P0243 Code: Turbocharger / Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid “A”

The wastegate solenoid controls the safety valve that lets a turbocharger or supercharger reduce the boost pressure level of the air heading toward the engine. It helps ensure the turbocharged/supercharged engine meets the current load without overboosting. Depending on the vehicle and engine, the wastegate solenoid is managed by the powertrain control module (PCM) or the engine control module (ECM).

If the PCM detects a problem that prevents it from operating the wastegate solenoid in the “A” position, it will log a P0243 code and activate the check engine light.

What Does the P0243 Code Mean?

The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0243 indicates “Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid “A”.

The wastegate is a control valve for a turbocharger or supercharger. The valve opens when there is a need to lower the boost pressure in the engine. It plays an important role in the boost control system by adjusting the pressure to the right level. Furthermore, the wastegate prevents overboost conditions that can affect the vehicle’s performance and damage the engine.

Vehicles equipped with an ECM or PCM operate the wastegate electronically by running a current through its solenoid to activate the valve’s actuator. Older car models have a different system that takes advantage of engine vacuum to run the wastegate.

The PCM regularly checks the signal from the turbocharger/supercharger wastegate solenoid in the “A” position. If the computer cannot control the solenoid and its wastegate, it will set the powertrain/engine code P0243. The PCM can also disable the turbocharger or supercharger to reduce the risk of overboosting which can damage the engine.

Note: The definition of code P0243 may differ according to the vehicle manufacturer. Check the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.

What are the Possible Causes of the P0243 Code?

• Bad wastegate solenoid
• Issues with the wires and/or connectors of the wastegate’s control/signal circuits
• Faulty PCM/ECM

What are the Common Symptoms of the P0243 Code?

• Turbocharger or supercharger does not produce enough boost pressure
• Illuminated check engine light

How to Diagnose the P0243 Code

The P0243 is a powertrain/engine code. It applies to turbocharged or supercharged vehicles with electronically-controlled wastegates.

There are many boost control systems in the market, and their turbochargers and superchargers can have differences despite following more or less the same design. If you’re not confident about conducting diagnostic tests on your vehicle, it’s a good idea to bring it to a professional mechanic. Otherwise, you may go ahead and diagnose the issue yourself.

Here’s a video to give you an idea of what the diagnostic process might involve:

How to Fix the P0243 Code

Attempting to fix a P0243 code may become a frustrating task if you don’t have the right tools and know-how to test the wastegate solenoid. In most cases, it’s best to leave the job to professionals.
If you’re a DIYer with advanced technical knowledge and hands-on experience, checking the appropriate repair manual or referring to an online repair database can help you get the job done.

Find the Right Turbocharger Wastegate For Your Car

Aside from replacing the turbocharger wastegate solenoid, you might need a new wastegate if you want to resolve the P0243 code. If you have a bad turbocharger wastegate, replace it ASAP to restore your vehicle’s performance and prevent more serious engine problems. Fortunately, you can easily find a compatible turbocharger wastegate for your vehicle at CarParts.com.

At CarParts.com, we make it easy for you to find a turbocharger wastegate that fits your car. Plug your vehicle’s year, make, model, and engine into our website’s built-in vehicle selector, and you can view our products that meet your requirements. Once you’ve found the turbocharger wastegate that fits your needs, you can effortlessly place your order on your mobile device. If you live in the continental US and order before noon ET, you can get your new turbocharger wastegate in as quickly as two business days.

For high-quality replacement turbocharger wastegates that won’t break the bank, look no further than CarParts.com. Order one of our turbocharger wastegates today and enjoy long-lasting performance on your new part.