P0243
Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Actuator A
Turbo / boost control
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P0243 means the engine computer has detected a fault in the turbocharger wastegate control solenoid (A) circuit. This solenoid regulates boost pressure, so a fault can cause low or excessive boost, reduced power and poorer fuel economy. The engine still runs, but performance suffers and a hard overboost may trigger limp mode.
High
Can I keep driving? You can drive it, but expect low power or turbo lag; an overboost fault may drop the engine into limp mode, so fix it soon.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Reduced power or turbo lag
- Over-boost or under-boost
- Poorer fuel economy
Common causes
Most likely first
- Failed wastegate control solenoidLikely
- Damaged wiring or a faulty connector in the circuitCommon
- Corroded electrical connectionsCommon
- Cracked or leaking vacuum/boost hose to the wastegate actuatorLess often
- Failed ECM (rare)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Inspect the wastegate solenoid connector and wiring for damage or corrosion.
- Test the solenoid's resistance and operation, and check its vacuum/boost hoses for leaks.
- Confirm the wastegate actuator moves freely and isn't seized.
- Replace the wastegate control solenoid if it fails testing.
- Only consider the ECM after the solenoid, wiring and hoses check out.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0243?+
For gentle driving, usually — but boost control is compromised, so power may be low and a hard overboost can trigger limp mode. Avoid heavy throttle until it's fixed.
Can I just clear P0243?+
It will return once the ECM commands the wastegate solenoid and sees the fault again. The solenoid or its wiring needs repair.
Related codes
Often seen with P0243
Read & clear P0243 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX