Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
Bank 1 Intake Manifold Runner Performance
What does that signify?
This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that is applicable to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer). This includes vehicles from Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes Benz, Sprinter, Vauxhall, etc. Although it is a generic code, the specific repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.
If your OBD II equipped vehicle has stored a code P200A, it means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an issue with the intake manifold runner control (IMRC) system. Code P200A specifically applies to the bank of the engine that contains the number one cylinder.
The IMRC system is designed to regulate and reconfigure the intake air as it enters the engine. At lower engine RPM levels, the airflow is restricted to reduce exhaust emissions. At higher engine RPM levels, the IMRC flaps create a swirling effect, optimizing fuel atomization and maximizing engine performance.
Typically, the IMRC system consists of metal flaps attached to a pivot rod that runs through the intake ports for each cylinder. The flaps on one bank of the engine usually move together because they are connected to a singular pivot rod controlled by the same actuator. Each bank of the engine has its own pivot rod, flaps, actuator, etc., which operate independently of the other engine banks.
The PCM uses input data from various engine sensors to determine the desired degree of IMRC system component adjustment. Once the PCM applies the appropriate voltage to the correct circuit for the desired IMRC adjustment, engine sensor data is monitored to verify if the intended effect is achieved.
If the PCM detects that the IMRC system cannot be effectively controlled, it will store a code P200A and may illuminate a malfunction indicator lamp.
What is the severity of this DTC?
Stored IMRC codes typically result in wide open intake port flaps. The P200A code should not be considered severe but should be addressed at the earliest convenient opportunity.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P200A trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Possible causes for this code may include:
What are some P200A troubleshooting steps?
If there are stored codes for mass airflow (MAF), manifold air pressure (MAP), or intake air temperature (IAT), address those first before attempting to diagnose the stored P200A code.
If you can find a technical service bulletin (TSB) that matches the vehicle’s year, make, and model, as well as the engine size, stored code/s, and exhibited symptoms, it may provide helpful diagnostic information. To diagnose a code P200A, you will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), a hand-held vacuum pump, and a source of vehicle-specific diagnostic information.
I prefer to start the diagnosis by visually inspecting the IMRC system, focusing on mechanical linkage, vacuum lines and hoses, as well as electrical harnesses and connectors. Repair or replace any worn or damaged IMRC hardware, bushings, or linkage before proceeding.
Next, locate the vehicle diagnostic connector, plug in the scanner, and retrieve all stored codes and relevant freeze frame data. It is a good idea to record this information before clearing the codes in case the code is intermittent. Afterward, test drive the vehicle until the PCM either enters readiness mode or the code is reset. Assume that the code is intermittent and will be much more difficult to diagnose if the PCM enters readiness mode. In this case, the conditions that contributed to the code being stored may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made.
Completing the next step of your diagnosis will require component testing procedures (and specifications), diagnostic flow charts, connector pinout charts, and connector face views.
With the key on and the engine off (KOEO), use the vacuum pump to actuate the IMRC system for the engine bank in question. With vacuum pressure applied to the IMRC actuator, check if the flaps open as requested. If they do, observe scanner data to ensure that the IMRC sensors (if equipped) are functioning properly. If any discrepancies are detected, test the respective sensor/s using the DVOM. Consider defective sensors that do not comply with manufacturer specifications.
If all sensors and circuitry appear to be functioning as intended, and the IMRC hardware is intact, use the DVOM to test the runner control solenoid/s for the appropriate circuit. Consider actuator solenoids that do not comply with manufacturer’s specifications as defective.
