Guide To P2018 OBD Error Code Solutions

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The trouble code P2018 can be explicated as Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Circuit Intermittent Bank 1. This trouble code is generic, which would mean that it can apply to all the vehicles which are equipped with the OBD-II or the vehicles which are made since 1996 up to the present. The specifications on the definition, the troubleshooting steps as well as repairs can always vary from one vehicle make to another. This can happen because of a lot of reasons and the mechanic should diagnose the specific cause for this code.

It is the engine control module which would examine the intake manifold runner position sensor. This trouble code would be set by the ECM when the intake manifold runner position sensor circuit would not be as per the parameters set by the manufacturer.

What causes this problem with the Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Circuit Intermittent Bank 1?

• The throttle plates/body might not be functioning properly
• Defective IMRC valve
• The IMRC actuator/sensor might be damaged
• Malfunctioning Powertrain Control Module

1. Intake Manifold Actuator - The actuator is responsible to handle the opening and closing of the intake valve and is also used to determine its position. Thus, if the actuator is at fault, the air to fuel ratio may change, causing serious performance issues. Buy new actuator and replace the faulty one now!
2. Throttle Position Sensor - It may feel as though the car simply doesn't accelerate as it should, and jerks or hesitates as it picks up speed. It may accelerate smoothly, but lack power. On the flip side, it may be that your car suddenly speeds up while you’re driving, even if you haven’t pressed the accelerator. If these symptoms occur, there's a good chance you've got a problem with the TPS. Thus, replace faulty TPS immediately.
3. Engine Control Module - The solenoid might cause a short in the engine control module because of corrosion in the solenoid or the wire running from the solenoid to the ECM harness.
4. Electronic Control Unit - The ECU power management control module keeps in check the hybrid battery charging functions. If the ECU is faulty, the battery pack will not be able to properly get charged and thus, the ECU might need replacement.
5. Powertrain Control Module - A trouble with the PCM would mean that it is unable to determine the right fuel mixture and would send the car engine either more or less fuel than it requires. Now when the engine gets more, the carbon emission would increase and fuel economy would drop. In case of the opposite, the engine will choke, stutter, and might start stalling sometimes.
6. Intake Manifold - One of the most intriguing components of the internal combustion engine is the intake manifold. Responsible for the even distribution of the air/fuel mixture to each cylinder, the intake manifold also serves as a mount for the carburettors (on older engines) and fuel injectors (on modern engines). Thus, replace damaged parts now!
7. Diagnostic Tool - Usually any OBD code problem requires deep insight into the problem and high grade tools in order to fix it properly. Thus, buy quality diagnostic tools form us!

It is essential to know the symptoms of an issue as only then you would be able to solve the problem. So that’s why we have listed out some major symptoms of OBD Code P2018 here:

Common Symptoms

• Illumination in the service engine soon light
• Less power
• Decline in fuel economy
• Sometimes there might be misfire

If you wish to correct this fault code, then you have to follow certain steps. Correcting a problem needs your careful attention. Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P2018:

• It is essential to restore the flawed ECM
• Repair or replace the quirky intake manifold runner sensor for bank 1
• The malfunctioning ECU should be repaired or replaced as per the need
• Carefully adjust the faults in the wiring harness or connector to sensor

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If you want to easily diagnose this trouble code, then you must follow the steps which are mentioned here as below:

The advanced steps become very vehicle specific and require the appropriate advanced equipment to perform accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and the specific technical references for the vehicle.

The diagnosis should be started by the visual inspection of system wiring as well as connector. An open circuit can be caused due to corrosion in the IMRC actuator connectors, so it is essential to pay attention to these.

A scanner should be used by a professional technician to notice the freeze frame data, to assemble details about the code. The mechanic can also check to see if there is presence of additional trouble codes. Now if there are a number of codes, then they should be addressed in the same order in which they are appearing on the scanner. After that the mechanic should reset the trouble codes, restart the vehicle, and check to see if the code remains detected. If it does not, then the code was likely triggered incorrectly, or represents an intermittent issue.

Now once the code is reset, access should be gained for IMRC actuator solenoid and IMRC runner position sensor. One can always consult a vehicle information source for checking recommendations for these constituents.

A DVOM should be used to perform a resistance test on both constituents. If the actuator or the position sensor are not as per the specifications set by the manufacturer, then the faulty parts should be replaced and then retest the entire system once again.

If the actuator resistance and sensor resistance are both as per the specifications set by the manufacturer, then a DVOM should be used to check the resistance and continuity on all system circuits. You can always avoid the controller damage; this can be done by disconnecting all related controllers before testing. Repair or restore the shorted or open circuits as per the requirements.

There are some additional diagnostic notes which you should keep in mind. Check the IMR flap binding with the actuator disconnected from the shaft. The screws or rivets that secure the flaps to the shaft may loosen or fall out causing the flaps to bind. Binding can be caused due to carbon coking inside the intake manifold walls.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P2018 Code

• Many a time the mechanics might simply clear the ECM memory codes before inspecting the freeze frame data, so the failure may be duplicated and repaired.
• A failure to clear the ECM codes after the codes are fixed.
• Restoring parts when the wiring has been rubbing through from a loose harness tie down.