OBD-II fault code

P259A: Turbocharger Boost Control Position Sensor B Performance - Stuck Low

What it means

Same condition as the A-side stuck-low fault, but on the second sensor / second turbo. Position sensor B reads stuck near the low end while the actuator is commanded.

At a glance

  • Usually lights the check-engine light
  • Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test

How it works

Turbocharger boost control position sensor B reports actuator travel to the control module, which compares it with the requested position. This code sets when sensor B remains near the low end despite a movement command, indicating a low-pegged or misadjusted sensor, wiring trouble, or a B-side actuator or linkage stuck near that end; sensor B does not by itself prove the vehicle has a second turbo.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Boost-control actuator or linkage binding near the low-travel end
  2. Position sensor B misadjusted or reporting incorrectly
  3. Damaged actuator wiring or connector

Symptoms

  • Check-engine light may come on
  • Reduced engine power or boost may occur

How to diagnose it

  1. Record freeze-frame data and compare commanded and actual sensor B position with boost pressure in live data to confirm the low reading occurs when movement is requested.
  2. Inspect sensor B's connector and wiring for loose terminals, corrosion, damage, or contamination that could distort feedback.
  3. Check the B-side actuator rod and linkage for binding near the low-travel end.
  4. Use a supported actuator test, if available, and watch whether sensor B follows the requested movement.
  5. Test sensor B's circuit and adjustment against the manufacturer's specification before replacing the sensor or actuator.

Common fixes

  • Repair damaged wiring or poor contact at sensor B.
  • Correct sensor B adjustment according to the manufacturer's procedure.
  • Free or repair a binding B-side actuator linkage.
  • Replace sensor B or its actuator if testing confirms it cannot report or reach the commanded position.

Can I keep driving?

Drive gently and avoid heavy acceleration or towing because the B-side boost control may be limited or unstable. Stop if the engine loses substantial power, develops unusual turbo noise, or produces heavy smoke.

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.

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