P0510 code meaning
Closed Throttle Position Switch
Powertrain system Generic code P05xx codes Check engine light
What P0510 means
Older engines with a mechanical throttle have a separate idle contact on the throttle or the combined throttle position sensor (Bosch Motronic throttle switch, Nissan and Toyota sensors with idle switch). The module uses it to recognise idle – for idle control, fuel cut-off on deceleration and idle ignition timing – and as a substitute if the position sensor fails. P0510 flags an implausible switch: closed with the throttle open, or open at idle. Manufacturer thresholds were not found in accessible documents; with electronic throttle the switch no longer exists.
P0510 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P0510
- Idle too high or fluctuating
- Engine stalls when coasting
- No fuel cut-off on deceleration (higher consumption)
Common causes of P0510
- Most likelyIdle switch or throttle sensor misadjusted
- Most likelySwitch contacts worn, dirty or corroded
- PossibleWire or connector open or shorted
- PossibleThrottle not closing (deposits, sticking cable, stop misadjusted)
- Less likelyValue not relearned after replacement
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Closed throttle switchThrottle position sensorSwitch wiringEngine control module
What each part of P0510 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 5 | Area: vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs. |
| 10 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0510 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P0510
What does P0510 mean?
P0510 means "Closed Throttle Position Switch". Older engines with a mechanical throttle have a separate idle contact on the throttle or the combined throttle position sensor (Bosch Motronic throttle switch, Nissan and Toyota sensors with idle switch). It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0510?
Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.
Will P0510 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0510 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P0510 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 1.5 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P0510 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.