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on all services.
30 Certified Locations
Shop Image

Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Center - Grandview

4.7
(84)
2.39 mi
1524 W 5th Ave
Columbus, OH
Open
Closes 5:00 PM
Call
Shop Image

Excite Auto Repair & Towing

4.4
(15)
5.94 mi
3430 Westerville Road
Columbus, OH
Closed
Opens 9:00 AM Mon
Call
Shop Image

All In Auto Service

4.9
(23)
6.56 mi
5200 Fisher Road
Columbus, OH
Open
Closes 6:00 PM
Call
Shop Image

Tuffy Tire & Auto Service - Grove City

4.4
(520)
6.67 mi
2131 Stringtown Rd
Grove City, OH
Open
Closes 6:00 PM
Call
See All 30 Locations

OBD II Fault Code

  • OBD II P050A

OBD-II Code Decreased engine performance is defined as a Cold Start Idle Air Control System Performance

The engine's control module (PCM) does everything possible to help the catalytic converter warm up as quickly as possible in an effort to reduce emissions. Part of the control module's logic in the this process is to increase the amount of air flowing through the engine on startup and adjust the engine's timing accordingly. If the airflow through the engine does not match the PCM's request for airflow, the PCM will store code P050A.

Decreased engine performance Symptoms

  • Decreased engine performance
  • Increased fuel consumption

Common Problems That Trigger the P050A Code

  • Clogged air filter
  • Idle Air Control (IAC) valve failure
  • Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor failure
  • Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure
  • Throttle body assembly failure
  • Wiring issue

Common Repairs Needed for the P050A Code

RepairPal Car Genius

Ask our experts about P050A.

RepairPal Car Genius™ is a free resource for vehicle owners seeking advice on maintenance, auto repair, shop inquiries, estimates, and finding a trustworthy repair shop in your area.

 Auto Repair Expert Auto Repair Expert

Call us at 877-913-1554

Available 9am – 6pm ET Monday through Friday

Call Our Experts