Shop Parts keyboard_double_arrow_right
Need car parts? Select your vehicle
Reading Time: 3 minutes
Summary
  • DTC P0510 stands for “Closed Throttle Position Switch Malfunction,” and it’s logged when the PCM detects a faulty signal from the throttle position switch.
  • Common causes of code P0510 include a faulty wiring harness, a failed closed throttle position switch, and a dislocated or malfunctioning throttle body idle set screw.
  • The most prominent symptom of code P0510 is a lit check engine light.

The throttle body has a valve that controls how much airflow enters the engine. The throttle body uses the throttle position sensor or switch to send information about the throttle body valve’s position to the powertrain control module (PCM). If you think your vehicle’s throttle body or throttle body switch is faulty, then you should connect a scan tool to check if the P0510 code, or other related trouble codes, have been stored.

What Does the P0510 Code Mean?

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0510 triggers when the PCM detects a faulty signal from the throttle position switch. There can be two kinds of throttle switches present in a vehicle: a closed throttle switch and an open throttle switch. Issues with either of the two can result in the engine using an incorrect air-fuel ratio because the PCM won’t be receiving correct information on the throttle’s position.

throttle position switch of a car
The code P0510 triggers when the PCM detects a faulty signal from the throttle position switch.

The PCM needs information on many different engine variables like throttle position to be able to determine the right air-fuel ratio. If it’s unable to find the right air-fuel mix, then the engine might not be able to run efficiently.

Note: The definition of code P0510 might be different depending on the vehicle manufacturer. Consult the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.

What are the Common Causes of the P0510 Code?

The issues that trigger the P0510 code are commonly caused by the following issues:

  • Failed closed throttle position switch
  • Faulty wiring harness
  • The throttle body idle set screw has been tampered with
  • Faulty PCM
mechanic fixing a throttle body idle screw
A tampered throttle body idle set screw is one of the common causes of the P0501 code.

What are the Common Symptoms of the P0510 Code?

The only common symptom of the P0510 code is an illuminated check engine light.

How to Diagnose the P0510 Code

The P0510 code indicates that there might be issues with your throttle position switch or PCM. Accurately identifying which one of these parts is faulty can be difficult because they need to be accessed and inspected. Both components can be difficult to access, especially if you aren’t familiar with DIY repairs. If you aren’t confident in your automotive skills, you should consult a trusted professional for a proper diagnosis.

How to Fix the P0510 Code

Without the right tools and technical knowledge, it can be hard to repair the problems that trigger a P0510 code. You might need to access parts inside your vehicle’s transmission, which can be a laborious task. Under these circumstances, bringing your vehicle to the nearest repair shop might be best. But if you think you have the experience and automotive know-how to work on your vehicle, make sure you follow the right steps and observe the necessary protocols.

Keep in mind that there isn’t a single solution that will resolve any trouble code, which is why it’s important to have the right resources. Guides like those from Chilton or an ALLDATA subscription contain vehicle-specific repair information, so you might want to check these out before you begin your repair.

Get a Brand-New Fuel Injector Today

Avoid driving your vehicle until you replace the faulty fuel injector triggering the P050D code. Damaged fuel injectors can cause your engine to misfire and idle rough. In some cases, they might even prevent your car from starting. This unpredictability can make driving your car dangerous. Luckily, you can easily solve this problem by getting a brand-new fuel injector from CarParts.com today.

At CarParts.com, you’ll find a wide selection of fuel injectors, sourced from only the most trusted manufacturers in the industry. We’re always coming up with the best deals for you, so you can get great parts at competitive prices. However, in case you aren’t completely satisfied with your order, you’ll be pleased to know that we have a 60-day return policy. We accept returns within 60 days of purchase, so you can shop without worry. If you want to return a part, just reach out to our customer support staff, who are always happy to help.

Replace your damaged fuel injector before it prevents your car from starting. Check out our wide selection of fuel injectors at CarParts.com and get a replacement today!

About The Authors
Written By Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Reviewed By Contact Center Manager and Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

William “Bill” Guzenski has produced hundreds of how-to videos for the automotive community. He’s an ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician, and is affiliated with the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA). He loves attending race events and car shows throughout the country, as well as traveling in his 40-foot motorhome, exploring abandoned mines and ghost towns.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

File Under : OBD-II Trouble Codes Tagged With :
CP Membership Plus
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
expand_more
CarParts.com Answers BE PART OF OUR COMMUNITY: Share your knowledge & help fellow drivers Join Now
The owner of this website has made a commitment to accessibility and inclusion, please report any problems that you encounter using the contact form on this website. This site uses the WP ADA Compliance Check plugin to enhance accessibility.