P0245 Turbocharger wastegate solenoid A low signal

P0245 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Turbocharger wastegate solenoid A signal low

What does trouble code P0245 mean?

Code P0245 is a general diagnostic trouble code that typically applies to turbocharged engines. This code can be found on vehicles of various brands, including Audi, Ford, GM, Mercedes, Mitsubishi, VW and Volvo.

The powertrain control module (PCM) monitors boost pressure in gasoline or diesel engines by controlling the wastegate solenoid. Depending on how the manufacturer configures the solenoid and how the PCM energizes or grounds it, the PCM notices that there is no voltage in the circuit when it should be the other way around. In this case, the PCM sets code P0245. This code indicates an electrical circuit malfunction.

Code P0245 in the OBD-II system indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a low input signal from the wastegate solenoid. This signal is not within specifications and may indicate a short circuit in the solenoid or wiring.

What are the symptoms of the P0245 code?

Code P0245 in the OBD-II system can be manifested by the following symptoms:

1. The Check Engine light comes on and the code is stored in the ECM.
2. A turbocharged engine's boost becomes unstable or completely absent, resulting in reduced power.
3. During acceleration, intermittent power problems may occur, especially if the solenoid has an intermittent circuit or connector.

Additionally, the driver may receive a message on the instrument panel warning of a condition solely due to the P0245 code.

Possible reasons

Possible reasons for setting the P0245 code include:

1. Open in the control circuit (ground circuit) between wastegate/boost pressure control solenoid A and the PCM.
2. Open in the power supply between wastegate/boost pressure control solenoid A and the PCM.
3. Short circuit to ground in the wastegate/boost pressure control solenoid A power circuit.
4. The wastegate solenoid itself is faulty.
5. In extremely rare cases, it is possible that the PCM has failed.

Additional details:

• Faulty wastegate solenoid: This can result in low voltage or high resistance in the solenoid circuit.
• Wastegate solenoid harness is open or shorted: This may cause the solenoid to not interact properly.
• Wastegate solenoid circuit with poor electrical contact: Poor connections can cause the solenoid to operate inconsistently.
• The ground side of the wastegate solenoid is shorted to the control side: This may cause the solenoid to lose control.
• Corroded or loose connection at the solenoid connector: This can increase resistance in the circuit and prevent the solenoid from working properly.

How to diagnose code P0245?

To diagnose and resolve the P0245 code, follow these steps:

1. Scan codes and document freeze frame data to verify the problem.
2. Clear engine and ETC (electronic turbocharger control) codes to ensure there is a problem and the code returns.
3. Test the wastegate solenoid to ensure it can control wastegate vacuum.
4. Check for corrosion at the solenoid connection, which may cause intermittent solenoid control problems.
5. Check wastegate solenoid to specifications or perform spot testing.
6. Check the solenoid wiring for shorts or loose connectors.
7. Check your vehicle's Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for possible known problems and manufacturer-suggested solutions.
8. Locate the wastegate/boost pressure control solenoid "A" on your vehicle and carefully inspect the connectors and wiring for damage, corrosion, or connection problems.
9. Test the solenoid using a digital volt-ohm meter (DVOM) to ensure it is operating within specifications.
10. Check the solenoid power circuit for 12V and make sure there is a good ground at the solenoid.
11. If the P0245 code continues to return after all tests, the wastegate solenoid may be faulty. In this case, it is recommended to replace the solenoid. A faulty PCM could also be the cause, but it is extremely unlikely.

If you are unsure or unable to complete these steps yourself, it is recommended that you seek assistance from a qualified automotive diagnostician. Remember that the PCM must be programmed or calibrated for your vehicle in order to install correctly.

Diagnostic errors

The code and problem cannot be verified before starting the diagnosis. There is also no way to ensure that wiring is not shorted or melted on the exhaust system or turbo.

How serious is code P0245?

If the wastegate solenoid is unable to effectively control the wastegate in the intake manifold, it can cause a lack of boost at times when the engine needs extra power, which in turn can result in a loss of power during acceleration.

What repairs will help resolve the P0245 code?

Wastegate solenoid A changes due to internal short circuit.

The solenoid electrical connections need to be cleaned or replaced due to contact corrosion.

The wiring is repaired and restored in case of short circuit or overheating of the wires.

P0245 – information for specific car brands

P0245 – Turbo Wastegate Solenoid Low for the following vehicles:

1. AUDI Turbo / Super Charger Wastegate Solenoid ‘A’
2. FORD Turbocharger/Wastegate Solenoid "A" Compressor
3. MAZDA Turbocharger wastegate solenoid
4. MERCEDES-BENZ Turbocharger/wastegate solenoid "A"
5. Subaru Turbo/Super Charger Wastegate Solenoid ‘A’
6. VOLKSWAGEN Turbo/Super Charger Wastegate Solenoid 'A'

What is P0245 Engine Code [Quick Guide]

The P0245 code is generated by the ECM when it detects a high resistance or short circuit in the solenoid circuit that is preventing it from operating properly. The most common cause of this problem is high solenoid resistance or an internal short circuit.