P2144
EGR Vent Control Circuit Low
Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR)
Generic OBD-II
Low
What it means
P2144 means the PCM detected low voltage (an open or short) in the EGR vent control circuit — the part that vents or controls the EGR valve's actuator. It's primarily an emissions fault, so the car usually still drives normally, though you may notice pinging under load. Carbon buildup, a failing vent solenoid, or wiring trouble are the common causes.
Low
Can I keep driving? Generally safe to drive — mostly an emissions fault, though you may notice pinging under load; get it fixed to pass emissions.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Pinging or knock under load or at higher speeds
- Minor hesitation on acceleration
- Often no noticeable driving symptom at all
Common causes
Most likely first
- Fault in the EGR vent control circuit — open, short-to-ground, or low voltageLikely
- Faulty EGR vent solenoid / vacuum control solenoidCommon
- Carbon buildup restricting the EGR valve or passagesCommon
- Poor connection or corrosion at the solenoid connectorLess often
- Faulty EGR valve or lack of proper feedback to the PCMLess often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and inspect the EGR vent solenoid connector and wiring.
- Try cleaning the EGR valve, tube, and passages before replacing parts — carbon is common.
- Check the solenoid's resistance and control circuit for a short or open.
- Verify vacuum supply and lines (on vacuum-actuated systems).
- If the circuit and solenoid test bad, replace the vent control solenoid/valve and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P2144?+
Usually yes — it's mainly an emissions issue. Persistent pinging under load can stress the engine, so don't leave it indefinitely.
Can I just clear P2144?+
It clears, but returns if the EGR vent circuit or solenoid fault remains; it will also block an emissions test until repaired.
Related codes
Often seen with P2144
Read & clear P2144 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