P0250 OBD-II Trouble Code: Turbocharger Wastegate Solenoid B Circuit High

P0250 code definition

Turbocharger Wastegate Solenoid B Circuit High

What the P0250 code means

P0250 is an OBD-II generic code that the engine control module (ECM) detected the Turbocharger Wastegate Solenoid B input circuit high above specifications indicating a short to power in the solenoid or wiring.

What causes the P0250 code?

• The turbocharger wastegate solenoid is shorted to power causing a high voltage low resistance on the solenoid circuit to the ECM.

• The wastegate solenoid ground side has a short to power on the control side causing the ECM to have a high voltage on the control circuit of the solenoid.

• The solenoid connector has a corrosion buildup or a broken connector shorting power to the signal return in the circuit.

What are the symptoms of the P0250 code?

• The Check Engine Light will be illuminated and the code is set in ECM memory.

• The engine turbo boost will not work at all causing low power.

• Depending on the vehicle, the short may blow fuses that supply power to other components and can cause those circuits to fail and set codes.

• The engine will intermittently lack power during acceleration if the solenoid has an intermittent shorted circuit or connector.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0250 code?

• Scans codes and documents the freeze frame data in order to verify the problem

• Clears the engine and ETC codes to verify concern and that the code comes back

• Checks the operation of the wastegate solenoid to see if it is capable of controlling vacuum to the wastegate

• Checks for any corrosion in the solenoid connection that may cause intermittent solenoid control issues

• Checks the solenoid to the wastegate for the proper resistance to specifications or pinpoint tests for shorted windings

• Checks the solenoid wiring for shorted harnesses or melted connectors

• Verifies all power supply fuses for the circuit are not blown

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0250 code?

• Failing to verify the code and problem before attempting to diagnose the code
• Failing to verify the harness is not shorted or melted on the exhaust or turbo
• Failing to clear the codes and retest the system for any problems after repairs are made

How serious is the P0250 code?

If the wastegate solenoid cannot operate the wastegate, then you will have a no boost condition in the intake manifold when the engine needs the power, and this will cause the engine to have a lack of power on acceleration. If the short has blown power supply fuses, then other systems may use the same power supply circuit and will have problems in their systems.

What repairs can fix the P0250 code?

• The wastegate solenoid B is replaced for a shorted winding internally

• The wiring connections to the solenoid are cleaned or replaced due to corrosion and shorts in the connections

• The wiring harness is repaired and repositioned for shorted or melted wires

• Power supply fuses are replaced after the short is found and repaired

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0250 code

Code P0250 is triggered by the ECM detecting the solenoid circuit has a low resistance or shorted windings in the solenoid causing the solenoid to not operate. The most common cause is the solenoid having low resistance or shorted windings internally. The solenoid may have been damaged by an exhaust leaking or a harness that came loose and melted to the manifold.

Need help with a P0250 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.