Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
The intake manifold tuning (IMT) valve on Bank 1 is stuck open.
What does that mean?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code that applies to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer), including Mercedes Benz, Audi, Chevrolet, GMC, Sprinter, Land Rover, etc. The exact repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.
A stored code P2070 indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an intake manifold tuning (IMT) valve that is stuck open for engine bank two. Bank 1 refers to the bank of the engine that contains the number one cylinder.
Intake manifold tuning is used to regulate and control the intake air as it enters individual manifold ports. The IMT not only regulates the volume of intake air but also creates a swirling motion, which aids in more effective fuel atomization. Each intake manifold port has a metal flap, similar to a throttle plate, attached to a shaft. The shaft runs through the middle of each port and can be turned to open or close the flaps.
The PCM actuates the IMT shaft. Some systems use electronic over vacuum actuators (valves), while others use an electronic motor to move the flaps. The PCM sends the appropriate voltage signal to open and close the IMT valve/s to the desired degree. The PCM monitors the actual valve position to ensure the system is functioning correctly.
If the PCM detects that the IMT valve is stuck open, it stores a code P2070 and illuminates the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). MIL illumination may require multiple ignition cycles with a failure.
Here is an example of an intake manifold tuning (IMT) valve:
What is the severity of this DTC?
A failure in the IMT system could negatively impact fuel efficiency and, in rare cases, result in hardware being drawn into a combustion chamber. It is important to rectify the conditions that led to the storage of code P2070 as quickly as possible.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P2070 trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Possible causes for this code may include:
What are some P2070 troubleshooting steps?
To diagnose a code P2070, you will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and vehicle-specific diagnostic information.
Use your vehicle information source to find a technical service bulletin (TSB) that matches the vehicle’s year, make, model, engine size, stored codes, and exhibited symptoms. If available, the TSB may provide helpful diagnostic information.
Connect the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic connector to retrieve all stored codes and relevant freeze frame data. It is recommended to write down this information before clearing the codes and then test-drive the vehicle until the PCM either enters readiness mode or the code is reset.
If the PCM enters readiness mode, the code is intermittent and may be more challenging to diagnose. In such cases, the conditions that contributed to the code being stored may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made.
If the code is immediately reset, the next step in the diagnosis involves searching your vehicle information source for diagnostic flowcharts, connector pin-out charts, connector face views, and component testing procedures/specifications.
Step 1
Use your vehicle diagnostic information source and the DVOM to test the voltage, ground, and signal circuits at the appropriate IMT valve.
Step 2
Use the DVOM to test the appropriate IMT valve according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Any components that do not test within the maximum allowable parameters should be considered defective.
Step 3
If the IMT valve is functional, use the DVOM to test the input and output signal circuits from the fuse panel and PCM. Disconnect all controllers before using the DVOM for testing.
