P0299
Fix within a few daysYour engine's turbocharger or supercharger is not producing enough boost pressure.
Code P0299 means your engine's turbocharger or supercharger is not producing enough boost. Common causes: Boost leaks (50%), wastegate issues (25%), turbo failure (15%). Drivability: Yes, for short trips, but fix soon. Repair cost: $50-$400 DIY, $150-$700 professional.
Can I Drive With P0299?
Yes, for short trips only
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration. Get it fixed within a few days.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, loud grinding/whining noises from the turbo, significant smoke from the exhaust, or severe power loss.
Symptoms of P0299
- 1Noticeable loss of engine power or acceleration
- 2Engine feels sluggish or 'bogged down'
- 3Check Engine Light is on
- 4Engine may enter 'limp mode' with severely reduced power
- 5Possible whistling or hissing sounds from the engine bay
Common Causes of P0299
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
Cracked or disconnected hoses, a leaking intercooler, or a faulty intake manifold gasket allows boost pressure to escape, preventing the engine from reaching target boost.
50% of P0299 cases are fixed by repairing boost leaks
A faulty wastegate actuator or its control solenoid can cause the wastegate to stay partially open, diverting exhaust gas away from the turbo turbine and reducing boost.
25% of P0299 cases are fixed by replacing wastegate components
Worn turbo bearings, damaged compressor or turbine wheels, or a seized shaft prevent the turbo from spinning efficiently and generating adequate boost.
15% of P0299 cases are fixed by replacing the turbocharger
A malfunctioning MAP or boost sensor can send incorrect pressure readings to the engine computer, causing it to miscalculate and under-request boost.
5% of P0299 cases are fixed by replacing the MAP/boost sensor
A severely clogged catalytic converter or other exhaust restriction creates excessive back pressure, hindering the turbo's ability to spool up and generate boost.
5% of P0299 cases are fixed by addressing exhaust restrictions
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect all visible boost hoses, intercooler pipes, and vacuum lines for any obvious cracks, tears, or disconnections.
- Listen for any distinct hissing or whistling sounds from the engine bay when the engine is running, especially when revving it slightly.
- Check the gas cap to ensure it's tight (though less common for P0299, it's a quick check for general engine codes).
How to Diagnose P0299
- 1Visually inspect all turbocharger hoses, intercooler pipes, and vacuum lines for cracks, disconnections, or loose clamps.
- 2Listen carefully for any hissing or whistling sounds from the engine bay while the engine is running, especially under load.
- 3Perform a boost leak test using a smoke machine or a dedicated boost leak tester to pinpoint exact leak locations.
- 4Use an OBD-II scan tool to monitor live data for boost pressure, MAP sensor readings, and wastegate duty cycle to see if they match commanded values.
- 5Check the wastegate actuator for proper movement and ensure its linkage is not seized or disconnected.
- 6Inspect the turbocharger for excessive shaft play (in and out, side to side) if other causes are ruled out.
P0299 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2011-2024EcoBoost engines are prone to P0299 due to failing electronic wastegate actuators, diverter valve issues, or boost leaks from the intercooler and charge pipes. Condensation in the intercooler can also be a factor.
65% fixed by addressing leaks or wastegate/diverter valve issues
Volkswagen/Audi
2006-2024VW/Audi 1.8T and 2.0T engines frequently experience P0299 from failing diverter valves (often diaphragm tears), PCV system leaks that create vacuum/boost issues, or sticky wastegate linkages.
70% fixed by replacing diverter valve or fixing PCV/boost leaks
Subaru WRX/STI
2002-2024Subaru turbo models can trigger P0299 due to boost leaks from intercooler hoses, faulty bypass valves, or issues with the turbo's internal wastegate mechanism. Regular maintenance is key.
60% fixed by repairing boost leaks or bypass valve
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0299 mean?
P0299 indicates that your vehicle's engine computer has detected that the turbocharger or supercharger is not generating the expected amount of boost pressure. This results in reduced engine power.
Can I drive with P0299?
Yes, you can drive for short, essential trips, but you must fix this within a few days. Continued driving with low boost can put extra strain on the engine and potentially lead to more expensive damage to the turbocharger or other engine components.
Will P0299 clear itself?
No, P0299 will not clear itself. The underlying mechanical or electrical issue causing the underboost condition must be diagnosed and repaired before the code will clear. Even if the Check Engine Light turns off temporarily, the problem is still present.
How do I fix P0299 myself?
Start by visually inspecting all boost and vacuum hoses for cracks or disconnections. If no obvious leaks are found, a boost leak test is the next step. If leaks are ruled out, you might need to test the wastegate actuator/solenoid or the MAP sensor. Replacing a faulty hose, diverter valve, or wastegate solenoid is often a DIY repair.
How much does it cost to fix P0299?
The cost to fix P0299 varies widely depending on the cause. A simple boost leak (hose/clamp) can be $10-$50 DIY or $100-$250 at a shop. A new diverter valve or wastegate solenoid might cost $50-$400 for parts DIY, or $150-$700 professionally installed. A full turbocharger replacement can range from $500-$2000 for parts DIY, or $1000-$4000+ at a shop.
P0299 keeps coming back - why?
P0299 often returns if the root cause wasn't fully addressed. Common reasons include: an overlooked small boost leak, a wastegate actuator that was adjusted but is still faulty, a failing turbocharger that was misdiagnosed, or a sensor providing intermittent incorrect readings. A thorough diagnostic process is essential to prevent recurrence.
Will P0299 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0299 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure in most states, and an underboost condition directly impacts engine performance and efficiency, which are monitored during these tests.
What's the difference between P0299 and P0234?
P0299 indicates an 'underboost' condition, meaning the turbocharger is not producing enough pressure. P0234 indicates an 'overboost' condition, meaning the turbocharger is producing too much pressure. Both codes point to issues with the forced induction system, but in opposite directions.
P0299 on Ford F-150 EcoBoost?
On Ford F-150 EcoBoost engines, P0299 is often linked to issues with the electronic wastegate actuator, diverter valve failures, or boost leaks from the intercooler or associated piping. Condensation buildup in the intercooler can also contribute to power loss and trigger this code.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you perform a smoke test or boost leak test on the entire intake system?
Good answer: Yes, we pressurized the system and found a leak at [specific location, e.g., intercooler hose, diverter valve]. We've repaired it and confirmed it holds pressure.
What were the live boost pressure readings compared to the commanded boost pressure?
Good answer: The actual boost was consistently [X psi] while the computer was requesting [Y psi], indicating a significant underboost. We then traced it to [cause].
Did you check the wastegate actuator and its linkage for proper operation?
Good answer: Yes, we checked the wastegate for free movement and tested the actuator with a vacuum pump/scan tool. It was [stuck/not responding/working correctly].
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$400
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$700
Save $100-$300 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-4 hours
Intermediate - While visual checks and some part replacements are DIY-friendly, accurately diagnosing boost leaks or wastegate issues often requires specialized tools like a smoke machine or a capable scan tool, making it an intermediate repair.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0299 can lead to significant long-term damage. The engine will run inefficiently, potentially causing excessive carbon buildup, increased fuel consumption, and premature wear on engine components. A $50-$400 repair for a boost leak or wastegate issue can quickly become a $1000-$4000 turbocharger replacement if the turbo is continuously overstressed or starved of oil due to related issues.
While You're In There...
If you're already inspecting or replacing boost pipes, it's smart to check and replace any worn or brittle intercooler hoses and clamps, as they are common leak points.
Often located near the turbo or intercooler, these valves are common failure points for P0299 and are easy to access when working on the boost system.
A restricted air filter can indirectly affect turbo performance. It's a low-cost maintenance item that ensures optimal airflow to the turbo.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool (with live data capability)
- Basic Hand Tools (sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers)
- Boost Leak Tester or Smoke Machine (highly recommended)
- Vacuum Pump (for testing wastegate actuators)
- Flashlight
P0299 is a common code for turbocharged engines. Most repairs involve fixing a leak or replacing a component like a diverter valve or wastegate solenoid, which are typically straightforward fixes that restore full engine power.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Perform a thorough visual inspection of all turbocharger-related hoses, pipes, and connections. Look for cracks, loose clamps, or disconnected lines.
Step 2: If no obvious leaks are found, use an OBD-II scan tool to monitor live data for boost pressure, MAP sensor readings, and wastegate duty cycle. Compare actual boost to commanded boost.
Step 3: If live data confirms underboost, perform a boost leak test using a smoke machine or dedicated tester to pinpoint hidden leaks. If leaks are ruled out, investigate the wastegate actuator/solenoid or diverter valve. Parts you'll likely need: Boost leak repair kit, new boost hose, diverter valve, or wastegate solenoid.