P0243: Turbocharger wastegate solenoid or regulating valve A: circuit malfunction
Turbo wastegate solenoid A circuit malfunction
Severity: Severity not verified — if the car runs badly, have it inspected
The sources read (TroubleCodes.net and the Delaware DMV list) define the code but do not rate how urgent it is. Loss of boost power is possible, so have it checked.
P0243 in short
P0243 means the engine computer found a circuit malfunction problem with turbocharger wastegate solenoid (regulating valve) A, the part that controls boost. TroubleCodes.net lists wiring, the solenoid or actuator, vacuum hoses and the boost sensor as common causes. Check the wiring and hoses first.
The wastegate lets exhaust bypass the turbo so boost stays within a safe limit. The computer controls it through solenoid A, and it sets this code when what it sees in that control does not fit what it commanded.
TroubleCodes.net names damaged wiring or connectors, a defective solenoid or actuator, a faulty boost sensor, leaking vacuum hoses and, rarely, the computer. On twin-turbo engines, solenoid A has to be located from the service manual.
Most likely causes
These are general causes for this code across vehicles. None is specific to one make or model.
Cause 1: Damaged, corroded or disconnected wiring or connector
Possible — needs testing- Why it ranks here
- TroubleCodes.net lists wiring first and it is the cheapest check.
- What would change this
- Rises if a harness fault is seen. Falls if it tests clean.
Cause 2: Defective wastegate solenoid, actuator or wastegate
Possible — needs testing- Why it ranks here
- The solenoid and actuator are the parts the code is about, but they are replaced only after wiring and hoses are cleared.
- What would change this
- Rises if wiring is good and the solenoid or actuator does not respond when commanded.
Cause 3: Leaking or disconnected vacuum hoses
Possible — needs testing- Why it ranks here
- Listed by TroubleCodes.net for the wastegate control codes on vacuum-operated systems.
- What would change this
- Rises if a hose is split or off. Falls on electric actuators with no hoses.
Cause 4: Faulty boost pressure sensor
Possible — needs testing- Why it ranks here
- A wrong boost reading can make the computer judge the wastegate wrongly.
- What would change this
- Rises if the boost sensor reading is wrong with the engine off.
What to test first
Start at step 1. Each result tells you what it means and where to go next.
Step 1: Read all stored codes, including any boost sensor codes, and note which solenoid is A in the service manual.
IfBoost sensor codes are stored too
It meansFix the sensor circuit first.
IfOnly this code is stored
It meansInspect wiring and hoses.
Step 2: With the engine off and cool, look over the solenoid connector, wiring and vacuum hoses for damage, splits or loose fittings.
IfDamaged wiring is found
It meansRepair it and retest.
Points to: Damaged, corroded or disconnected wiring or connector
IfA hose is split or off
It meansReplace it.
IfAll looks fine
It meansThe solenoid or actuator needs a bench or command test.
Points to: Defective wastegate solenoid, actuator or wastegate
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Reduced power or poor boost
How to fix
Step 1: With the engine off and cool, look over the wastegate solenoid wiring and any vacuum hoses for damage or a loose fitting.
Step 2: Ask a shop to confirm which solenoid is A on your vehicle before replacing parts.
On your vehicle
We don't have reviewed vehicle-specific evidence for P0243 yet. The causes and tests above apply across vehicles.
Related codes
Sources and review
- Last reviewed
- Written by
- Saurabh K.
- Editorial review
- Pending
- Technician review
- Technician review pending
This page explains what a code usually means; it is not a substitute for a professional inspection. How we source and review · Report an error