Turbocharger Wastegate Solenoid A High
P0246 indicates the PCM detected a high voltage condition on the wastegate/boost pressure control solenoid A circuit. This solenoid regulates turbocharger boost pressure, and the fault prevents proper boost control, reducing engine power output.
What You Might Notice
- Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine) illuminated
- Lack of engine power or reduced acceleration
- Instrument cluster warning message displayed
- Possible turbocharger boost underperformance
- Rough idle or hesitation during acceleration
Most Common Causes
- 1
Open ground circuit
An open or poor ground connection between the wastegate solenoid and the PCM prevents proper circuit completion, causing the PCM to detect a high voltage fault.
- 2
Short to power in control circuit
The solenoid control wire may be shorted directly to the positive power supply, causing the PCM to read an abnormally high voltage signal.
- 3
Open power supply circuit
A break in the power supply line to the solenoid can cause the PCM to misinterpret the circuit voltage as high when attempting to energize the solenoid.
- 4
Faulty wastegate solenoid
An internal solenoid failure or resistance problem can create abnormal voltage readings that trigger the high voltage fault code.
How to Diagnose It
- 1
Check Open ground circuit — An open or poor ground connection between the wastegate solenoid and the PCM prevents proper circuit completion, causing the PCM to detect a high voltage fault.
- 2
Check Short to power in control circuit — The solenoid control wire may be shorted directly to the positive power supply, causing the PCM to read an abnormally high voltage signal.
- 3
Check Open power supply circuit — A break in the power supply line to the solenoid can cause the PCM to misinterpret the circuit voltage as high when attempting to energize the solenoid.
- 4
Check Faulty wastegate solenoid — An internal solenoid failure or resistance problem can create abnormal voltage readings that trigger the high voltage fault code.
How to Fix It
- 1
Inspect and repair solenoid wiring
Visually inspect the wiring harness between the PCM and wastegate solenoid for damaged insulation, corrosion, or loose connections. Repair or replace damaged wiring as needed.
- 2
Check solenoid ground connection
Test the ground connection at the solenoid and PCM using a multimeter. Clean corroded ground points and re-secure any loose ground bolts to ensure proper electrical continuity.
- 3
Replace wastegate solenoid
If wiring and connections are intact, the solenoid itself is likely faulty. Remove and replace the wastegate/boost pressure control solenoid A with an OEM or quality replacement.
- 4
Clear code and test drive
After repairs, use a diagnostic scanner to clear the fault code and perform a test drive to verify the issue is resolved and boost pressure returns to normal operation.
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