P1518 on Ford
Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open
P1518 on Ford vehicles indicates intake manifold runner control stuck open. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Ford model — most commonly on Contour. This manufacturer-specific code (common on Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury) indicates the intake manifold runner control (IMRC) is stuck in the open position. The IMRC uses butterfly plates in the intake to change air-passage length and improve airflow across the rpm range; the computer commands them closed at lower rpm but here detects they remain open. When the system commands 'closed' but the monitor still reads 'open,' P1518 sets. The result is often weak low-end torque, rough idle, and reduced fuel economy. Typical repair costs on Ford range from $100 to $400, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P1518
- •Stuck or broken IMRC actuator
- •Seized or carbon-fouled runner butterfly plates
- •Broken or disconnected IMRC linkage
- •Open or shorted actuator wiring
- •Corroded or loose IMRC connector
- •Weak or broken return spring
- •Faulty PCM/ECM (rare)
P1518 on Ford by Model
Ford Contour(1 issue)
- IMRC Intake Manifold Runner Control Failure1998-2000
The 2.5L Duratec V6 in the Contour SVT and some base models uses intake manifold runner control (IMRC) butterflies that seize or break due to carbon buildup. This causes a noticeable loss of mid-range power and a check engine light.
Looking for P1518 on a different make?
View P1518 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P1518 mean on Ford?▼
P1518 stands for "Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open." This manufacturer-specific code (common on Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury) indicates the intake manifold runner control (IMRC) is stuck in the open position. The IMRC uses butterfly plates in the intake to change air-passage length and improve airflow across the rpm range; the computer commands them closed at lower rpm but here detects they remain open. When the system commands 'closed' but the monitor still reads 'open,' P1518 sets. The result is often weak low-end torque, rough idle, and reduced fuel economy. On Ford specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P1518 on Ford vehicles?▼
Common causes on Ford: Stuck or broken IMRC actuator, Seized or carbon-fouled runner butterfly plates, Broken or disconnected IMRC linkage, Open or shorted actuator wiring, Corroded or loose IMRC connector. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P1518 on a Ford?▼
Repair costs on Ford range from $100 to $400, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Ford models have P1518 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P1518 on 1 Ford model: Contour.