What is the code for the wastegate solenoid?
There isn’t a single universal code for the wastegate solenoid. In OBD-II diagnostics, the exact alphanumeric code depends on the vehicle’s make, model year, and whether the system uses an A or B solenoid. The most commonly encountered group is the P0242–P0245 family, which many manufacturers assign to the Wastegate Solenoid A circuit. For vehicles with a second solenoid, different codes may appear. Always verify with your specific vehicle’s service information.
What the wastegate solenoid does and how codes are assigned
The wastegate solenoid governs how the turbocharger’s wastegate opens, regulating boost pressure. When the solenoid or its circuit detects a fault, the engine control unit stores a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) in the OBD-II system. Because different brands implement the wastegate solenoid differently, the exact numeric code can vary—even for the same underlying fault—between manufacturers and model years.
Common OBD-II codes tied to wastegate solenoids
The following codes are among the most commonly reported across a range of brands for wastegate solenoid issues. Always check the exact code against your vehicle’s repair information, as definitions can shift by OEM.
- P0242 — Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid A Circuit Low
- P0243 — Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid A Circuit High
- P0244 — Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid A Circuit Range/Performance
- P0245 — Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid A Circuit Low/High (model dependent)
Note: Some vehicles with a second solenoid (B) or different turbo configurations may use other codes specific to the OEM. If your car doesn’t match these exactly, consult the factory service information for the precise DTC definitions for your model.
How to identify the exact code for your vehicle
To determine the precise code for your particular car, use an OBD-II scanner and follow the steps below. The exact code will be printed by the vehicle’s computer and may be accompanied by freeze-frame data that helps locate the fault.
- Connect a capable OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and turn the ignition to the ON position (engine off or running, per scanner instructions).
- Retrieve the current or pending DTCs from the powertrain/PCM module and note the code(s).
- Record any freeze-frame data and the vehicle’s mileage and conditions when the code was stored.
- Refer to the vehicle’s service manual or OEM diagnostic database to translate the code into a specific fault (solenoid circuit, wiring, or related components).
- Cross-check for additional codes that often appear with a wastegate issue (boost-related codes, misfire, or vacuum/warm-up diagnostics) to confirm the symptom set.
If you’re unsure about interpreting the code, share the exact make, model, year, and the DTC with a qualified technician or online service manual. They can provide the precise definition for your vehicle’s solenoid system.
What to do if you see a wastegate solenoid code
Once you have identified the code, the following diagnostic and repair steps can help determine the cause and fix the problem. The exact sequence may vary by vehicle, so consult the OEM procedure when possible.
- Inspect the vacuum/boost hoses and connections for cracks, leaks, or disconnections that could affect solenoid operation.
- Check the wastegate actuator and its linkage for sticking or binding that could mimic a solenoid fault.
- Inspect the solenoid’s electrical connector and wiring for corrosion, fraying, or loose pins.
- Measure the solenoid’s resistance with a multimeter and compare against the manufacturer’s specification to determine if the solenoid is defective.
- Test the solenoid operation (activate with a scan tool or power source) to confirm it can switch the circuit as commanded.
- Replace the solenoid or repair the harness as needed. After repairs, clear the DTCs and perform a road test to verify the issue is resolved and that no new codes reappear.
If the code persists after replacing the solenoid or if the issue appears to be a wiring problem, a deeper inspection of the turbo system, vacuum circuits, or the engine control module may be required.
Summary
Wastegate solenoid codes are not universal; the exact DTC depends on the vehicle. The most frequently cited group is the P0242–P0245 family for Wastegate Solenoid A, with other vehicles potentially using different codes for additional solenoids or for brand-specific implementations. To determine the exact code for your car, read the DTC with an OBD-II scanner and consult the OEM service information for your model. If you’d like, tell me your vehicle’s make, model, and year and I’ll help identify the precise code definitions and diagnostic steps for your case.
Summary: The wastegate solenoid code varies by vehicle, with P0242–P0245 commonly associated with Wastegate Solenoid A in many cars. Always confirm with manufacturer-specific documentation and use a diagnostic scan to pinpoint the exact fault and fix it accordingly.
