P0246
Turbo/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid A High
If your code reader dashboard displays the generic DTC error code P0246, your vehicle is currently experiencing an active failure related to "Turbo/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid A High". Proper system troubleshooting is required to safely clear this warning.
Driver's Summary
P0246 is triggered when the PCM detects an abnormal condition associated with turbo/supercharger wastegate solenoid a high. In practice, this fault causes overboost, surging, erratic power delivery. This is a serious fault — avoid extended driving and have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Symptoms
Overboost, surging, erratic power delivery
Common Causes
- Short to power in wastegate solenoid A circuit
- Failed wastegate solenoid
- Corrosion in connector
- Bad PCM
How to Fix
- 1 Fix short to battery voltage
- 2 Replace wastegate solenoid
- 3 Clean electrical contacts
- 4 Test PCM
Technical Explanation
The ECM detects code P0246 by continuously monitoring the relevant sensor circuit against calibrated threshold values stored in its non-volatile memory. The PCM monitors crankshaft rotational velocity via the CKP sensor at a resolution of individual tooth gaps on the reluctor ring. A combustion event in each cylinder produces a measurable acceleration spike; its absence or weakness is flagged as a misfire event within a 200-revolution or 1000-revolution test window. The MIL illuminates after the fault is confirmed on two consecutive drive cycles, and the freeze frame data captured at first detection is stored in the PCM's memory for diagnostic reference.
Is It Safe to Drive?
This fault carries real mechanical risk. The root causes — including short to power in wastegate solenoid a circuit — can trigger a chain reaction of component failures if the vehicle continues to be driven. Have it towed or drive directly to a shop without delay.
Mechanic's Pro Tip
Module replacement should always be the last resort for P0246 after exhaustively verifying all power supply circuits, ground connections, and communication bus wiring. Use a wiring diagram to locate all fuses, relays, and ground points for the affected module, and measure voltage drop on each ground with the circuit loaded. A module "failure" is frequently a corroded ground eyelet or a weak battery causing brownout conditions — fix these first and you'll save hundreds of dollars on an unnecessary module replacement.
Solenoid: 80 - 200