P2563 Code: Turbocharger Boost Control Position Sensor Circuit Range / Performance

The turbocharger improves the engine’s performance by sending more air into the engine. This increases the amount of oxygen inside the cylinders, which helps burn the fuel and produce more power. 

Some modern vehicles use a variable geometry (VGT) turbocharger. Engines with variable geometry turbochargers (like Power Stroke and Duramax) use vanes to control the speed and performance of the turbocharger The VGT turbocharger is operated by the powertrain control module (PCM), which uses the turbocharger boost control position solenoid to monitor the device’s vane position, which correlates to boost pressure.

A turbocharger boost control position sensor constantly monitors the turbocharger. If the sensor doesn’t send the right signal or sends an abnormal signal to the PCM, the computer will log a P2563 code.

What Does the P2563 Code Mean?

The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P2563 stands for “Turbocharger Boost Control Position Sensor Circuit Range/Performance.”

Also called the “turbocharger vane position sensor,” the turbocharger boost control position sensor measures the vane position, which correlates to the boost pressure, of the variable geometry turbocharger. It sends the appropriate signal to the PCM, which uses the sensor reading to determine the position of the vanes. 

The PCM adjusts the boost pressure based on the readings from the turbocharger boost control position sensor to prevent excessive or insufficient boost conditions. Overboosting can damage the engine, while underboosting can affect the power produced by the engine. Thus, the sensor contributes to the safe operation of your turbocharged engine.

To make sure the turbocharger runs efficiently and safely, both the turbocharger boost control position sensor and its electrical control circuit must work properly. Even if the turbocharger runs properly, a bad sensor or wiring will affect the engine’s performance.

The PCM regularly checks the signal from the turbocharger boost control position sensor. If the computer doesn’t get the right response from the sensor, it will set the engine code P2563.

Note: The definition of code P2563 can 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 P2563 Code?

• Faulty turbocharger boost control position sensor
• Failed turbocharger 
• Bad turbocharger solenoid
• Problem with the electrical wiring or circuit
• Faulty powertrain control module

What are the Common Symptoms of the P2563 Code?

• The turbocharger doesn’t boost the engine’s performance as it should
• Overboost condition
• Check engine light is illuminated
• Vehicle stuck in “limp” mode

How to Diagnose the P2563 Code

DTC P2563 is a generic OBD-II code. It can apply to any OBD-II-compliant vehicle equipped with a turbocharger.

If you lack the confidence and skill to diagnose your turbocharger-equipped vehicle, it’s best to bring it to a professional mechanic. Otherwise, you can go ahead and evaluate the issue yourself.

The following video will give you an idea of what the diagnostic process might involve:

How to Fix the P2563 Code

Attempting to fix a P2563 code can become a frustrating task if you don’t have the right tools and know-how to test the turbocharger boost control position sensor. In most cases, it’s best to leave the job to professionals.

For DIYers with advanced technical knowledge and hands-on experience who prefer to test and replace their vehicle’s turbocharger boost control position sensor themselves, it’s a good idea to consult a repair manual or refer to an online repair database.