What it means
The IMRC actuator drive line on bank 2 reads below the expected voltage threshold — typically a short to ground or a stuck-low driver inside the control module.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
The intake manifold runner control actuator on bank 2 operates flaps that change airflow through that bank's intake. The control module monitors the actuator drive line, and P2012 sets when its voltage falls below the expected range, commonly because the wire is shorted to ground or the actuator winding is internally shorted.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Short to ground in driver line
- Actuator winding shorted internally
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
Symptoms
- Check-engine light
- Reduced engine power or sluggish acceleration
- Hesitation or uneven engine response
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and check related IMRC codes to see when the bank 2 circuit voltage dropped.
- Inspect the bank 2 actuator connector and harness for chafing, pin damage, corrosion, or wiring touching ground.
- Check the drive wire for a short to ground and inspect connector contacts for poor connections using the vehicle's wiring diagram.
- Measure the bank 2 IMRC solenoid winding and compare it with the manufacturer's specification to identify an internal short.
- If the circuit and actuator test normally, follow the manufacturer's procedure to check the control module driver.
Common fixes
- Repair chafed bank 2 IMRC wiring that is shorted to ground.
- Clean, secure, or repair corroded bank 2 actuator connector terminals.
- Replace the bank 2 actuator solenoid if its winding is shorted.
- Repair the control module driver only after confirming it is stuck low.
Can I keep driving?
You can usually drive gently if the engine is running smoothly, but acceleration may be sluggish or uneven while the bank 2 runners are inoperative. Avoid hard acceleration and stop if misfiring begins or the warning light flashes.
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.