Mazda 2 P0506: Idle Air Control – RPM Lower than Expected

P0506 This is an OBDII common trouble code. This is often triggered by an engine's idle speed that is below the predetermined limit.

It's a generic cod, meaning it can be used to refer to any code. Mazda 2 As it would for any other vehicle.

 P0506 Symptoms:  2

P0506 is most often visible while driving. These are some of the symptoms:

• The Service Engine is Soon to Be Lighted– The reason why you are here.
• Lower idle speed– Assuming that the code has been thrown due to a legitimate issue, you should notice the engine running slower when not pushing the gas.
• Stalling–  The idle may be too slow for the car to run without pressing on the accelerator pedal.

Mazda 2 P0506 Causes & Diagnosis

There may be many reasons for P0506. While the code specifically mentions the “Idle Air Control System”, it would be a mistake to just go ahead and replace the idle air control valve without a little due diligence. It’s not always the cause of the code.

These are the top causes of P0506 problems in Mazda 2. We also have a waist guide to help you troubleshoot these issues. Remember that different model years can cause P0506 symptoms. Start by searching for the a Vacuum leak From there, you can move on.

Vacuum Leak

Leaking vacuum systems can cause 2 to idle more. Leakage of the vacuum system causes the combustion chamber's air equilibrium to be upset. 

How do you find a leak in your vehicle's vaccum? (Popular Mechanics, Article)
Find a Vacuum leak in under a minute (2CarPros, YouTube)

Bad things can cause a vacuum leak vacuum hoseThe Take in a lot, EGR SystemYou can find it anywhere that air is flowing. It’s not hard to find a vacuum leak though. Use the resources above and you’ll find it in no time.

Valve for Idle Air Control

Modern fuel-injected engines have an idle air control valve. However, not all engines have an idle air control valve. If you have determined that you don’t have a vacuum leak, the IAC is a great second place to troubleshoot P0506.  You can find idle air control valves here It is very affordable.

How to diagnose an IAC valve (Autozone Guides)

Throttle Body

In the course of an automobile's life, it opens and closes its throttle body millions of time. The accumulation of dust and air can slow down the body's ability to withstand high levels of pressure. It can alter the characteristics of your vehicle's idle. When dirty, you’ll often feel the vehicle almost stall before the computer compensates and opens it a little more.

If the throttle body is damaged or not properly controlling airflow, then the code can be thrown.

How to spot signs that your throttle body is going down (Repair Pal)
How to tell if your throttle is bad or dirty (YouTube auto repair, Youtube).

Bloated Intake/Exhaust

It could be a problem in the catalytic converter or an obstruction to the intake manifold. This can lead to idle dropping and throwing P0506. 

Conclusion

The P0506 problem is serious. We recommend that you have your engine serviced immediately. This is because it can cause serious injury if the engine stalls. You're welcome!