P0044
Fix within a few daysYour engine's computer detects an electrical problem with the turbocharger or supercharger boost control solenoid circuit. This means the circuit is showing a higher voltage than expected or is open.
Code P0044 means your engine's computer detected an electrical fault in the turbo/supercharger boost control solenoid circuit. Common causes: Faulty boost control solenoid (70%), wiring issues (25%). Drivability: Limit driving, fix within a few days. Repair cost: $100-$300 DIY, $200-$600 professional.
Can I Drive With P0044?
Limit driving, fix within a few days
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration. Expect reduced power.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, loud whistling/hissing noises, significant power loss, or engine stalling.
Symptoms of P0044
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Reduced engine power or 'limp mode'
- 3Engine hesitates during acceleration
- 4Turbocharger not boosting correctly (lack of power)
- 5Engine may run rough or stall
Common Causes of P0044
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The solenoid itself has an internal electrical fault, causing the circuit to read high voltage or be open.
70% of P0044 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or open wiring in the harness leading to the boost control solenoid causes an incorrect electrical signal.
25% of P0044 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
An internal fault within the engine's computer can incorrectly interpret or send signals to the boost control solenoid.
5% of P0044 cases are fixed by replacing the ECM/PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the boost control solenoid's electrical connector for any looseness, corrosion, or damage.
- Check the wiring harness for any obvious signs of damage, such as cuts, chafing, or pinches, especially where it runs near hot engine components.
How to Diagnose P0044
- 1Visually inspect the boost control solenoid and its electrical connector for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 2Check the wiring harness leading to the solenoid for any signs of fraying, cuts, or pinches.
- 3Using a multimeter, test the resistance of the boost control solenoid. Compare to factory specifications.
- 4With the engine off, check for continuity in the wiring harness between the solenoid connector and the ECM/PCM.
- 5If possible with a scan tool, command the solenoid on and off to check for proper operation and listen for a click.
P0044 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2011-2024Common on EcoBoost engines. The wastegate solenoid can fail due to heat exposure. Also check for brittle or cracked vacuum lines leading to the wastegate actuator.
75% fixed by replacing the solenoid or vacuum lines
Honda Civic
2016-2024For turbocharged Civic models, P0044 can point to the turbocharger wastegate control solenoid. Inspect the electrical connector for corrosion, especially if exposed to road salt or moisture.
70% fixed by replacing the solenoid
Chevrolet Silverado
2019-2024On turbocharged Silverado models, P0044 can occur due to a faulty turbocharger wastegate solenoid or issues with its electrical connector. Ensure the connector is fully seated and free of debris.
65% fixed by replacing the solenoid
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0044 mean?
P0044 indicates the engine's computer has detected a high voltage or an open circuit in the electrical system for the turbocharger or supercharger boost control solenoid.
Can I drive with P0044?
Limit driving, fix within a few days. Driving with this code can lead to reduced power and potentially cause further damage to your turbocharger or engine if boost pressure is unregulated.
Will P0044 clear itself?
No, P0044 will not clear itself. The underlying electrical fault needs to be diagnosed and repaired. The Check Engine Light will remain on until the issue is resolved and the code is cleared.
How do I fix P0044 myself?
Start by inspecting the boost control solenoid's wiring and connector for damage. If the wiring is good, test the solenoid's resistance with a multimeter. If it's out of spec, replacing the boost control solenoid is the most common fix.
How much does it cost to fix P0044?
A DIY repair for P0044 typically costs $100-$300 for the boost control solenoid. Professional repair at a shop will cost $200-$600, including parts and labor.
P0044 keeps coming back - why?
If P0044 keeps returning, it means the initial repair did not address the root cause. This often points to a persistent wiring issue, a faulty connector, or in rare cases, an ECM/PCM problem that was overlooked.
Will P0044 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0044 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure in most jurisdictions, and an issue with boost control can affect exhaust emissions.
What's the difference between P0044 and P0045?
P0044 indicates a 'high circuit' or open circuit condition in the boost control solenoid, meaning the voltage is too high or there's a break. P0045 indicates an 'open circuit' specifically, which is a complete break in the circuit, often leading to a high circuit reading.
P0044 on Ford F-150 EcoBoost
On Ford F-150 EcoBoost engines, P0044 is often related to the turbocharger wastegate solenoid. These solenoids can fail due to heat or internal electrical issues, leading to incorrect boost control. Inspect the vacuum lines to the wastegate actuator as well.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the resistance of the boost control solenoid and compare it to factory specifications?
Good answer: Yes, I measured the resistance at [X ohms] and it was outside the specified range of [Y-Z ohms], indicating an internal fault with the solenoid.
What did you find when you inspected the wiring harness and connector for the boost control solenoid?
Good answer: I found a corroded pin in the connector, which was causing an intermittent open circuit. I repaired the connector and the code cleared.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$100-$300
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$200-$600
Save $100-$300 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate - requires basic hand tools, a multimeter for testing, and potentially an OBD-II scan tool to clear the code and monitor live data.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0044 can lead to uncontrolled boost pressure, which can damage your turbocharger ($1,000-$3,000 repair), engine components, or catalytic converter ($800-$2,500 repair). A $100-$300 solenoid replacement now prevents a much larger bill later.
While You're In There...
If your boost control system uses vacuum lines, they can become brittle and crack over time, leading to boost control issues. Replacing them while accessing the solenoid prevents future problems.
If the solenoid is located near the turbocharger inlet, inspecting and potentially replacing these seals can prevent future boost leaks, as they are often exposed to similar heat cycles.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool
- Multimeter
- Socket Set
- Screwdriver Set
- Wire Strippers/Crimpers (if wiring repair needed)
P0044 is a common turbocharger system code. Most repairs involve replacing an accessible solenoid or fixing a simple wiring issue, getting your engine back to full power quickly.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Visually inspect the boost control solenoid, its connector, and the wiring harness for any obvious damage or corrosion. Ensure the connector is fully seated.
Step 2: If the visual inspection doesn't reveal the problem, use a multimeter to test the resistance of the boost control solenoid. Compare the reading to your vehicle's service manual specifications.
Step 3: If the solenoid's resistance is out of spec, or if you find damaged wiring, replace the faulty component. The boost control solenoid is the most common culprit for P0044.