Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
The engine code P0246 refers to the condition of the Turbocharger Wastegate Solenoid A being too high.
What does this mean?
This particular diagnostic trouble code is applicable to turbocharged and supercharged engines, including certain Audi, Ford, GM, Mercedes, Mitsubishi, VW, and Volvo vehicles.
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) regulates the boost pressure in both gasoline and diesel engines by controlling the output circuit to the “A” wastegate/boost pressure control solenoid.
When the PCM supplies power or ground to the solenoid to activate it, and it detects that there is already voltage applied to a circuit when there shouldn’t be, it will trigger code P0246. This code indicates an electrical circuit malfunction.
The troubleshooting steps may vary depending on the manufacturer, type of wastegate/boost pressure control, and wire colors of the control solenoid.
Symptoms
The symptoms associated with engine code P0246 may include:
Causes
The potential causes for the code P0246 to be set are:
Diagnostic and Repair Procedures
It is always recommended to check for technical service bulletins (TSB) specific to your vehicle as a starting point. There may be a known issue with a known fix provided by the manufacturer, which can save time and money during diagnosis.
Next, locate the “A” wastegate/boost pressure control solenoid on your vehicle and visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for any signs of scraping, rubbing, bare wires, burn spots, or melted plastic. Disconnect the connectors and carefully inspect the terminals inside. Check for any signs of burning or corrosion. If needed, clean the terminals using electrical contact cleaner and a plastic bristle brush. Allow them to dry and apply electrical grease to the contact points.
The most common failure is due to connection issues.
If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic trouble codes from memory and see if the P0246 code returns. If it does not, then the problem was most likely related to the connections.
If the code does return, further testing of the solenoid and its associated circuits is necessary. Typically, there are 2 wires connected to the wastegate/boost pressure control solenoid. First, disconnect the harness connected to the solenoid. Using a Digital Volt Ohm Meter (DVOM), connect one lead of the meter to one terminal of the solenoid and the other lead to the remaining terminal. The circuit should not be open or shorted. Verify the resistance specifications for your specific vehicle. If the solenoid is either open or shorted (infinite resistance or no resistance/0 ohms), replace the solenoid.
If that test passes, use a DVOM to check if there is 12V on the power supply circuit of the wastegate/boost pressure control solenoid (Red lead to the solenoid power supply circuit, black lead to a good ground). Ensure that the ignition is on. If there is no 12 volts to the solenoid, or if there is 12 volts when the ignition is turned off, repair the wiring from the PCM or relay to the solenoid, or consider the possibility of a faulty PCM.
If that’s okay, check for a good ground at the wastegate/boost pressure control solenoid. Connect a test light to the 12V battery positive (red terminal) and touch the other end of the test light to the ground circuit going to the wastegate/boost pressure control solenoid. Use the scan tool to activate the solenoid and see if the test light illuminates each time the solenoid is activated. If the test light does not illuminate, it indicates a problem with the circuit. If it does illuminate, wiggle the wiring harness going to the solenoid to check for any flickering of the test light, indicating an intermittent connection.
If all the tests have passed so far and the P0246 code continues to appear, it is likely that the wastegate/boost pressure control solenoid has failed. However, the possibility of a failed PCM cannot be ruled out until the solenoid has been replaced. If unsure, it is recommended to seek assistance from a trained automotive diagnostician. PCMs must be programmed or calibrated to the vehicle in order to be installed correctly.
