P0244 – Turbo/Super Charger Wastegate Solenoid “A” Range/Performance

P0244 is a trouble code you usually see on turbocharged or supercharged vehicles when the engine computer isn’t happy with how the boost control solenoid is working. It means the ECU has detected an intermittent or out-of-range signal in the wastegate/boost control circuit, which can cause overboost, underboost, or erratic power delivery. If you’ve noticed a check engine light, reduced performance, or strange turbo behavior, this code is worth taking seriously. With some basic tools and a methodical approach, you can track it down before it causes bigger problems.

What Does P0244 Mean?

P0244 is defined as “Turbocharger Wastegate Solenoid A Range/Performance” or “Turbocharger Wastegate Solenoid A Intermittent” depending on the manufacturer. In plain terms, your ECU is commanding a certain boost level, but the signal it sees from the boost control system doesn’t match what it expects, and it’s happening intermittently or outside the normal range.

This code is tied to the boost control solenoid (often called the wastegate solenoid or boost control valve) and its electrical circuit. It’s especially common on Subaru, VW/Audi, Ford EcoBoost, and other turbocharged setups where precise boost control is critical.

Quick Reference

• Code: P0244
• Meaning: Turbocharger wastegate/boost control solenoid “A” range or performance issue
• Severity: Moderate to high (risk of overboost or engine damage)
• Common Symptoms: Loss of power, overboost, limp mode, check engine light
• Typical Causes: Faulty boost control solenoid, vacuum/boost leaks, wiring issues, sticking wastegate

Real-World Example / Field Notes

In the shop, I see P0244 most often on turbo Subarus that have been modified or driven hard. A typical case: a WRX comes in with a check engine light, rough acceleration, and the owner says it “hits hard then falls flat.” Scan shows P0244, and a quick visual check reveals brittle vacuum hoses and an aftermarket boost controller spliced in. After restoring the factory plumbing, replacing the boost control solenoid, and clearing the code, the car pulls smoothly again and the intermittent overboost is gone.

Symptoms of P0244

• Check engine light (CEL): P0244 will usually store as a confirmed code and illuminate the MIL.
• Loss of power: You may feel reduced acceleration, especially at higher RPMs or under load.
• Overboost or surge: The turbo may spike boost briefly, then drop off or trigger limp mode.
• Limp mode: The ECU may limit boost and throttle response to protect the engine.
• Hesitation or bucking: Inconsistent boost control can cause jerky acceleration.
• Whistling or hissing noises: Vacuum or boost leaks can accompany this code.
• Poor fuel economy: Incorrect boost levels can make the engine run richer than normal.

Common Causes of P0244

Most Common Causes

• Faulty boost control solenoid: Internal failure, sticking, or contamination in the wastegate/boost control solenoid is the top cause.
• Vacuum or boost leaks: Cracked, loose, or misrouted hoses between the turbo, wastegate, and solenoid can throw off boost control.
• Sticking wastegate actuator: A wastegate that binds, sticks, or has a weak diaphragm can cause intermittent boost problems.
• Wiring or connector issues: Corroded pins, broken wires, or poor grounds in the solenoid circuit can cause intermittent signals.
• Aftermarket modifications: Manual boost controllers, tunes, or non-stock turbos can upset the ECU’s expected boost behavior.

Less Common Causes

• ECU software issues: Outdated or poorly calibrated tunes can trigger P0244 even when hardware is fine.
• Faulty MAP or boost pressure sensor: If the sensor sends incorrect data, the ECU may think the solenoid isn’t doing its job.
• Restricted exhaust or turbo damage: Internal turbo wear or a partially blocked exhaust can affect boost response.
• Previous collision or engine work: Misrouted hoses or pinched wiring after repairs can cause intermittent faults.
• Water or oil contamination: Oil mist or moisture getting into connectors or the solenoid can cause performance issues.

Diagnosis: Step-by-Step Guide

To diagnose P0244 properly, you’ll want a basic OBD-II scan tool (ideally with live data and Mode $06), a digital multimeter, a hand vacuum/pressure pump, and basic hand tools. Access to a wiring diagram and boost control layout for your specific vehicle is a big help.

1. Confirm the code and freeze frame data: Scan the ECU, record P0244 and any related codes. Note RPM, load, throttle, and boost at the time the code set. This tells you when the fault occurs (high load, part throttle, etc.).
2. Perform a visual inspection: Check all vacuum and boost hoses around the turbo, wastegate actuator, and boost control solenoid. Look for cracks, loose clamps, missing hoses, or aftermarket tees and controllers.
3. Inspect the boost control solenoid: Locate the “A” solenoid (often near the turbo or on the fender). Check the electrical connector for corrosion, bent pins, or oil contamination. Wiggle the wiring harness and look for rubbing or chafing.
4. Test the solenoid electrically: With the key off, unplug the solenoid and measure resistance across its terminals with a multimeter. Compare to spec from the service manual. An open circuit or very high/low resistance indicates a bad solenoid.
5. Check solenoid operation: Using a scan tool with bi-directional control (if available), command the solenoid on and off while listening/feeling for a clicking sound. If it doesn’t respond, suspect a bad solenoid or wiring issue.
6. Verify vacuum/pressure routing: Use a hand pump to apply vacuum or pressure to the wastegate actuator and watch for smooth movement. Confirm hoses are routed exactly as the factory diagram shows. Misrouted lines are a common DIY mistake.
7. Inspect the wastegate and actuator: Check the actuator rod for binding, rust, or excessive play. If accessible, manually move the wastegate lever to ensure it isn’t sticking in the turbo housing.
8. Check wiring continuity: If the solenoid tests good, perform continuity and voltage checks on the harness from the solenoid back to the ECU. Look for broken wires, shorts to ground, or poor grounds.
9. Review live data and Mode $06: On a road test, monitor boost pressure, commanded boost, and wastegate duty cycle. If available, check Mode $06 data for turbo/wastegate tests. Large deviations between commanded and actual boost help pinpoint the issue.
10. Re-test after repairs: After replacing any components or fixing leaks, clear the code and perform a controlled test drive under similar conditions to confirm P0244 does not return.

Pro tip: If your vehicle is modified (aftermarket intake, exhaust, tune, or boost controller), temporarily return it as close to stock as possible. Many P0244 headaches are caused by tunes or hardware that push the turbo beyond what the factory ECU expects.

Possible Fixes & Repair Costs

Fixing P0244 usually focuses on restoring proper boost control and signal integrity. Common repairs include replacing the boost control solenoid, repairing or replacing vacuum/boost hoses, cleaning or freeing a sticking wastegate, and repairing damaged wiring or connectors. On tuned or modified cars, you may need an updated tune or to remove an aftermarket boost controller.

Typical repair costs vary widely. A boost control solenoid replacement often runs $150–$350 parts and labor. Replacing hoses and fixing small leaks may be $50–$200. Wastegate actuator or turbo-related repairs can climb from $400 up to $1,500+ depending on access and parts. Diagnosis time, dealer vs. independent shop rates, and whether your car is modified all affect the final bill.

Can I Still Drive With P0244?

You can usually drive short distances with P0244, but it’s not something to ignore for long. If the ECU detects overboost, it may cut power or put the car into limp mode, which can be frustrating and unsafe when merging or passing. There’s also a risk of running the engine with excessive boost or improper air-fuel ratios, which can damage pistons, head gaskets, or the turbo over time. If you notice severe power loss, knocking, or heavy smoke, park the car and have it checked immediately.

What Happens If You Ignore P0244?

Ignoring P0244 can turn a relatively simple solenoid or hose repair into major engine or turbo damage. Chronic overboost or unstable boost can lead to detonation, blown head gaskets, cracked ring lands, or a failed turbocharger. Even if the car “still runs,” you’re stressing expensive components every time you drive with uncontrolled boost.

Last updated: February 13, 2026

Vehicles Commonly Affected by P0244

P0244 is most common on turbocharged vehicles where the ECU closely monitors boost control. You’ll frequently see it on Subaru WRX, STI, Forester XT, and Legacy GT models, especially those with modifications. It’s also seen on VW and Audi 1.8T and 2.0T engines, Ford EcoBoost cars and trucks, and some turbocharged GM and Hyundai/Kia models. Any vehicle with an electronically controlled wastegate or boost control solenoid can set this code when the system doesn’t behave as the ECU expects.