AutoCodesToyota – P0505 2005 Toyota Highlander

P0505 2005 Toyota Highlander Code - Idle Air Control System

Quick Answer

The idle speed is controlled by the Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS). Common causes include Dirty Throttle Body, Faulty Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) (Throttle body), Electronic Throttle Control System harness is open or shorted. 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
P0505 2005 Toyota Highlander indicates Idle Air Control System.
Common causes
Common causes include Dirty Throttle Body, Faulty Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) (Throttle body), Electronic Throttle Control System harness is open or shorted.
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 10,732
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 27, 2020
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Code P0505 2005 Toyota Highlander Description

The idle speed is controlled by the Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS). The ETCS is composed of the throttle motor, which operates the throttle valve, and the throttle position sensor, which detects the opening angle of the throttle valve. The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the throttle motor to provide the proper throttle valve opening angle to obtain the target idle speed.
The ECM regulates the idle speed by opening and closing the throttle valve using the ETCS. The ECM concludes that the idle speed control ECM function is malfunctioning and set the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) if:
1. The actual idle RPM varies more than the specified amount five times or more during a drive cycle
2. The learning value of the idle speed control remains at the maximum or minimum five times or more during a drive cycle.

Example: If the actual idle RPM varies from the target idle RPM by more than 200* rpm five times during a drive cycle, the ECM will turn on the MIL and will set a DTC.
OBDII Code P0505 2005 Toyota Highlander - Idle Air Control System - AutoCodes.com
P0505 2005 Toyota Highlander Code - Idle Air Control System

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0505 2005 Toyota Highlander?

  • Dirty Throttle Body
  • Faulty Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) (Throttle body)
  • Electronic Throttle Control System harness is open or shorted
  • Electronic Throttle Control System circuit poor electrical connection
  • Air Induction System (Intake leak)
  • PCV hose connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0505 2005 Toyota Highlander?

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 P0505 2005 Toyota Highlander 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 P0505 2005 Toyota Highlander code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0505 2005 Toyota Highlander code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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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 P0505 2005 Toyota Highlander Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0505 mean on a 2005 Toyota Highlander?

P0505 indicates a malfunction in the Idle Air Control (IAC) system, which regulates the engine's idle speed.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0505 in a 2005 Toyota Highlander?

Symptoms include erratic idle, stalling, high idle speed, or difficulty starting the vehicle.

3. What causes the P0505 code in a 2005 Toyota Highlander?

Common causes include a dirty or faulty IAC valve, vacuum leaks, issues with the throttle body, or wiring/electrical problems.

4. Can a dirty throttle body trigger a P0505 code?

Yes, carbon buildup in the throttle body can disrupt airflow and trigger the P0505 code.

5. How do you diagnose the P0505 code in a 2005 Toyota Highlander?

Inspect the IAC valve, check for vacuum leaks, clean the throttle body, and verify electrical connections to the IAC system.

6. Can driving with a P0505 code damage my 2005 Toyota Highlander?

Driving with a P0505 code may lead to poor performance and stalling, but it typically doesn’t cause immediate severe damage.

7. How do you fix the P0505 code on a 2005 Toyota Highlander?

Solutions include cleaning or replacing the IAC valve, repairing vacuum leaks, cleaning the throttle body, or fixing electrical issues.

8. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the P0505 code?

You’ll need a scan tool, a multimeter, and basic hand tools to inspect and test the IAC system and related components.

9. How much does it cost to fix a P0505 code on a 2005 Toyota Highlander?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $150 to $400, depending on whether cleaning or part replacement is needed.

10. Can I clear the P0505 code without fixing the problem?

Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue will likely result in the code returning, as the problem persists.

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