P023B Low rate of the charge air cooler coolant pump control circuit

P023B Low rate of the charge air cooler coolant pump control circuit

OBD-II DTC Datasheet

Low signal level in the control circuit of the coolant pump of the charge air cooler

What does this mean?

This Generic Transmission Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) typically applies to all OBD-II vehicles equipped with a charge air cooler. This may include, but is not limited to, Ford, Chevy, Mazda, Toyota, etc.

In forced-air systems, they use a charge air cooler or, as I call it, an intercooler (IC) to help cool the charge air used by the engine. They work in a similar way to a radiator.

In the case of the IC, instead of cooling the antifreeze, it cools the air in turn for a more efficient air / fuel mixture, increased fuel consumption, performance, etc. In some of these systems, the IC uses a combination of air and coolant to help cool the charge air. air forced into the cylinders by forced induction (supercharger or turbocharger).

In these cases, a coolant pump is used to meet the need for additional coolant flow. Generally speaking, these are electronic fluid pumps that basically supply the coolant flow required by the IC, which the water pump cannot supply on its own.

The MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) illuminates the instrument cluster with P023B and related codes when it monitors a condition outside of a certain range in the IC water pump control circuit. I can think of two reasons, one of which is an obstruction in the orifices of the pump that causes the electrical value to go out of range. The other is a chafed control wire that went through an electrical connection, resulting in an open circuit. The fact is that both mechanical and electrical malfunctions are equally possible.

P023B Charge Air Cooler Coolant Pump Control Circuit Low Active when there is a low electrical value in the charge air cooler coolant pump and / or charge air cooler circuit.

What is the severity of this DTC?

The severity in this case will be low. In most cases, this fault does not raise any immediate safety concerns. However, the handling and performance of the vehicle may suffer, especially if left unattended for long enough.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P023B engine code may include:

• MIL illuminated (control lamp of malfunction)
• Poor engine performance
• Poor fuel consumption
• Unstable / abnormal engine temperatures

What are some of the common causes for the code?

Reasons for this code may include:

• Internal mechanical obstruction in the coolant pump
• Broken or damaged water pump harness
• ECM (Engine Control Module) problem
• Pin / connector problem. (e.g. corrosion, broken tongue, etc.)

What are some steps to troubleshoot the P023B?

Be sure to check the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) for your vehicle. Gaining access to a known fix can save you time and money during diagnostics.

Basic step # 1

First you will need to find your IC (Intercooler. AKA Charge Air Cooler). They are usually located in a location where they can receive optimal airflow (for example, in front of the radiator, inside the front bumper, under the hood). Once discovered, you will need to locate the coolant lines / pipes to trace the path to the coolant pump. These can be tricky to find because they are usually installed in the coolant flow line, so keep that in mind. Given the temperatures that the coolant system is exposed to, it would be wise to carefully inspect the harness around the area for signs of harness melting or the like.

NOTE. Be sure to let the engine cool down before checking or repairing the cooling system.

Basic step # 2

Check the integrity of your cooling system. Check the coolant level and condition. Make sure it is clean and complete before proceeding.

NOTE. Refer to your service manual to find out which antifreeze is used for your specific make and model.

Basic tip # 3

Measure and record the integrity of the charge air cooler control circuit. With a multimeter and appropriate wiring harness, you can test the control circuit yourself. This may involve disconnecting the connector on the ECM (Engine Control Module) and the other end on the coolant pump. See Connection Diagram for specific wiring colors and test procedures.

NOTE. Be sure to disconnect the battery before performing any electrical repairs.

Basic step # 4

You can check the coolant pump yourself depending on your specific system. After all, these are just electric pumps. Check your service manual before proceeding because this may not apply to you. Equipped with a 12V source and a solid ground, you can remove the coolant pump from the vehicle (this may involve draining the system) and turn it on to see if it lights up at all. If so, you can make sure it can handle liquid too (FYI, these pumps are not designed for high pressure or high flow, so just check the general performance here).

Basic step # 5

Diagnosing the ECM is always a last resort, but can sometimes be done relatively easily. This usually involves checking the pinout on the ECU itself and comparing your entries to the desired values. I emphasize that all other diagnostic strategies should be exhausted in advance.

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