P0246: Turbocharger Wastegate Solenoid A High
Can you still drive? Not recommended if the engine is overboosting. Excessive boost pressure can cause serious engine damage including blown head gaskets.
What Does P0246 Mean?
Code P0246 is triggered when the ECM detects a high voltage condition in the turbocharger wastegate solenoid circuit. This usually indicates a short to power in the wiring or an internally shorted solenoid. The condition may cause the wastegate to remain closed, leading to overboosting.
Need to read your codes?
An OBD-II scanner lets you read and clear diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle's computer. Most scanners work with any car made after 1996.
Browse OBD-II Scanners on AmazonCommon Causes
- Short to voltage in solenoid wiring
- Internally shorted wastegate solenoid
- Damaged wiring harness near turbo
- Faulty ECM driver circuit
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Overboost condition
- Vehicle enters limp mode
- Rough running under load
- Audible turbo surge
Diagnostic Steps
- 1Check wastegate solenoid wiring for shorts to power
- 2Measure solenoid circuit voltage with key on, engine off
- 3Disconnect solenoid and check if code persists
- 4Inspect harness routing near hot exhaust components
- 5Test ECM driver output if wiring checks out
Recommended Parts & Tools
wastegate solenoid
wiring harness repair kit
Estimated Repair Cost
| Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Total Repair Cost Range | $100 - $600 |
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Chat with AI About P0246Commonly Affected Vehicles
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can a high wastegate solenoid circuit cause overboost?
Yes, if the solenoid stays energized, the wastegate may remain closed, allowing the turbo to build excessive boost pressure.
Could heat damage cause P0246?
Absolutely. Wiring near the turbo is exposed to extreme heat, which can melt insulation and cause shorts.
Community Fix Reports
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