AutoCodes – Generic – P0506

P0506 Code - Idle Control System RPM Lower Than Expected

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the engine idle speed to a specified level through the fine adjustment of the air, which is let into the intake manifold, by operating the electric throttle control actuator. Common causes include Dirty throttle body, Electric throttle control actuator misadjusted or damaged, Faulty Electric throttle control actuator. 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: P0506 indicates Idle Control System RPM Lower Than Expected.
Common causes: Common causes include Dirty throttle body, Electric throttle control actuator misadjusted or damaged, Faulty Electric throttle control actuator.
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 30,092

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 29, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0506 Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the engine idle speed to a specified level through the fine adjustment of the air, which is let into the intake manifold, by operating the electric throttle control actuator. The operating of the throttle valve is varied to allow for optimum control of the engine idling speed. The ECM calculates the actual engine speed from signals of crankshaft position sensor (POS) and camshaft position sensor.
The ECM controls the electric throttle control actuator so that the engine speed coincides with the target value memorized in the ECM. The target engine speed is the lowest speed at which the engine can operate steadily. The optimum value stored in the ECM is determined by taking into consideration various engine conditions, such as during warming up, deceleration, and engine load (air conditioner, power steering and cooling fan operation, etc.)

OBDII Code P0506 - Idle Control System RPM Lower Than Expected - AutoCodes.com — P0506 Code - Idle Control System RPM Lower Than Expected

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0506?

Dirty throttle body
Electric throttle control actuator misadjusted or damaged
Faulty Electric throttle control actuator
Intake air leak
Poor electrical connection to the Intake Air Control (IAC) valve

How to Fix the DTC P0506?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

If there are no intake leaks, clean throttle body, adjust engine idle, and erase engine code. If the code comes back, you may have to replace the Electric Throttle Control Actuator (Motor) to repair the problem.

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What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0506 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 P0506 code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P0506 Acura — Idle Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Audi — Idle Air Control System RPM Lower Than Expected Large vacuum leak on engine
P0506 BMW — Idle Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Buick — Idle Speed Low
P0506 Cadillac — Idle Speed Low
P0506 Chevrolet — Idle Speed Low
P0506 Ford — Idle Speed Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 GMC — Idle Speed Low
P0506 Honda — Idle Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Hummer — Idle Speed Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Infiniti — Idle Speed Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 KIA — Idle Air Control (IAC) System - RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Lincoln — Idle Speed Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Mazda — Idle Speed Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Mercedes-Benz — Idle Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Mercury — Idle Speed Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Mini-cooper — Idle Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Mitsubishi — Idle Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Nissan — Idle Speed Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Pontiac — Idle Speed Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Saturn — Idle Speed Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Subaru — Idle Speed Control System RPM Lower Than Expected
P0506 Volkswagen — Idle Air Control System RPM Lower Than Expected Large vacuum leak on engine
P0506 Volvo — Idle Too Little Response

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.