P0246 explained: High-voltage fault means the PCM is commanding the solenoid but voltage stays high - the solenoid coil is open or the wire is shorted to +12V. Either way the boost control is broken. Often paired with P0299 (underboost).
🎯 Top Causes & Probability
55%
#1 - Most Likely
Open Solenoid Coil
The internal winding has burned open. Most common failure mode for wastegate solenoids past 80k miles.
🔨 Part
$45-$220
👨🔧 Labor
$60-$180
⚡ DIY
Easy
25%
#2 - Check First
Broken Wire to Solenoid
A wire between the PCM and solenoid is open. Usually at a connector or where the harness flexes.
🔨 Part
$15-$60
👨🔧 Labor
$80-$200
⚡ DIY
Medium
15%
#3 - Less Common
PCM Output Driver Failed
Rare. The PCM driver for that solenoid has failed open. Confirmed only after solenoid and wiring test good.
🔨 Part
$400-$1000
👨🔧 Labor
$120-$240
⚡ DIY
Hard
🚗 Most Affected Vehicles
🔧 Step-by-Step Diagnosis
- Read freeze-frame data and note boost level and RPM when the code set.
- Inspect the wastegate solenoid connector for corrosion or backed-out pins.
- Unplug and measure solenoid resistance. Open reading confirms a dead coil.
- Back-probe with the key on, engine off. You should see +12V on one pin. The other should pull to ground when the PCM commands the solenoid.
- If wiring and solenoid test good, suspect the PCM driver. Confirm with a scope or bidirectional scan tool before swapping the PCM.
- After repair, drive under load to verify boost reaches commanded values without overshoot or undershoot.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with P0246?
Short distances only. The car will be in limp mode with severely reduced boost. Highway speeds will be difficult.
What is the difference between P0245 and P0246?
P0245 is low voltage (short to ground or open at the low side). P0246 is high voltage (open coil or short to +12V). Same solenoid, different failure modes.
Is this an expensive fix?
Usually no. A new solenoid runs $45-$220 plus an hour of labor. Total is often under $300 unless the actuator also needs replacement.
Can I clean the solenoid to fix it?
Sometimes. Soak it in carb cleaner and blow it out with compressed air. If it tested electrically open already, cleaning will not help - it needs replacement.
Will P0246 set with the engine off?
No - the code requires the engine running and the PCM commanding the solenoid. You may see it set within seconds of startup on a cold engine.