P0249
Fix within a few daysYour engine computer detected a low voltage signal from the turbocharger or supercharger wastegate solenoid 'B' circuit, meaning the wastegate control is not functioning correctly.
Code P0249 means your wastegate solenoid "B" circuit has low voltage, affecting turbo boost. Common causes: Faulty solenoid (60%), wiring issues (25%), vacuum leaks (10%). Drivability: Yes, but with reduced power. Repair cost: $100-$300 DIY, $250-$700 professional.
Can I Drive With P0249?
Limit driving, fix within a few days
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, loud noises from the engine/turbo, burning smell, significant power loss making the vehicle unsafe to drive.
Symptoms of P0249
- 1Reduced engine power (vehicle may enter 'limp mode')
- 2Check Engine Light illuminated
- 3Engine feels sluggish or hesitant during acceleration
- 4Possible whistling or hissing noises from the turbocharger area
- 5Poor fuel economy
Common Causes of P0249
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The wastegate solenoid itself fails internally, preventing proper control of the wastegate actuator and leading to incorrect boost pressure.
60% of P0249 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring or connectors to the wastegate solenoid 'B' cause an incorrect voltage signal to the engine computer.
25% of P0249 cases are fixed by repairing wiring
A cracked, disconnected, or leaking vacuum line to the wastegate actuator or solenoid prevents proper vacuum control of the wastegate.
10% of P0249 cases are fixed by repairing vacuum lines
The engine computer itself has an internal fault, sending an incorrect signal or misinterpreting the solenoid's signal.
5% of P0249 cases are fixed by replacing the PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect all vacuum lines connected to the turbocharger, wastegate actuator, and wastegate solenoid for any cracks, disconnections, or signs of damage.
- Check the electrical connector at the wastegate solenoid 'B' for corrosion, bent pins, or loose connections.
How to Diagnose P0249
- 1Visually inspect all vacuum lines connected to the turbocharger, wastegate actuator, and wastegate solenoid for cracks, disconnections, or damage.
- 2Check the electrical connector and wiring harness for the wastegate solenoid 'B' for corrosion, damage, or loose pins.
- 3Using a multimeter, test for proper voltage supply and ground at the wastegate solenoid connector.
- 4Test the resistance of the wastegate solenoid 'B' itself and compare it to factory specifications.
- 5Apply vacuum directly to the wastegate actuator to ensure it moves freely and holds vacuum.
- 6If all electrical and vacuum checks pass, consider testing the solenoid's operation with a scan tool capable of active tests.
P0249 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2011-2020P0249 is common on EcoBoost engines. The wastegate solenoid and associated vacuum lines are known failure points due to heat exposure and vibration.
75% fixed by wastegate solenoid or vacuum line replacement
Chevrolet Silverado
2019-2024The 2.7L turbo engine can experience P0249 due to issues with the electronic wastegate actuator or its control solenoid.
65% fixed by wastegate solenoid replacement
Honda Civic
2016-2024On 1.5T engines, P0249 can occur due to a faulty wastegate control solenoid or issues with the vacuum lines that control the wastegate actuator.
70% fixed by wastegate solenoid or vacuum line replacement
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0249 mean?
P0249 indicates the engine computer detected a low voltage signal from the turbocharger/supercharger wastegate solenoid 'B' circuit, meaning the wastegate control is not functioning correctly.
Can I drive with P0249?
Yes, you can drive with P0249, but your vehicle will have significantly reduced power and may be in 'limp mode.' Avoid aggressive driving and fix it within a few days to prevent further issues.
Will P0249 clear itself?
No, P0249 will not clear itself. The engine computer stores this code until the underlying issue is resolved and the code is manually cleared with a scan tool, or after several drive cycles without the fault recurring.
How do I fix P0249 myself?
Start by inspecting vacuum lines and electrical connectors for damage. If they look good, test the wastegate solenoid 'B' for proper resistance and voltage. Replacing a faulty wastegate solenoid is a common DIY fix.
How much does it cost to fix P0249?
DIY repair costs range from $100-$300 for a new wastegate solenoid and basic tools. Professional repair costs typically range from $250-$700, including parts and labor.
P0249 keeps coming back - why?
If P0249 returns, it indicates the initial repair did not address the root cause. Double-check all wiring and vacuum lines, ensure the replacement solenoid is functioning correctly, or consider a deeper diagnostic for PCM issues.
Will P0249 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0249 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure in most jurisdictions.
What's the difference between P0249 and P0245?
P0249 specifically indicates a 'low' voltage condition for wastegate solenoid 'B', meaning the circuit voltage is too low. P0245 indicates a 'low' voltage condition for wastegate solenoid 'A'. They point to similar issues but on different circuits or solenoids if the vehicle has multiple.
P0249 on Ford F-150?
On Ford F-150s, especially EcoBoost models, P0249 often points to a faulty wastegate solenoid or a cracked vacuum line leading to the wastegate actuator. These components are exposed to heat and vibration, making them prone to failure.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you test the voltage and resistance of the wastegate solenoid 'B' circuit and the solenoid itself?
Good answer: Yes, I confirmed the solenoid's resistance is out of spec, and the voltage supply to the connector is correct. This points directly to an internal solenoid failure.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$100-$300
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$250-$700
Save $150-$400 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate. While replacing the solenoid can be straightforward, diagnosing the exact cause (solenoid, wiring, vacuum) requires specific tools and a good understanding of turbo systems.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0249 means your engine runs with incorrect boost pressure. This leads to reduced power, poor fuel economy, and can put undue stress on other engine components, potentially leading to premature turbocharger failure ($1,000-$3,000 repair) or catalytic converter damage from rich running conditions ($800-$2,500 repair). A $200 solenoid fix now prevents a $2,000+ bill later.
While You're In There...
These lines often degrade from heat and age, causing leaks that mimic solenoid issues. Replacing them during solenoid access prevents future vacuum-related codes.
A faulty boost sensor can send incorrect readings to the PCM, leading to wastegate control issues. It's often in the same area and worth checking if the solenoid doesn't fix it.
Tools You'll Need
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Multimeter
- Vacuum pump (for testing actuator/lines)
- Scan tool (to clear codes and monitor live data)
P0249 is a common turbo system code. Most repairs involve replacing a relatively inexpensive solenoid or fixing a vacuum leak, restoring your engine's full power.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Check all vacuum lines and electrical connectors around the turbocharger and wastegate solenoid 'B' for any obvious damage or disconnections.
Step 2: If visual inspection doesn't reveal the issue, use a multimeter to test the wastegate solenoid 'B' for proper resistance and verify voltage at its connector. Also, use a vacuum pump to test the wastegate actuator's movement.
Step 3: If the solenoid tests faulty or the vacuum lines are damaged, the parts you'll likely need are a new wastegate solenoid 'B' and potentially a set of vacuum lines.