P0505 on Volvo: How to Diagnose & Fix
Idle Air Control System Malfunction
2 Volvo models · 2 documented issues · $100-$600 repair
P0505 on Volvo by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Volvo XC60 with the 3.0L and 3.2L inline-6 engines develops oil trap (PCV separator) failures. The oil trap membrane degrades, causing excessive oil consumption, rough idle, and oil leaks from pressurized seals.
Common Symptoms
- Increased oil consumption
- Rough idle
- Check engine light
- Oil leaks from seals
- Whistling from engine area
How to Fix
Diagnose the PCV/oil trap system by checking for excessive crankcase vacuum or pressure at the oil filler cap, listening for a whistling diaphragm, and inspecting for oil seepage at the cam, crank, and valve cover seals; scan for lean-mixture or idle-related faults as supporting evidence. Repair typically requires replacing the oil trap/PCV separator assembly and breather hoses, and on the 3.0L/3.2L SI6 this often involves removing the intake manifold for access; any failed seals fouled by crankcase pressure should be replaced at the same time. After repair, clear fault codes, verify normal crankcase pressure, and confirm idle quality and oil leaks are resolved. Typical independent-shop cost is about $700-$1,400 depending on hose/seal replacement, with dealer pricing often higher.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- OEM Volvo 31319642 XC60 3.2 oil-trap/PCV assembly
replace a diagnosed failed 3.2L oil-trap/PCV assembly with its included gasket Fitment/availability: 2010-2015 Volvo XC60 3.2L six-cylinder non-turbo using OE 31319642; excludes 3.0L T6 Fitment/availability: Low inventory with Add to Car…
- Genuine Volvo 31319643KT XC60 T6 oil-trap kit
replace the diagnosed failed T6 oil separator with the supplied installation clamp Fitment/availability: 2010-2015 Volvo XC60 T6 3.0L SI6 B6304T2/B6304T4 branch using 31319643; excludes 3.2L non-turbo Fitment/availability: In stock with …
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Sources for this issue (1)
The Volvo S70 turbo and non-turbo 5-cylinder engines develop PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system blockage. The breather box/flame trap clogs, causing excessive crankcase pressure that pushes oil past gaskets and seals.
Common Symptoms
- Oil leaks from valve cover
- Oil consumption increase
- Oil residue around turbo
- Whistling noise from engine
- Rough idle
How to Fix
Diagnose the PCV system by checking for excessive crankcase pressure at the oil filler cap or dipstick tube, then inspect the breather box/oil trap, flame trap fittings, and all related vacuum hoses under the intake manifold for sludge blockage or collapse. The proper repair is a full PCV service kit installation—typically replacing the oil trap, banjo fittings, hoses, intake manifold gasket, and cleaning the ports in the block and manifold; on turbo models, also inspect and clean the turbo oil return area and replace any leaking cam, valve cover, or rear main seals only after crankcase ventilation is restored. If oil leaks have been present for a while, recheck for residual seepage after the PCV repair before replacing seals unnecessarily. Typical cost is about $250-$450 in parts and 4-7 labor hours, for a total of roughly $700-$1,400 depending on engine configuration and how many oil leaks need follow-up repair.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- IPD 124712 early P80 turbo PCV breather system kit
complete oil-trap and breather-hose service for the 1998 turbo branch Fitment/availability: 1998 Volvo S70 GLT/T5 turbo P80 with ME4.4; includes alternate inlet elbow for the early or revised turbo inlet tube Fitment/availability: In sto…
- Genuine Volvo 114832 1998 non-turbo PCV breather system kit
complete PCV service for the distinct 1998 non-turbo routing Fitment/availability: 1998 Volvo S70 non-turbo B5254FS P80 with ME4.4, automatic or manual Fitment/availability: In stock with Add to Cart live when reviewed
- Genuine Volvo V70T100 late P80 turbo PCV breather system kit
complete PCV service for the 1999-2000 turbo configuration Fitment/availability: 1999-2000 Volvo S70 turbo P80 branch; validate the exact VIN, engine and installed routing before ordering Fitment/availability: In stock with Add to Cart a…
- Genuine Volvo KIT-516300 late P80 non-turbo PCV breather system kit
complete PCV service for the 1999-2000 non-turbo configuration Fitment/availability: 1999-2000 Volvo S70 non-turbo P80 branch; validate VIN and installed hose routing before ordering Fitment/availability: In stock with Add to Cart and Bu…
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
P0505 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0505 mean on a Volvo?
P0505 stands for "Idle Air Control System Malfunction." P0505 indicates a malfunction in the idle air control (IAC) system, which manages how much air bypasses the throttle plate to keep the engine idling smoothly at the correct RPM. On older systems this is a dedicated IAC valve/motor; the computer uses it to raise idle for cold starts, A/C load, or accessory load. When the system can't maintain the target idle, you may get a high or low idle, surging, rough idle, or stalling — especially at stops or when cold. The cause is usually a dirty or failed IAC valve, but vacuum leaks and electrical faults are common too. On Volvo it is documented across 2 models: XC60, S70.
What are the most common causes of P0505?
The most common causes of P0505 are: Dirty or carbon-clogged idle air control valve, Failed IAC valve motor or stuck pintle, Vacuum leak in the intake system, Dirty throttle body or sticking throttle plate, Wiring or connector fault in the IAC circuit, Faulty PCV system causing unmetered air, PCM/ECM control fault. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0505 on a Volvo?
Published repair estimates on Volvo range from $100 to $600 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0505 on a different make?
View P0505 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.