P0244 moderate

Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid A Intermittent

The P0244 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid A Intermittent. This is a moderate severity code.

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Keep driving?: Short distances only
DIY difficulty: hard
Estimated cost: $100 - $500 (parts and labor)

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Common Symptoms

Boost pressure fluctuates unpredictably
Check Engine Light comes on intermittently
Occasional limp mode activation
Sporadic loss of power during acceleration
Inconsistent turbo performance

Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)

Loose or corroded wastegate solenoid connector Very High
Intermittent break in solenoid wiring harness High
Wastegate solenoid with intermittent internal coil failure High
Heat-damaged wiring near turbocharger Moderate
PCM intermittent driver circuit fault Low

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

Perform a wiggle test on the solenoid connector and wiring while monitoring boost pressure with a scan tool
Check solenoid resistance when cold and after the engine is at operating temperature -- intermittent coils often fail when hot
Inspect wiring harness near the turbocharger for heat damage, melted insulation, or chafed wires
Monitor the PCM wastegate duty cycle during a road test for erratic signal drops
Replace the solenoid and repair any damaged wiring found during inspection

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with code P0244?

You can drive short distances with caution. The intermittent nature means boost control is unpredictable, and the vehicle may suddenly enter limp mode during driving.

Why is an intermittent code harder to diagnose?

The fault only occurs under certain conditions like heat, vibration, or specific engine loads. Standard testing in the shop may not reproduce the problem, requiring extended monitoring or road testing.

Can heat from the turbo damage the solenoid wiring?

Yes. Turbochargers generate extreme heat that can melt or degrade nearby wiring insulation over time. This is one of the most common causes of intermittent wastegate solenoid codes.