OBD-II fault code

P259B: Turbocharger Boost Control Position Sensor B Performance - Stuck High

What it means

Same as the A-side stuck-high fault, applied to sensor B / turbo B. Boost control tracks commanded vs. actual manifold pressure; persistent deviation means wastegate, vanes, hose or actuator are not delivering the requested pressure.

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 so the control module can compare it with the requested position. This code sets when sensor B stays near the high end when it should move away, suggesting a pegged or misadjusted sensor, wiring trouble, or a B-side actuator or linkage binding there; it does not by itself confirm a second turbo.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Boost-control actuator or linkage binding near the high-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. Save freeze-frame data and compare commanded and actual sensor B position with boost pressure in live data to identify when the high reading occurs.
  2. Inspect sensor B's connector and harness for loose or corroded terminals, damaged insulation, or poor contact.
  3. Check the B-side actuator and linkage for binding at the high-travel end and inspect the associated wastegate or VGT mechanism.
  4. Run a supported actuator command test, if available, and watch whether sensor B tracks the requested movement.
  5. Check sensor B adjustment and circuit operation against the manufacturer's specification to separate a feedback fault from mechanical binding.

Common fixes

  • Repair damaged wiring or poor connections at sensor B.
  • Correct sensor B adjustment using the manufacturer's procedure.
  • Free or repair a binding B-side linkage or actuator.
  • Replace sensor B or the actuator if testing confirms it cannot track the commanded position.

Can I keep driving?

Use light throttle and avoid towing while the B-side boost control is unreliable; power may be reduced or boost protection may intervene. Stop if power falls sharply, smoke becomes heavy, or unusual turbo noise develops.

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.

Codes for the same component

Nearby codes