AutoCodes – Ford – P1518 2003 Ford F150

P1518 2003 Ford F150 Code - Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open

Quick Answer

The Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) is an electrically actuated system consisting of a motorized actuator with an attaching linkage for each housing on each bank. Common causes include Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) actuator, Intake Manifold Runner Control actuator harness is open or shorted, Intake Manifold Runner Control actuator circuit poor electrical connection. 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: P1518 2003 Ford F150 indicates Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) actuator, Intake Manifold Runner Control actuator harness is open or shorted, Intake Manifold Runner Control actuator circuit poor electrical connection.
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.

Save to My Repairs Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 12,488

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 Aug 03, 2020

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P1518 2003 Ford F150 Description

The Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) is an electrically actuated system consisting of a motorized actuator with an attaching linkage for each housing on each bank. The linkage attaches to the housing butterfly plate levers. Each IMRC housing is an aluminum casting with two intake air passages for each cylinder. One passage is always open, and the other is opened and closed with a butterfly valve plate. The housing uses a return spring to hold the plates closed. The motorized actuator houses internal switches to provide feedback to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), indicating linkage and plate position. Under about 3000 rpm, the vacuum solenoid will be energized. This will allow the manifold vacuum to be applied and the butterfly valve plates to stay closed. Above approximately 3000 rpm, the vacuum solenoid will be de-energized. This will allow a vacuum to vent from the actuator and the butterfly valve plates to open. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when the IMRC is commanded close, but the IMRC monitor indicates open.

OBDII Code P1518 2003 Ford F150 - Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open - AutoCodes.com — P1518 2003 Ford F150 Code - Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1518 2003 Ford F150?

Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) actuator
Intake Manifold Runner Control actuator harness is open or shorted
Intake Manifold Runner Control actuator circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P1518 2003 Ford F150?

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 P1518 2003 Ford F150 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 P1518 2003 Ford F150 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1518 2003 Ford F150 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1518 2003 Ford F150 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P1518 2003 Ford F150 Code

1. What does OBDII code P1518 on a 2003 Ford F150 mean?

The code P1518 indicates an issue with the Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) system, specifically that the runner control is stuck open.

2. What are the common symptoms of a stuck open Intake Manifold Runner Control on a 2003 Ford F150?

Common symptoms include rough idle, decreased engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and possibly a Check Engine Light illuminated on the dashboard.

3. What are the potential causes of the Intake Manifold Runner Control being stuck open on a 2003 Ford F150?

Possible causes include a faulty IMRC actuator, damaged linkage, carbon buildup in the intake manifold, or electrical issues within the IMRC system.

4. How can I diagnose the issue causing the P1518 code on my 2003 Ford F150?

Diagnosing the problem involves visually inspecting the IMRC components, checking for vacuum leaks, testing the IMRC actuator, and scanning the system for related error codes.

5. Can I continue driving my 2003 Ford F150 with the P1518 code present?

While the vehicle may still be operable with the code, it is not recommended to continue driving for an extended period as it can lead to decreased engine performance and potential long-term damage.

6. How can I repair a stuck open Intake Manifold Runner Control on my 2003 Ford F150?

Repair options include cleaning the intake manifold, replacing the IMRC actuator or linkage, addressing any vacuum leaks, and ensuring proper electrical connections.

7. Will resetting the Check Engine Light resolve the P1518 code on my 2003 Ford F150?

Simply resetting the Check Engine Light may temporarily clear the code, but it is crucial to address the underlying issue causing the code to prevent it from reoccurring.

8. Is it possible to prevent the Intake Manifold Runner Control from getting stuck open on my 2003 Ford F150?

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the intake manifold and inspecting the IMRC components during tune-ups, can help prevent issues with the IMRC system.

9. How much does it typically cost to fix the P1518 code related to a stuck open Intake Manifold Runner Control on a 2003 Ford F150?

The cost of repairs can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast with basic automotive knowledge fix the P1518 code on a 2003 Ford F150?

Depending on the specific cause of the issue, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address the problem themselves, especially if it involves tasks like cleaning the intake manifold or replacing simple components like the IMRC actuator.