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1997 FORD EXPLORER
5.0L V8•AWD•AUTOMATIC•gas
12 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
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Repairs0Labor547Torque3672Fluid9DTC683Battery1Maintenance0Recalls12
P1518moderate severityPowertrain

Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Closed

on 1997 Ford Explorer 5.0L V8 · AWD

What this code means

The Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) is stuck in the closed position. The IMRC system varies the intake manifold runner length or opening to optimize airflow at different RPMs.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light
  • Reduced high-RPM power
  • Poor acceleration above 3000 RPM
  • Engine feels sluggish at high speed

Common causes

  • Stuck IMRC actuator
  • Broken IMRC linkage
  • Carbon buildup on IMRC plates
  • Faulty IMRC solenoid
  • Vacuum hose leak to IMRC actuator

Diagnostic steps

  1. Inspect IMRC actuator for free movement
  2. Check IMRC linkage for breakage
  3. Inspect vacuum supply to IMRC actuator
  4. Clean IMRC plates if carboned up
  5. Test IMRC solenoid

Repair notes

Free or replace stuck IMRC actuator. Repair broken linkage. Clean carbon from plates.

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Other Powertrain codes on this vehicle

🔧 Database maintained under the daily editorial review of Chris Hackleman · Master Technician · 20+ years and Jeff Moore · Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years. Spot an error? Use the Help link above — a human reads every report.
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