P0507 on 2015-2016 Ram ProMaster City: High Idle Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2015-2016 Ram PROMASTER CITY

The 2.4L Tigershark engine in the ProMaster City is known for a few specific issues that can lead to a P0507 code. Firstly, Ram has issued multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that address this and other related codes with a PCM software update, indicating that the original software logic was a primary cause. This is the most unique aspect of this platform; a software flash is a very common fix. Secondly, vacuum leaks are a frequent trigger, with particular suspicion falling on the PCV system and intake manifold gaskets, which have been noted as potential weak points on the Tigershark engine.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Engine idle speed is noticeably high (e.g., 1100-1500 RPM), or sounds faster than usual
• Vehicle lurches or engages harshly when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse
• Requires more brake pedal effort to keep the vehicle stationary while in gear
• Rough or unstable idle
• Increased fuel consumption

Most Likely Causes

1. Outdated Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software 🔴 High Probability Ram has released at least four separate TSBs for the 2015-2016 ProMaster City that list P0507 as a code resolved by a software update. This indicates the original PCM calibration was overly sensitive or had logic flaws related to idle control, making a software update a primary and highly probable solution.
   How to confirm: A Ram dealer or a shop with a wiTECH scan tool must check the vehicle's current software calibration ID against the latest version available from the manufacturer. This is the only definitive way to confirm.
   Typical fix: Reprogramming (flashing) the PCM with the latest software. This must be done by a dealer or a properly equipped independent shop. The TSBs often bundle fixes for dozens of other potential codes.
   Est. part cost: $0 (if covered by warranty/recall), $100-$250 (labor for flashing)
2. Vacuum Leak 🟡 Medium Probability Hoses and gaskets can degrade over time. On the 2.4L Tigershark, the intake manifold gasket is a known potential leak point, as is the PCV system. A cracked PCV hose or a stuck-open valve creates a significant vacuum leak.
   How to confirm: Listen for a hissing sound from the engine bay at idle. A professional can perform a smoke test to pinpoint the exact location of the leak. You can also carefully spray carburetor cleaner or brake cleaner around suspected vacuum lines and gaskets; a change in engine idle indicates you've found the leak.
   Typical fix: Replace the cracked hose, faulty gasket, or leaking component. Common culprits are the PCV valve/hose and intake manifold gaskets.
   Est. part cost: $10-$150
3. Dirty or Sticking Throttle Body 🟡 Medium Probability Carbon and oil vapor from the PCV system can build up in the throttle body over time, preventing the throttle plate from closing completely. This allows excess air to enter the engine, raising the idle speed.
   How to confirm: Remove the air intake hose connected to the throttle body and visually inspect for black, gummy deposits around the throttle plate and bore. The plate should be able to close fully without obstruction.
   Typical fix: Clean the throttle body bore and plate using a dedicated throttle body cleaner and a soft brush or cloth. After cleaning, an idle relearn procedure may be necessary, which sometimes can be accomplished by driving the vehicle for a few cycles, but may require a scan tool.
   Est. part cost: $10-$20 (for cleaner)
4. Faulty Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Valve 🟡 Medium Probability The PCV valve can get stuck open, creating a constant vacuum leak that the PCM cannot compensate for, leading to a high idle. This is a common failure point on many vehicles as they age.
   How to confirm: A stuck-open PCV valve often acts as a significant vacuum leak. Removing the valve and shaking it (a rattle is good, no sound is bad) is a basic test. A more definitive check is to see if air can pass through it too easily, indicating it's stuck open.
   Typical fix: Replace the PCV valve. It is an inexpensive and accessible part for maintenance. The Mopar part number is 5047063AA.
   Est. part cost: $10-$30

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty EVAP Purge Valve:
• Failing Electronic Throttle Body:

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check for TSBs: Before any physical inspection, check with a dealer or use an online service to see if TSBs like #18-063-17 REV. A apply to your VIN. A software update is the most common fix.
2. Read Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to read the code and document any other codes present. Codes like P0171 or P0456 can point towards a vacuum leak.
3. Visual and Auditory Inspection: Visually inspect the engine bay for any obvious disconnected or cracked vacuum hoses, especially around the air intake system and PCV valve. Listen for a distinct hissing sound at idle, which would indicate a vacuum leak.
4. Inspect Throttle Body: Remove the air intake tube from the throttle body and inspect for heavy carbon buildup. If dirty, clean it thoroughly with throttle body cleaner and a soft cloth. Do not use abrasive materials.
5. Inspect PCV System: Remove and inspect the PCV valve (Mopar #5047063AA). It should rattle when shaken. If it's silent or allows air to pass through easily, it's stuck open and needs replacement.
6. Perform Smoke Test: If no obvious issues are found, perform a smoke test to check for hard-to-find vacuum leaks from gaskets (like the intake manifold) or small hose cracks. This is the most effective way to find hidden leaks.
7. Perform PCM Update: If all physical components check out, the most likely cause is software. Have a dealer or qualified shop with a wiTECH tool perform the PCM reflash as specified in the relevant TSBs.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• PCV Valve (OEM #5047063AA) — A common failure point that can stick open, creating a vacuum leak that directly causes a high idle. It is a cheap and easy part to replace as a first step.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Standard Motor Products
  OEM price range: $10-$15
  Aftermarket price range: $8-$20
• Throttle Body Gasket (OEM #04891865AA) — Should be replaced whenever the throttle body is removed for cleaning to prevent creating a new vacuum leak.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Fel-Pro
  OEM price range: $5-$15
  Aftermarket price range: $3-$10
• Intake Manifold Gasket (OEM #4884550AB) — A known source of vacuum leaks on the 2.4L Tigershark engine that can cause a high idle and a P0171 lean code.

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0506 — Idle Speed Performance Lower Than Expected. This code can appear alongside P0507 if the PCM is struggling to maintain a stable idle due to intermittent vacuum leaks or a faulty idle control system. Both are mentioned in the same TSBs.
• P0171 — System Too Lean (Bank 1). A vacuum leak is a primary cause for both P0507 and P0171. The unmetered air that raises the idle speed also creates a lean air/fuel mixture. Both codes are listed in TSBs #18-063-17 REV. A and #18-008-16 REV. B.
• P0456 — EVAP System Small Leak. While often related to a loose gas cap, a faulty EVAP purge valve stuck open can act as a vacuum leak, potentially causing both codes. P0456 is also mentioned in TSB #18-063-17 REV. A.
• P1607 — PCM Internal Shutdown Timer Rationality. This code is frequently linked to the same PCM software glitches that can cause P0507, as noted in manufacturer TSBs #18-063-17 REV. A and #18-008-16 REV. B.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 18-063-17 REV. A: Mentions P0507 as one of several codes addressed by a PCM software update for Powertrain Diagnostic and System Improvements.
• 18-008-16 REV. B: Lists P0507 as a code that can be resolved by a PCM software update related to various drivability and electrical system issues.
• 18-030-16: Includes P0507 in a list of codes fixed by a PCM reflash.
• 18-048-15 REVA: Also cites P0507 as a code addressed by a PCM software update.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Multiple Technical Service Bulletins (#18-063-17 REV. A, #18-008-16 REV. B, #18-030-16, #18-048-15 REVA) have been issued by Ram, indicating that a PCM software update can resolve this code, often along with a long list of other DTCs. This suggests the original software was overly sensitive or had logic flaws, making a dealer visit for a reflash a primary diagnostic step.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• P0507 Code Trigger Condition — expected: Target idle RPM (typically 650-800 RPM).. Failure: Actual engine speed is 200 RPM or more above the target idle speed for a sustained period (e.g., 30 seconds).
• Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor Voltage — expected: Approximately 1.0V at idle (high vacuum).. Failure: Voltage is significantly higher at idle, or exceeds 5.0V, which can trigger related faults.
• Battery Voltage During PCM Flash — expected: Must be maintained between 13.2 and 13.5 volts using a stable power supply.. Failure: Voltage dropping below 13.2 volts can cause the reflash procedure to fail, potentially corrupting the PCM.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH (or equivalent professional scanner): ETC Relearn (Electronic Throttle Control Relearn) or Throttle/PCM Adaptation Reset — This function is critical after cleaning or replacing the throttle body. It forces the PCM to relearn the throttle plate's closed position and idle airflow values. Failure to perform this reset is a common reason for a continued high idle after a physical repair.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• CAN-C 'Star' Connector — Near the driver's seat area.. A recall was issued for 2015-2016 models because this connector is prone to water intrusion and corrosion. This can cause a U0402 (Implausible Data from TCM) code, which is frequently listed in the same TSBs as P0507. A technician might overlook this internal electrical issue while searching for an under-hood vacuum leak.
• Engine Wiring Harness — The section of the harness near the oil filter.. On similar engines, the protective sheath on this part of the harness is known to crack and deteriorate, exposing wires to potential damage from heat and vibration. This can cause erratic signals from sensors like the crankshaft position sensor (P0335), another code often bundled with P0507 in software-related TSBs.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 68087364AA → 68195741AA — This is the part number trail for the upstream oxygen sensor. While not a direct cause of P0507, a lean code (P0171) often accompanies P0507 due to a vacuum leak. P0171 can be misdiagnosed as a faulty O2 sensor. Knowing the correct, current part number is crucial if the sensor is replaced during diagnosis.
  Heads up: Using a non-OEM sensor before performing a required PCM software update is not recommended, as the new software is calibrated for the characteristics of the OEM sensor.