Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
Performance Range Issue in Turbocharger/Supercharger Boost Control Circuit “A”
What does that signify?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code that applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles with a supercharger or turbocharger (such as Ford Powerstroke, Chevrolet GMC Duramax, Toyota, Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, VW, etc.). While it is a generic code, the specific repair steps may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
Turbochargers and superchargers are devices that pump air into the engine to increase its power. Superchargers are driven by a belt connected to the engine crankshaft, while turbochargers are driven by the engine’s exhaust.
Many modern turbocharged vehicles use a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), which has adjustable vanes located around the turbine. These vanes can be opened and closed to control the amount of boost pressure. This allows the turbocharger to be controlled independently of the engine speed. The position of the vanes is controlled by the powertrain control module (PCM) using an electronic control solenoid or motor. A dedicated position sensor is used to determine the turbo vane position.
In vehicles with a traditional fixed displacement turbocharger or supercharger, boost is controlled using a wastegate or bypass valve. This valve opens to release excess boost pressure. The PCM monitors this system using a boost pressure sensor.
In the context of this trouble code, the letter “A” indicates a problem with a portion of the system circuit, rather than a specific symptom or component.
Code P0046 is triggered when the PCM detects a performance issue with the boost control solenoid, regardless of whether the engine uses a VGT turbo or a traditional turbocharger/supercharger.
One type of turbocharger boost control solenoid valve:
Related trouble codes for turbochargers/superchargers:
Code Severity & Symptoms
These codes have a moderate to severe severity level. In some cases, problems with the turbocharger/supercharger can cause significant engine damage. It is advisable to address this code as soon as possible.
Symptoms of a P0046 code may include:
Causes
Possible causes for this code to be triggered are:
Diagnostic and Repair Procedures
Begin by visually inspecting the turbo and turbo control system. Look for loose connections, damaged wiring, vacuum leaks, etc. Next, check for any technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to the issue. If no relevant information is found, proceed with a step-by-step diagnosis of the system.
The following is a general procedure, as the testing process for this code varies between vehicles. To accurately test the system, refer to the manufacturer’s diagnostic flow chart.
Check the system function by commanding the control solenoid to change position using a bidirectional scan tool. Increase the engine RPM to around 1,200 RPM and toggle the solenoid between on and off. While doing this, the engine RPM should change, and the sensor position PID on the scan tool should also change. If the RPM fluctuates but the position/pressure PID remains unchanged, suspect a problem with the sensor or its circuit. If the RPM does not change at all, suspect a problem with the control solenoid, turbo/supercharger, or wiring.
