P0246: Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid "A" High
Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid "A" High: the control module has detected this fault condition. This affects turbo/supercharger boost-pressure control.
What P0246 means
P0246 is a generic OBD-II powertrain code in the fuel & air group.
- Check engine light
- Usually on
- Emissions-related
- Yes — can fail inspection
- Limp mode possible
- Yes
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
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Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Significant power loss / limp mode
- Possible blue or black smoke from exhaust
- Whistling or hissing sound from intake
Common causes
- 01Solenoid circuit shorted to supplyMost likely
- 02ECU driver damagedLess likely
Can I drive with P0246?
Not recommended beyond getting it to a shop.
This fault can put the engine or transmission in limp mode with reduced power, which can make merging and passing unsafe. Have it diagnosed as soon as possible.
Why we rate it urgent
- Can put the vehicle in limp mode (reduced power)
- Turns on the check engine light
- Emissions-related: will usually fail an OBD inspection
Severity is our rule-based rating from the code’s flags in OBDex and the system it affects, not an inspection of your car. If the check engine light is flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, stop driving and get help.
How to diagnose P0246
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just P0246. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Check for related codes first
Look for P0245. Related codes often share a cause; a circuit or sensor code usually needs fixing before a performance code like this one.
- 3
Test the circuit
Inspect the wiring and connector at the wastegate solenoid and solenoid wiring for damage, corrosion or chafing. With a multimeter, check supply voltage, ground and signal against the specifications in the service manual for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: Solenoid circuit shorted to supply; ECU driver damaged. Test before replacing parts.
- 5
Check for recalls and service bulletins
Look up recalls for your exact vehicle with its VIN, and ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs). Manufacturers sometimes issue software updates or extended warranties for known faults.
- 6
Clear the code and verify the repair
After the repair, clear the code and drive the car under the conditions in the freeze-frame data to confirm it does not return.
P0246 repair cost estimate
Estimate, not a quote. Labor times are typical ranges for this code from OBDex, and $125/hr is an assumed rate. Shop rates and labor times vary by vehicle and region. Diagnosis time may be billed separately.
- DIY difficulty
- Moderate
- Good DIY job?
- Yes, with a scan tool
Needs a scan tool and some experience with testing.
Parts and systems involved
- Wastegate solenoid
- Solenoid wiring
P0246 FAQ
What does P0246 mean?
P0246 means “Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid A High”. Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid "A" High: the control module has detected this fault condition. This affects turbo/supercharger boost-pressure control.
Is P0246 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate P0246 as urgent severity. Not recommended beyond getting it to a shop. This fault can put the engine or transmission in limp mode with reduced power, which can make merging and passing unsafe. Have it diagnosed as soon as possible.
What causes P0246?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Solenoid circuit shorted to supply; ECU driver damaged. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix P0246?
Typical labor is about $40–$315 at an assumed $125/hour shop rate, plus parts. That is an estimate, not a quote: labor times and rates vary by vehicle and region, and diagnosis may be billed separately.
Can I fix P0246 myself?
DIY difficulty is moderate. Many owners can handle it with a scan tool, a multimeter and basic hand tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will P0246 clear itself?
If the fault was intermittent, the warning may go off once the computer stops seeing it, but the code stays in memory. Fix the cause; clearing the code alone doesn’t repair anything.