P0047
Fix within a few daysThe engine computer detects a low voltage condition in the circuit for your turbocharger or supercharger boost control solenoid.
Code P0047 means your turbo/supercharger boost control solenoid circuit has low voltage. Common causes: Faulty boost control solenoid (80%), wiring issues (15%). Drivability: Limit driving, fix within a few days. Repair cost: $50-$250 DIY, $150-$550 professional.
Can I Drive With P0047?
Yes, for short trips only
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration. Expect reduced power.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, loud noises from the engine or turbo, burning smell, significant power loss beyond initial symptoms
Symptoms of P0047
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Reduced engine power or 'limp mode'
- 3Poor acceleration
- 4Engine may feel sluggish or unresponsive
Common Causes of P0047
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The solenoid itself has failed internally, causing the low voltage condition in its control circuit.
80% of P0047 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring or a faulty connector prevents proper voltage from reaching the solenoid.
15% of P0047 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
A rare internal fault within the engine computer can cause it to incorrectly report a low voltage condition or fail to supply proper voltage.
5% of P0047 cases are fixed by replacing the ECM/PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the wiring harness and connector leading to the boost control solenoid for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion. Ensure the connector is securely seated.
How to Diagnose P0047
- 1Visually inspect the boost control solenoid's wiring harness and connector for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 2Using a multimeter, check for proper voltage supply to the boost control solenoid connector with the ignition on.
- 3Test the resistance of the boost control solenoid itself using a multimeter; compare to factory specifications.
- 4If voltage and resistance are correct, use a scan tool to command the solenoid on and off to check for mechanical operation (if possible).
- 5If all other checks pass, consider further diagnostics of the ECM/PCM, though this is highly unlikely.
P0047 on Popular Vehicles
Subaru WRX/STI
2002-2024Subaru's Electronic Boost Control Solenoid (EBCS) is a common failure point, leading to P0047. The solenoid can become clogged or fail electrically.
85% fixed by replacing the EBCS
Ford F-150 EcoBoost
2011-2024Ford EcoBoost engines can experience P0047 due to issues with the turbocharger wastegate solenoid. Wiring harness chafing near the solenoid is also a known issue.
75% fixed by replacing the solenoid, 15% by wiring repair
Volkswagen GTI
2006-2024VW GTI models with turbochargers can trigger P0047 from a faulty N75 valve (boost pressure control valve). These valves can fail internally, causing incorrect boost regulation.
80% fixed by replacing the N75 valve
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0047 mean?
P0047 indicates that your vehicle's engine computer has detected a low voltage condition in the electrical circuit that controls the turbocharger or supercharger boost control solenoid. This solenoid regulates the boost pressure your engine produces.
Can I drive with P0047?
Yes, for short trips only. Your vehicle will likely have reduced power and may be in 'limp mode' to protect the engine. Driving for extended periods with this code can lead to further damage to the turbocharger or engine components due to incorrect boost pressure.
Will P0047 clear itself?
No, P0047 will not clear itself. The underlying electrical or mechanical fault needs to be diagnosed and repaired. Once the repair is complete, you will need to clear the code with an OBD-II scan tool.
How do I fix P0047 myself?
Start by inspecting the wiring and connector to your boost control solenoid for any visible damage or corrosion. If the wiring is good, test the solenoid's resistance with a multimeter. If the solenoid is faulty, replacing it is a common DIY fix. Ensure you have the correct part for your specific vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0047?
The cost to fix P0047 yourself is typically $50-$250 for the boost control solenoid part. If you take it to a professional shop, expect to pay $150-$550, which includes parts and 1-2 hours of labor.
P0047 keeps coming back - why?
If P0047 keeps returning, it means the root cause was not fully addressed. Common reasons include a faulty replacement solenoid, a persistent wiring issue that was not properly repaired, or a rare underlying problem with the engine computer (ECM/PCM).
Will P0047 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0047 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 a boost control issue directly impacts engine performance and emissions.
What's the difference between P0047 and P0046?
P0047 indicates a 'low' circuit condition for the boost control solenoid, meaning the voltage is too low. P0046 indicates a 'high' circuit condition, meaning the voltage is too high or there's an open circuit. Both point to an issue with the solenoid's electrical circuit, but the specific fault is different.
P0047 on Subaru WRX?
P0047 is a common code on turbocharged Subaru WRX and Forester XT models. The boost control solenoid (often called the EBCS or wastegate solenoid) is a known failure point. Inspecting and replacing this solenoid is a frequent fix for this code on these vehicles.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you test 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 a faulty solenoid.
What voltage did you find at the boost control solenoid connector with the ignition on?
Good answer: I found [X volts] at the connector, which is lower than the expected battery voltage, suggesting a wiring issue or a problem with the power supply circuit.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$250
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$550
Save $100-$300 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate - requires a multimeter and some understanding of electrical testing and turbocharger components. Access to the solenoid can vary by vehicle.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0047 can lead to prolonged driving with incorrect boost pressure. This can cause premature wear or failure of your turbocharger ($800-$2,500 repair) or even lead to engine damage from over-boosting or under-boosting, turning a $100 solenoid fix into a multi-thousand dollar engine repair.
While You're In There...
Many boost control solenoids rely on vacuum lines. If you're accessing the solenoid, inspect all nearby vacuum lines for cracks or leaks, as they can cause similar boost issues.
While not a direct cause of P0047, a faulty boost sensor can sometimes provide misleading readings. It's worth inspecting its connector and wiring if you're already in the area.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool
- Multimeter
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Wire strippers/crimpers (if wiring repair is needed)
P0047 is a common code on turbocharged vehicles. Most repairs involve replacing a relatively inexpensive solenoid, restoring full power and preventing further damage.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Perform a thorough visual inspection of the boost control solenoid's wiring and connector. Look for cuts, chafing, corrosion, or loose pins. Repair any damage found.
Step 2: If the wiring looks good, use a multimeter to test the voltage supply to the solenoid and the solenoid's internal resistance. Compare your readings to your vehicle's service manual specifications.
Step 3: If the solenoid tests faulty, replace it. If the wiring is damaged, repair it. If both test good, further diagnosis of the ECM/PCM or other related components may be necessary, but this is rare.