AutoCodes – Generic – P3078

P3078 Code - Throttle Control Airflow At Idle Too Low

Quick Answer

P3078 indicates Throttle Control Airflow At Idle Too Low. Common causes include Dirty Throttle Body, Intake Leaks. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P3078 indicates Throttle Control Airflow At Idle Too Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Dirty Throttle Body, Intake Leaks.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 9,855

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 16, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P3078 Description

OBDII Code P3078 - Throttle Control Airflow At Idle Too Low - AutoCodes.com — P3078 Code - Throttle Control Airflow At Idle Too Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P3078?

Dirty Throttle Body
Intake Leaks

How to Fix the DTC P3078?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P3078 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P3078 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P3078 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P3078 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P3078 Audi — Throttle Control Airflow At Idle Too Low
P3078 Volkswagen — Throttle Control Airflow At Idle Too Low

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P3078 Code

1. What are the common symptoms associated with OBDII code P3078 (Throttle Control Airflow At Idle Too Low)?

- Common symptoms include rough idling, stalling at idle, decreased engine power, and potential issues with acceleration.

2. What are some possible causes of OBDII code P3078?

- Causes may include a faulty throttle position sensor, vacuum leaks, clogged air filters, a malfunctioning throttle body, or issues with the idle air control valve.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P3078?

- Diagnose the code by checking the throttle position sensor, inspecting for vacuum leaks, testing the idle air control valve, and ensuring the throttle body is clean and functioning properly.

4. What repair tips can help resolve OBDII code P3078?

- Repair tips may include cleaning or replacing the throttle body, replacing the throttle position sensor, fixing any vacuum leaks, and ensuring proper functioning of the idle air control valve.

5. Can driving with OBDII code P3078 cause further damage to the vehicle?

- Driving with this code may lead to reduced fuel efficiency, poor engine performance, and potential damage to other engine components if left unresolved for an extended period.

6. Are there any safety concerns associated with OBDII code P3078?

- While the vehicle may still be operable with this code, safety concerns may arise if the engine stalls unexpectedly or experiences a loss of power while driving.

7. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code P3078 until it can be repaired?

- It is generally not recommended to continue driving with this code as it can lead to further issues and potentially compromise the safety and performance of the vehicle.

8. Can I reset OBDII code P3078 using a diagnostic tool?

- Resetting the code with a diagnostic tool may temporarily clear the error, but it is crucial to address the underlying issue causing the code to prevent it from reoccurring.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P3078 at a mechanic or dealership?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the code, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

10. Are there any preventative maintenance measures to avoid OBDII code P3078 in the future?

- Regularly maintaining and servicing the throttle body, air filters, vacuum lines, and other related components can help prevent issues that may trigger OBDII code P3078.