P0518 OBD-II: Idle Air Control Circuit Intermittent

P0518 Severity

Urgent

Should you fix P0518 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.

Schedule Diagnosis

What causes OBD-II fault code P0518?

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 P0518.

Need a P0518 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
(81)
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
Open
Closes 6:00 PM
Call
Shop Image

All In Auto Service

4.9
(22)
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

What Does P0518 Code Mean?

OBD-II Code P0518 is defined as a Idle Air Control Circuit Intermittent

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 P0518.

P0518 Symptoms

  • Engine idle speed is higher than normal
  • Engine stalls when coming to a stop

Common Problems That Trigger the P0518 Code

  • Idle Air Control (IAC) valve failure
  • Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure
  • Wiring issue
RepairPal Car Genius

Ask our experts about P0518.

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