CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY
Code meaning: P0507 – Idle Control System RPM Higher Than Expected. On 2018–2024 Toyota Camry, idle speed is managed by the engine computer using electronic throttle control. A P0507 indicates the ECU is requesting a higher idle speed than the actual measured idle, or the measured idle is staying high despite the ECU’s commanded target. In practice, this is typically caused by air entering the intake (vacuum or bypass), throttle control issues, or sensor/actuator faults that cause the ECU to think more air is entering than it should.
Severity: Moderate. A high idle can worsen fuel economy, raise exhaust emissions, and in some situations can cause rough idling, stalling during braking or shifting, or drivability annoyances. It’s not usually dangerous, but it can be irritating and may mask other issues (vacuum leaks, sensor faults, or throttle system faults).
Note about data: In the provided NHTSA dataset for 2018–2024 Camry, there are no P0507 complaints or recalls listed. There is one owner complaint for a different code (P0442). No recalls found in NHTSA database.
COMMON CAUSES ON TOYOTA CAMRY
Vacuum leaks and leaks in the intake/vacuum system (hose splits, cracked brake booster hose, PCV hose, manifold gasket leaks). A leak after the MAF sensor or around the intake can cause extra unmetered air, prompting a higher idle.
Throttle body/debris and throttle plate issues (carbon buildup, sticky throttle plate). Even with drive-by-wire, the throttle body can accumulate deposits that keep the throttle blade from fully closing, raising idle.
Electronic throttle control system (ETCS) faults or throttle actuator motor issues. The ECU relies on position feedback from the throttle actuator; a fault here can cause improper idle control or high idle.
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor contamination or wiring problems. A high reading or a faulty signal can lead the ECU to compensate by increasing idle.
Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor issues or readings out of spec. Incorrect MAP data can affect fuel/air calculations and idle control.
PCV system faults (valve, hoses, fittings) that introduce unmetered air.
EGR system faults (valve sticking open or malfunction). An EGR issue can affect intake breathing and idle.
Intake manifold gasket or other vacuum/PCV plumbing faults.
Idle air bypass or IAC/idle control components in older designs or specific configurations (some Camrys use an integrated idle control approach with the throttle actuator rather than a separate IAC valve).
SYMPTOMS YOU MAB EXPECT WITH P0507
Idle speed higher than normal when the car is at rest, with or without accessories on (AC might intensify or reveal the condition).
Rough, unstable, or surging idle.
Occasional stumble or misfire indicators around idle (may be more noticeable at cold start).
Increased fuel consumption due to extended high idle duration.
In some cases, the check engine light will be on; in others, the vehicle may run normally once moving, until the idle condition persists.
Possible related symptoms when the issue is vacuum/air intake related: hissing sounds from vacuum lines, or a noticeable vacuum leak.
DIAGNOSTIC STEPS (structured, practical approach)
Important: Start with the basics and verify the problem with live data. Use a professional-grade scan tool to view live sensor data and freeze-frame information.
Step A: Confirm and document
- Scan for DTC P0507 and note freeze-frame data: actual idle RPM, commanded idle, engine temperature, engine load, TPS position, MAF voltage, MAP reading.
- Note any accompanying codes (P0100s, P0171/P0174, P0300s, P0420s, etc.) that can guide the root cause.
Step B: Visual and basic checks
- Inspect all vacuum hoses and connections for cracks, splits, or disconnections (especially around the brake booster, PCV line, and intake manifold). Check for oil-soaked hoses.
- Inspect the intake system for loose clamps or leaks after the MAF sensor.
- Inspect the throttle body and accelerator pedal module area for contamination/debris.
Step C: Throttle system assessment
- If equipped with drive-by-wire, inspect the throttle actuator motor and its connectors. Check for ECU communications with the ETCS and any fault codes related to the throttle.
- Remove the intake duct and visually inspect the throttle plate for carbon buildup and ensure it can fully close and seal when commanded.
- Clean carbon buildup from the throttle body and the bore with approved throttle body cleaner and a lint-free cloth. Avoid aggressive scrubbing that could damage the bore.
Step D: Sensor checks
- MAF sensor: remove and clean if contaminated (be careful not to damage the sensor). Replace if cleaning does not restore proper readings or if codes indicate MAF failure.
- MAP sensor: verify readings within spec under vacuum and at idle. Replace if readings are out of spec.
- PCV valve and hoses: replace a sticking or clogged PCV valve; inspect hoses for collapse or cracks.
Step E: Vacuum integrity test
- Perform a smoke test to locate any vacuum leaks that aren’t obvious visually (e.g., tiny cracks or leaks around fittings).
Step F: EGR and intake components
- Check EGR valve operation (some Camrys can have EGR stuck open or partially open). Clean or replace as needed.
- Inspect intake manifold gasket for leaks if symptoms persist after other checks.
Step G: Idle relearn and reset
- After cleaning or replacing throttle components or sensors, perform the recommended idle relearn procedure for the Camry (consult the service manual for the exact steps for your engine/VIN). This may involve engine warm-up, specific throttle movements, and tool-assisted initiation of idle speed learning.
Step H: Road test and data review
- After any service, perform a road test to ensure idle now matches commanded values in various conditions (cold start, warm start, AC on/off, different loads).
- Re-scan and verify whether P0507 returns or if any related codes appear.
Note: Some Camry configurations use the electronic throttle control (ETCS) without a separate IAC valve. In such cases, focus on the throttle actuator, throttle body cleanliness, and confirming the ECM’s commanded idle response.
RELATED CODES
- P0505 Idle Control System Malfunction
- P0506 Idle Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
- P0508 Idle Control System – Idle Speed Adaptation/Performance (in some vehicles this code can appear when there are TPS/air-fuel discrepancies)
- P0100–P0104 MAF sensor problems (contamination, wiring, or heater circuit)
- P0171 / P0174 System Too Lean / Rich (fuel trim issues that can accompany idle problems)
- P0300 Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire (may appear if idle is unstable or misfire occurs at idle)
- P1121 or P1127 (TPS related or throttle position sensor range/performance in some models)
Note: Exact code availability can vary by model year and engine option (2.5L I4 vs. 3.5L V6). Use the live data to confirm which sensors are contributing.
REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 PRICES)
Prices vary by region, dealer vs independent shop, and engine variant. The ranges below are typical ballparks in USD for a Camry (2018–2024). Labor rates commonly range from about $90–$140/hour depending on location.
Throttle body cleaning or cleaning deposits
- DIY: $0–$20 for cleaner and cloth
- Professional service: $75–$150
Throttle body replacement (ETCS/throttle body assembly)
- Parts: roughly $250–$600 (varies by engine and whether you replace the entire throttle body assembly)
- Labor: about 1–2 hours
- Total typical range: $400–$1,000 (could be higher with advanced diagnostics or added parts)
Vacuum leak repair (hoses, clamps, PCV valve)
- Small hose/clamp or PCV valve: $10–$60 parts; $40–$120 labor
- Major leak (manifold gasket, cracked vacuum line): $200–$900 parts and labor
PCV valve and hose replacement
- Parts: $15–$60
- Labor: $40–$120
- Total: $60–$180
MAF sensor replacement or cleaning
- Cleaning: DIY costs minimal
- Replacement: $150–$350 parts + $50–$150 labor
MAP sensor replacement
- Parts: $60–$180
- Labor: $50–$150
- Total: $110–$330
EGR valve cleaning or replacement
- Cleaning: $50–$150
- Replacement: $150–$500 parts + $50–$150 labor
Idle relearn procedure (after cleaning/replacement)
- Free if you perform with basic tools or a shop may bill under labor for the procedure; typical dealership idle relearn is included in diagnostic or service bill if a tech performed it.
Overall range for a full repair if a throttle/control issue is confirmed and corrected: roughly $250–$1,000+, depending on whether the fix is cleaning deposits or replacing major components like the throttle body and related sensors.
DIY VS PROFESSIONAL
DIY-friendly tasks (if you have basic tools and a reasonable level of comfort):
- Visual inspection of hoses and clamps
- Cleaning the throttle body and removing carbon buildup
- Cleaning or lightly testing MAF sensor (careful: avoid damaging the sensor element)
- Replacing PCV valve and simple vacuum hoses
- Cleaning EGR valve if accessible and not heavily contaminated
- Running basic diagnostic checks with an OBD-II scanner
Professional tasks (recommended for P0507 on Camry):
- Accurate diagnosis with live data and proper leak testing (smoke test)
- Throttle body assessment and ETCS testing (may require special tooling)
- Correct idle relearn/recalibration after any throttle or sensor work
- Ensuring no hidden vacuum leaks or ECU-related issues
- If a throttle body replacement is required, this is typically best left to a shop
Safety and risk: Drive-by-wire throttle systems involve the engine control computer and high-voltage/precision components. If you’re uncertain about electrical connections, teardown, or relearn procedures, seek a professional.
PREVENTION
Regular maintenance of air intake: replace air filters on schedule; avoid dirty air that can contaminate sensors.
Keep vacuum systems intact: inspect and replace cracked hoses or degraded gaskets.
Monitor and service PCV valve and lines to prevent unintended air leaks.
Periodically inspect and clean the throttle body and intake for carbon buildup, especially if the vehicle is used for short trips or city driving.
Use high-quality fuel and avoid fuel with excessive octane requirements unless recommended by Toyota for your model.
When performing any service on the air intake or throttle system, perform the appropriate idle relearn as required by Toyota service procedures to ensure proper idle speed.
If you notice persistent high idle, address underlying vacuum or air-fuel discrepancies promptly to avoid exacerbating idle issues or damaging the catalytic converter due to improper emissions.
DATA NOTE
- Recalls: No recalls found in NHTSA database for the 2018–2024 Toyota Camry in relation to P0507 based on the provided data.
- Complaints: The available owner complaint in the provided data references P0442 (evaporative system) rather than P0507.
If you’d like, I can tailor this guide further to your exact Camry engine (2.5L 2AR-FE/A25A-FKS vs. 3.5L 2GR-FKS), or help you interpret live data from your scanner to pinpoint whether P0507 is likely caused by a vacuum leak, throttle system issue, or sensor fault in your specific vehicle.