Description of fault code P0117,
OBD2 Error Codes

P2020 Range Impeller Position Sensor / Intake Manifold Switch Perf Bank 2

P2020 Range Impeller Position Sensor / Intake Manifold Switch Perf Bank 2

OBD-II DTC Datasheet

Intake Manifold Impeller Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Range / Performance Bank 2

What does this mean?

This Generic Powertrain / Engine DTC is commonly applied to fuel injection engines from most manufacturers since 2003.

These manufacturers include, but are not limited to, Ford, Dodge, Toyota, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Nissan, and Infiniti.

This code mainly refers to the value provided by the intake manifold flow control valve / sensor, also called the IMRC valve / sensor (usually located at one end of the intake manifold), which helps the vehicle PCM to monitor the amount of air. allowed in the engine at different speeds. This code is set for bank 2, which is a cylinder group that does not include cylinder number 1. This could be a mechanical or electrical fault, depending on the vehicle manufacturer and the fuel system.

Troubleshooting steps may vary depending on the make, fuel system and intake manifold valve position / position sensor (IMRC) type and wire colors.

symptoms

Symptoms of a P2020 engine code may include:

  • Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated
  • Lack of power
  • Random misfires
  • Poor fuel economy

reasons

Typically, the reasons for setting this code are as follows:

  • Stuck / malfunctioning throttle / body
  • Stuck / defective IMRC valve bank 2
  • Faulty drive IMRC / sensor row 2
  • Rare - Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM) (requires programming after replacement)

Diagnostic steps and repair information

A good starting point is always to check the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) for your particular vehicle. Your problem may be a known issue with a known manufacturer-released fix and could save you time and money while troubleshooting.

The next thing you need to do is notice if there are any other DTCs. If any of these are related to the intake / engine system, diagnose them first. These codes are known to be misdiagnosed if someone diagnoses this code before any system codes related to intake / engine performance are thoroughly diagnosed and repaired. Check for leaks at the inlet or outlet. An intake leak or vacuum leak will deplete the engine. An exhaust leak gives the impression of a lean burn engine as air flows past the air-fuel / oxygen ratio (AFR / O2) sensor.

Then locate the bank 2 IMRC valve / sensor on your specific vehicle. Once detected, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for scuffs, scratches, exposed wires, abrasions, or melted plastic connectors. Disconnect the connectors and take a close look at the terminals (metal parts) inside the connectors. Make sure they are not burnt or rusty. When in doubt, purchase an electrical contact cleaner from any parts store if terminal cleaning is required. If this is not possible, use rubbing alcohol and a small plastic bristled brush to clean them. Let them air dry after cleaning. Fill the connector cavity with dielectric silicone compound (the same material they use for bulb holders and spark plug wires) and reassemble.

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic trouble codes from memory and see if the code returns. If this is not the case, then there is most likely a connection problem.

If the code does return, we will need to check the IMRC valve / sensor voltage signals coming from the PCM as well. Monitor the IMRC sensor voltage on your scan tool. If no scan tool is available, check the signal from the IMRC sensor with a digital volt ohm meter (DVOM). With the sensor connected, the red wire of the voltmeter must be connected to the signal wire of the IMRC sensor and the black wire of the voltmeter must be connected to ground. Start the engine and check the IMRC sensor input. Click on the throttle. As the engine speed increases, the IMRC sensor signal should change. Check the manufacturer's specs, as there may be a table informing you of how much voltage should be at a given RPM.

If it fails this test, you will need to make sure the IMRC valve will move and not stick or get stuck in the intake manifold. Remove the IMRC sensor / actuator and grasp the pin or lever that moves the plates / valves in the intake manifold. Be aware that they may have a strong return spring attached to them, so they may experience tension when pivoting. When turning the plates / valves, check for binding / leaks. If so, you will need to replace them and this usually means that you will need to replace the entire intake manifold. It is better to entrust this task to professionals.

If the IMRC plates / valves rotate without binding or excessive loosening, this indicates the need to replace the IMRC sensor / actuator and retest.

Again, it cannot be stressed enough that all other codes must be diagnosed before this, since problems that cause other codes to be set can also cause this code to be set. It also cannot be stressed enough that after the first or two diagnostic steps have taken place and the problem is not obvious, it would be a prudent decision to consult with an automotive professional regarding repairing your vehicle, as most of the repairs from there onward require removing and replacing the intake manifold in order to correct this code and engine performance issue correctly.

It is also worth noting that some of the IMRC plates / valves can be held in place with the sensor / actuator assembly and cannot be replaced separately. Attempting to disassemble them may break them. If you are unsure about your vehicle, contact a professional car maker.

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