What it means
Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid "A" High: the control module has detected this fault condition. This affects turbo/supercharger boost-pressure control.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
Wastegate solenoid A is an electrically controlled valve that helps regulate turbocharger or supercharger boost. The control module monitors its circuit and sets P0246 when it detects a voltage higher than expected, which can result from a short to supply or a failed module driver.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Solenoid circuit shorted to supply
- ECU driver damaged
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Significant power loss / limp mode
- Possible blue or black smoke from exhaust
- Whistling or hissing sound from intake
How to diagnose it
- Use a scan tool to record freeze-frame data and check for related boost-control or electrical codes before clearing anything.
- Inspect solenoid A’s connector and harness for chafing, pin damage, corrosion, or contact with a power source.
- With the wiring diagram, check solenoid A’s circuit for an unintended connection to supply and compare readings with the manufacturer’s specification.
- Test the solenoid winding and connector terminals for continuity and short circuits using the manufacturer’s procedure.
- If the wiring and solenoid pass, check the control-module driver and its connections according to the manufacturer’s diagnostic procedure.
Common fixes
- Repair wiring shorted to supply in the wastegate solenoid A circuit.
- Clean or repair damaged solenoid A connector terminals and secure the harness away from power sources.
- Replace wastegate solenoid A if its electrical tests fail.
- Repair or replace the control module only after confirming its driver is faulty.
Can I keep driving?
Avoid hard acceleration and boost demand; the engine may lose power or enter limp mode, and faulty boost control can worsen smoke or intake noises. Stop driving if power loss is severe or smoke is heavy.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.