Home / DTC / P1520 — Intake Manifold Runner Control Circuit Malfunction

P1520 — Intake Manifold Runner Control Circuit Malfunction

Detailed page for trouble code P1520.

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Code

P1520

Other P — Powertrain

Intake Manifold Runner Control Circuit Malfunction

Brand: Other
Views: UK: 32 EN: 53 RU: 36
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Page language: EN

Causes

  • Open or shorted wiring in IMRC control or sensor circuit
  • Poor or corroded connector/pin connection
  • Failed IMRC actuator (motor, vacuum solenoid or position sensor)
  • Mechanical binding from carbon buildup or broken linkage
  • Blown fuse or faulty relay supplying the IMRC
  • Faulty engine control module (rare)

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated
  • Reduced low- or mid-range power and torque
  • Rough idle or hesitation at certain RPM ranges
  • Poor throttle response or decreased fuel economy
  • Unusual intake or actuator noises or clicking
  • Codes related to intake runner position or performance

What to check

  • Scan for P1520 and any related codes; record freeze-frame data
  • Visual inspection of IMRC actuator, linkage and intake for carbon build-up or damage
  • Inspect connector pins for corrosion, bent pins, or water intrusion
  • Check fuse(s) and relay(s) supplying IMRC circuit
  • Backprobe connector, verify power and ground with key on
  • Use a scan tool to command IMRC and observe movement and PID data

Signal parameters

  • Control type varies by application: low-side (ground) switch, high-side (12 V) switch, or PWM control from ECM
  • Expected control voltage: typically 0 V (off) and ~12 V (on) on supply line; control line may be 0–12 V or PWM
  • PWM frequency (when used) typically tens to a few hundred Hz; duty cycle varies with commanded position
  • Position sensor (if fitted) usually a variable voltage 0.5–4.5 V signal proportional to runner position
  • Actuator resistance: typical DC motor will measure low ohms to tens of ohms; solenoids tens to a few hundred ohms (refer to vehicle service data)

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Retrieve freeze-frame and live data with a scan tool; note IMRC PID, commanded vs actual position.
  2. Perform a visual inspection of the intake runners, actuator, linkage and wiring for damage or carbon deposits.
  3. With key on (engine off), backprobe the actuator connector: verify battery power on the supply terminal, a good ground, and any control signal from the ECM.
  4. Command the IMRC on/off or vary position using the scan tool while observing movement and voltage changes at the connector.
  5. If no actuator movement but correct control signal present, disconnect actuator and apply fused 12 V (or ground, as appropriate) briefly to verify mechanical operation. Do not apply voltage if specification prohibits it.
  6. Measure actuator (motor/solenoid) resistance and compare to spec. Check continuity from actuator terminals to the ECM pins; repair any opens or shorts.
  7. Inspect and test any IMRC position sensor output voltage while moving the mechanism; replace sensor if signal is out of range or erratic.
  8. If actuator is mechanically stuck, remove and inspect for carbon blocking or broken parts; clean or replace parts as required.
  9. Repair wiring/connectors as needed, clear codes, and road-test to confirm proper operation. If ECM output is absent and wiring is good, consider ECM diagnosis/replacement per manufacturer procedures.
  10. Review manufacturer service bulletins and wiring diagrams for model-specific tests and specifications.

Likely causes

  • Broken/chafed wire harness to IMRC actuator
  • Loose or corroded connector at actuator or ECM
  • Failed IMRC motor or vacuum solenoid
  • Intake carbon deposits preventing runner movement
  • Ground open or intermittent contact
  • Intermittent ECU output or damaged ECU pin

Fault status

⚠️ Status
Intake Manifold Runner Control Circuit Malfunction detected by ECU; electrical fault or incorrect feedback in IMRC circuit.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1.0 - 3.0 hours

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