P0246 Fault Code

Turbocharger Wastegate Solenoid A High

• What does that mean?
• Symptoms
• Causes
• Solutions

The P0246 fault code indicates a problem with the turbocharger wastegate solenoid A circuit. The wastegate solenoid is responsible for controlling the amount of boost that the turbocharger provides to the engine. When this circuit is operating at a higher than expected voltage, it can cause the wastegate to remain open or closed. This can result in poor engine performance, decreased power, and reduced fuel economy.

The most common cause of this issue is a faulty wastegate solenoid or damaged wiring in the solenoid circuit. In some cases, the problem may be caused by a failed turbocharger actuator or a clogged catalytic converter.

To diagnose the issue, a mechanic will typically use a scan tool to check for fault codes and perform a visual inspection of the wastegate solenoid and associated wiring. The solenoid may need to be replaced, or wiring repairs may need to be made to resolve the issue.

Ignoring this fault code can lead to significant problems with engine performance and increased fuel consumption. It is recommended to have the issue addressed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to avoid expensive repairs later on.

What are the symptoms of the P0246 code?

The P0246 fault code indicates that there is a high voltage signal being sent to the turbocharger wastegate solenoid A. This means that the solenoid is not functioning properly, which can cause a number of symptoms such as:

• Decreased acceleration/power
• Difficulty starting the vehicle
• Engine stalling
• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Illumination of the check engine light

If you experience any combination of these symptoms, it is important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue causing the P0246 fault code.

What causes the P0246 code?

P0246 fault code is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects a high voltage reading in the turbocharger wastegate solenoid circuit A. This can be caused by a number of factors, including a defective wastegate solenoid, a faulty wiring connection or harness, or a damaged or clogged wastegate valve. It can also be caused by a malfunction in the ECM itself. This error can affect the performance of the turbocharger and lead to reduced engine power and increased fuel consumption. It is recommended to have the vehicle diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible by a qualified mechanic.

How to fix P0246?

The P0246 fault code indicates a problem with the turbocharger wastegate solenoid A circuit, specifically that the circuit is reading a high voltage signal when it should be in the low voltage range. This typically indicates a problem with the solenoid itself or the wiring leading to it.

Here are some of the steps you can take to fix the issue:

1. Check the wiring and connectors: Inspect the wiring and connectors for any visible damage or wear, as well as loose or corroded connections. Repair or replace any damaged wiring or connectors.

2. Test the wastegate solenoid: Use a multimeter to test the solenoid for proper operation. If the solenoid is faulty, replace it.

3. Check for a clogged wastegate: A clogged wastegate can cause high voltage readings on the solenoid circuit. If the solenoid and wiring are fine, check the wastegate for blockages and clear any that you find.

4. Inspect the turbocharger: A faulty turbocharger can also cause high voltage readings on the wastegate solenoid circuit. Inspect the turbocharger for any visible damage or wear, and repair or replace as necessary.

5. Clear the fault code: Once you have fixed the underlying problem, use an OBD-II scanner to clear the fault code. If the problem persists, the scanner will show the fault code again.

If these steps do not fix the issue, it may be necessary to seek assistance from a professional mechanic with experience in turbocharger systems.