P0246
Fix within a few daysThe engine computer detects a high voltage signal or an open circuit in the control circuit for the turbocharger or supercharger wastegate solenoid 'A'. This means the wastegate isn't being controlled correctly.
Code P0246 means your engine computer detects a high signal from the turbo/supercharger wastegate solenoid. Common causes: Faulty wastegate solenoid (60%), wiring issues (30%). Drivability: Limit driving, fix within a few days. Repair cost: $50-$250 DIY, $150-$600 professional.
Can I Drive With P0246?
Limit driving, fix within a few days
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration. Do not drive if the engine is making loud noises or if power loss is severe.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, loud engine noises, significant power loss, burning smell, or rotten egg smell from the exhaust.
Symptoms of P0246
- 1Reduced engine power or 'limp mode'
- 2Check Engine Light is on
- 3Engine hesitates or stumbles under acceleration
- 4Unusual whistling or hissing noises from the engine bay
- 5Poor fuel economy
Common Causes of P0246
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The solenoid itself has failed internally, causing a high resistance or open circuit, which the PCM interprets as a high voltage signal.
60% of P0246 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or disconnected wiring or a faulty connector to the wastegate solenoid can cause an open circuit or short to voltage, leading to a high signal.
30% of P0246 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
If the solenoid controls vacuum to an actuator, a broken or disconnected vacuum line, or a stuck wastegate actuator, can prevent proper wastegate movement, causing the PCM to detect an incorrect solenoid state.
8% of P0246 cases are fixed by addressing vacuum or actuator issues
An internal fault within the engine computer's driver circuit for the wastegate solenoid can cause it to send an incorrect high voltage signal.
2% of P0246 cases are fixed by replacing the ECM/PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the wastegate solenoid's electrical connector for looseness or corrosion.
- Check all visible vacuum lines (if applicable) for cracks, disconnections, or kinks.
- Ensure the wastegate actuator arm moves freely by hand (with the engine off and cool).
How to Diagnose P0246
- 1Visually inspect the wastegate solenoid 'A' and its electrical connector for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 2Check the wiring harness leading to the solenoid for any signs of fraying, cuts, or pinches.
- 3If applicable, inspect all vacuum lines connected to the wastegate actuator and solenoid for cracks, disconnections, or leaks.
- 4Using a multimeter, test the resistance of the wastegate solenoid. Compare it to factory specifications (usually found in a service manual).
- 5Check for proper voltage supply and ground at the wastegate solenoid connector using a multimeter.
- 6If you have a scan tool, command the wastegate solenoid on and off to verify its operation and listen for a click.
- 7If all other components check out, further diagnosis of the ECM/PCM may be necessary by a qualified technician.
P0246 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2011-2024EcoBoost engines are prone to wastegate solenoid and actuator issues due to heat and vibration. Check vacuum lines carefully.
70% fixed by replacing the solenoid or actuator
Subaru WRX
2002-2024Subaru's boost control solenoids (BCS) are known to fail, leading to P0246 or similar boost-related codes. Wiring to the BCS can also become brittle.
65% fixed by replacing the boost control solenoid
Volkswagen/Audi
2006-20242.0T engines often experience issues with the N75 wastegate bypass regulator valve (solenoid) or its associated wiring. Vacuum leaks are also a factor.
75% fixed by replacing the N75 valve or repairing wiring
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0246 mean?
P0246 indicates that your vehicle's engine computer has detected a high voltage signal or an open circuit in the control circuit for the turbocharger or supercharger wastegate solenoid 'A'. This prevents the wastegate from being controlled properly.
Can I drive with P0246?
Limit driving, fix within a few days. Driving with P0246 can lead to significant power loss or, more critically, overboost conditions that can damage your turbocharger, engine internals, or catalytic converter. Avoid long trips or heavy acceleration.
Will P0246 clear itself?
No, P0246 will not clear itself. The underlying electrical or mechanical fault must be diagnosed and repaired. The Check Engine Light will remain on until the issue is resolved and the code is cleared, either manually or after several drive cycles once the fault is gone.
How do I fix P0246 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the wastegate solenoid and its wiring for damage. If the wiring looks good, test the solenoid's resistance with a multimeter. If the solenoid is faulty, replacing it is a common fix. Ensure all vacuum lines (if present) are connected and intact.
How much does it cost to fix P0246?
DIY repair costs for P0246 typically range from $50 to $250, primarily for a new wastegate solenoid. Professional repair at a shop will cost between $150 and $600, covering parts and labor.
P0246 keeps coming back - why?
If P0246 keeps returning, it often means the initial diagnosis missed the root cause. This could be due to intermittent wiring issues, a faulty wastegate actuator (if separate from the solenoid), or a rare internal problem with the engine computer itself.
Will P0246 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0246 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. A Check Engine Light illuminated for any reason, including P0246, is an automatic failure in states with such inspections.
What's the difference between P0246 and P0245?
P0246 indicates a 'high' signal or open circuit in the wastegate solenoid 'A' control circuit, meaning the PCM sees too much voltage or no connection. P0245 indicates a 'low' signal or short to ground in the same circuit, meaning the PCM sees too little voltage.
P0246 on Ford F-150 EcoBoost
On Ford F-150 EcoBoost engines, P0246 is often linked to a faulty wastegate solenoid or issues with the vacuum lines and wastegate actuator. These components are critical for proper turbocharger boost control and are common failure points.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you test the resistance of the wastegate solenoid and compare it to factory specifications?
Good answer: Yes, the solenoid's resistance was X ohms, and the factory spec is Y ohms. It's out of range, indicating a fault.
Have you inspected the wiring harness and connector for any signs of damage or corrosion?
Good answer: Yes, I checked the harness from the PCM to the solenoid. There's no visible damage, and continuity is good, but the connector pins were slightly corroded, which I cleaned.
Did you check for proper vacuum supply to the wastegate actuator and solenoid?
Good answer: Yes, I checked the vacuum lines for leaks and confirmed the actuator moves freely when vacuum is applied. The issue is definitely electrical with the solenoid itself.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$250
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$600
Save $100-$350 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate - requires a multimeter for testing and potentially a scan tool for commanding the solenoid. Access to the solenoid can be challenging on some vehicles.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0246 can lead to severe engine damage. If the wastegate is stuck closed, it causes overboost, which can destroy your turbocharger ($800-$2,500 repair), damage pistons, or overheat your catalytic converter ($1,200-$2,500 replacement). A $150 solenoid fix now prevents a multi-thousand dollar bill later.
While You're In There...
If the solenoid uses vacuum, these hoses can become brittle and crack over time, causing leaks that mimic or contribute to solenoid issues. Replacing them during solenoid access is smart.
While not a direct cause of P0246, a faulty boost sensor can sometimes provide incorrect readings, leading to perceived wastegate issues. It's often located nearby and worth inspecting.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II scan tool
- Multimeter
- Socket set
- Wrench set
- Screwdriver set
- Wire strippers/crimpers (if wiring repair is needed)
- Vacuum pump/gauge (if checking vacuum lines)
P0246 points to a specific component in your turbo system. While it's a high-priority fix, replacing the wastegate solenoid is a common repair that will restore your engine's power and efficiency.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Perform a thorough visual inspection of the wastegate solenoid, its electrical connector, and all associated wiring and vacuum lines for any obvious damage or disconnections.
Step 2: If the visual inspection doesn't reveal the issue, use a multimeter to test the resistance of the wastegate solenoid and check for proper voltage at its connector. Compare readings to your vehicle's service manual.
Step 3: If the solenoid tests faulty, replace the wastegate solenoid. If wiring is damaged, repair it. If vacuum lines are cracked, replace them. Clear the code and test drive the vehicle.