P0510: Closed Throttle Position Switch
The dedicated closed-throttle switch (or closed-throttle bit on the TPS) does not behave as expected - either it never activates, never deactivates, or shows incoherent state against TPS voltage and engine load. Used by older systems for fuel-cutoff and idle recognition.
What P0510 means
P0510 is a generic OBD-II powertrain code in the fuel & air group.
- Check engine light
- Usually on
- Emissions-related
- No
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
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Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Reduced throttle response, possible limp mode
- Hesitation or surging
- Idle too high or too low
Common causes
- 01Switch out of adjustment or wornMost likely
- 02TPS idle voltage offsetPossible
Can I drive with P0510?
Usually yes, for a short time.
The car will often drive normally, but get it diagnosed soon. If you notice rough running, warning lights flashing, overheating or a burning smell, stop driving.
Why we rate it moderate
- Turns on the check engine light
Severity is our rule-based rating from the code’s flags in OBDex and the system it affects, not an inspection of your car. If the check engine light is flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, stop driving and get help.
How to diagnose P0510
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just P0510. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Fix other faults first
If other codes are stored, start with power-supply, sensor-circuit and communication codes. They can cause this code as a side effect.
- 3
Check live data
Watch the related sensor and actuator readings in live data (Closed throttle switch, Throttle position sensor) and compare them with expected values in the service information for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: Switch out of adjustment or worn; TPS idle voltage offset. Test before replacing parts.
- 5
Check for recalls and service bulletins
Look up recalls for your exact vehicle with its VIN, and ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs). Manufacturers sometimes issue software updates or extended warranties for known faults.
- 6
Clear the code and verify the repair
After the repair, clear the code and drive the car under the conditions in the freeze-frame data to confirm it does not return.
P0510 repair cost estimate
Estimate, not a quote. Labor times are typical ranges for this code from OBDex, and $125/hr is an assumed rate. Shop rates and labor times vary by vehicle and region. Diagnosis time may be billed separately.
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Good DIY job?
- Yes, with a scan tool
Basic hand tools; a common first DIY job.
Parts and systems involved
- Closed throttle switch
- Throttle position sensor
P0510 FAQ
What does P0510 mean?
P0510 means “Closed Throttle Position Switch”. The dedicated closed-throttle switch (or closed-throttle bit on the TPS) does not behave as expected - either it never activates, never deactivates, or shows incoherent state against TPS voltage and engine load. Used by older systems for fuel-cutoff and idle recognition.
Is P0510 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate P0510 as moderate severity. Usually yes, for a short time. The car will often drive normally, but get it diagnosed soon. If you notice rough running, warning lights flashing, overheating or a burning smell, stop driving.
What causes P0510?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Switch out of adjustment or worn; TPS idle voltage offset. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix P0510?
Typical labor is about $40–$150 at an assumed $125/hour shop rate, plus parts. That is an estimate, not a quote: labor times and rates vary by vehicle and region, and diagnosis may be billed separately.
Can I fix P0510 myself?
DIY difficulty is easy. Many owners can handle it with a scan tool, a multimeter and basic hand tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will P0510 clear itself?
If the fault was intermittent, the warning may go off once the computer stops seeing it, but the code stays in memory. Fix the cause; clearing the code alone doesn’t repair anything.