Error Code P024A: What It Means & What To Do?

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Problems like lack of boost from the turbo/superchargers, poor fuel mileage, misfiring of engine and even if your vehicle is entering into limp mode indicates that your vehicle may have OBD II Code P024A

The Powertrain Control Module sets this OBD II Code P024A when the Charge Air Cooler Bypass Control Valve stops working to the PCM signal. PCM usually controls and monitor the Charge Air Cooler Bypass Control Valve which controls airflow through the charge air cooler.

OBD Code P024A is for the Performance problem with Charge Air Cooler Bypass Control “A”, this code is also termed as Turbocharger (TC) intercooler bypass actuator A – range/performance problem. It is considered generic because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles, although specific repair steps may be different depending on your car model. In forced induction systems, they use a Charge Air Cooler or an Intercooler (IC) to help in cooling the charge air the engine uses. These Intercoolers cools air to make more efficient air/fuel mixture for better performance. The Bypass Valve is used to let the air bypass the intercooler to be dumped into the atmosphere. ECM uses it to adjust valve according to current engine needs.

The ECM illuminates the check engine light with P024A and associated codes when it monitors any problem with intercoolers bypass control circuit or sensor. And the code is set when ECM detects abnormal performance of the valve itself or circuit.

What causes the problem of Charge Air Cooler Bypass Control "A" Range/Performance?

• Faulty Air flap actuator
• Poor electrical connection or wiring issue
• Clogged bypass valve
• Damaged Fuse/relay
• Corroded or broken pin/connector
• Faulty Air Cooler Bypass Control Valve
• Faulty PCM

1. Engine Control Module - The ECM/ PCM, it’s a crucial part of the vehicle’s on-board computer, which usually resides in either the engine compartment or under one of your front seats, it provides the brain for the engine of the vehicle and makes sure the timing and emissions control system work properly. So, if it founds faulty should be repaired or replaced as required.
2. Air Cooler Bypass Control Valve - As per its name this Air Cooler Bypass Control Valve allows turbo-boosted charged air to bypass a charge-air cooler, if this valve is faulty can create lots of problems.
3. Damaged Wiring Harness - Damaged or Broken Wiring Harness could be an obstruction in bypass valve operational range of motion. So, it should be replaced for the proper functioning of your vehicle and to avoid this error code.
4. Defective Fuse/relay - Fuses and Relays though they are small parts but plays very important role in smooth functioning of your vehicle, so, make sure to replace them if discover faulty.
5. Pin/connector - Make sure the Pin/ connector should not be corroded and have broken lock tab because these could become the main factor creating Code P024A.

This issue should not be unattended as it could develop into something much more serious fairly quickly. Below are the common symptoms for the code P024A. If you experience these please bring your vehicle to a reputable repair facility.

• Lack of power from the turbo/supercharger
• Vehicle invading into “limp mode
• Misfiring of engine
• Engine Light ON
• Fuel Pressure too low
• Poor exhaust
• Diminished engine performance

Trouble code P024A is not difficult to diagnose and repair but it's always good to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle when this error code arises. Keep the below mentioned points in mind while fixing this code:

• Try finding out which cylinder is misfiring if the engine displays a miss and there wasn’t any code.
• Spray a small amount of water on each cylinder exhaust port if in case exhaust manifold is visible. Water will evaporate immediately on good cylinders and slowly on the missing cylinder.
• Pull the plugs and check the condition.
• Try finding out the missing ground strap or rusty ground where the fuel tank is grounded.
• Check if wiring harness is damaged.
• If scan tool can operate the IMRC valves, then the problem is resolved or it’s a call for the new PCM.

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The step by step analysis and diagnosis is recommended by a qualified technician using high grade diagnostic tools to check for all the problems and solving them. This may require the tools like OBD code reader, Hose clamp pliers, Lubricant, Basic socket, screwdriver and wrench sets, Battery terminal cleaner etc.

• First of all, inspect for any obvious physical damage to the charge air cooler bypass control valve and make sure engine is off.
• Inspect if there are any obstructions in the valve’s range of motion by simply removing it completely and clean it completely before reinstalling.
• Observe the wires closely which are involved within the circuit. Those should not have nicks, cuts or signs of corrosion. Make sure to disconnect battery before performing any electrical repairs.
• Inspect carefully the mechanical operation of the valve itself, if you find the valve sticking and there is nothing obstructing it, it means the valve it defective.
• Verify the integrity of the circuit by performing numerous basic electrical tests.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P024A Code

One should keep these few things in mind to avoid mistakes while diagnosing the error code P024A. Usually people miss on these things and commit mistakes. So, always verify and record the integrity of your battery and charging system before troubleshooting. Make sure engine is off. Make sure to disconnect battery before performing any electrical repairs and Always refer to service manual first because it’s the matter of your costly vehicle.