What Is the P2006 Code?
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The P2006 code indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has requested the intake manifold runner control (IMRC) to open, but the sensor has noted that the IMRC actuator is stuck in the closed position. In some vehicles, this specific code is related to Bank 1, which means that the IMRC actuator for engine bank 1 is the actuator that won’t open.
More About the P2006 Code
The IMRC system opens and closes various metal butterfly valves within the intake manifold. This allows your PCM to manage and fine-tune the airflow within the intake manifold and combustion chambers. By restricting the airflow, it allows the engine to more effectively atomize the air/fuel mixture that allows the vehicle to run. This is also only one of the sensors that the PCM manages with regard to the IMRC system.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P2006 Code?
The first thing you’ll likely notice with the P2006 code is the check engine light coming on. Outside of that, this problem causes there to not be enough air within the engine and too much fuel. That means you’ll have a rich exhaust and diminished fuel efficiency. This code can also cause hesitation when accelerating, as well as a rough idle and engine surge issues.
What Are Some Causes of a P2006 Code?
If there’s open or shorted wiring within the solenoid control circuit for the IMRC actuator, then it can cause this problem. One of the more common causes is carbon buildup somewhere within the IMRC system, especially on the IMRC flaps or on the intake manifold ports. You may also have a faulty MAP sensor. The IMRC actuator may have simply failed, in which case you’ll need to replace it. In Mercedes brands, the vacuum-operated solenoid can cause the connecting rod to break, causing this code. In very rare cases, it may also be due to a failure of the PCM itself.
How Serious Is the P2006 Code?
Assume that the P2006 code is very serious. While it may not be massively impacting your drivability, your diminished fuel efficiency will definitely be an expensive side effect of this code. Additionally, running a vehicle especially rich for a long period of time can cause buildup and idling issues, and that can cause damage that will be more expensive and difficult to repair.
Can I Still Drive with a P2006 Code?
As long as the car is still running and doesn’t seem to be having major drivability issues, you can almost certainly drive your vehicle to the repair shop to get it looked at. However, experts don’t recommend leaving this code and driving around with it. The harder you run your car, the more likely you’ll be to have potential issues with this code, which might even extend to long-term concerns.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P2006 Code?
The underlying problem with the P2006 code can be very difficult to find. This is mostly because the IMRC system is often different for every car manufacturer, and it’s usually hidden under a mess of wires within your engine. If you’re seeing this code within your engine, then it’s best to talk to an expert about it, as the diagnosis process is often too complicated for a DIYer to fix on their own.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P2006 Code?
Most of the time, the pieces you’ll need to inspect for a P2006 code are going to be hidden underneath other pieces of the engine. The inspection process for the P2006 code can be very tedious and difficult to do, which is one of the reasons experts don’t generally recommend that you do it yourself. Additionally, these pieces can be difficult to understand, and you may need to know more about the vehicle than the average DIYer to get a handle on them.
Need Additional Help with Your P2006 Code?
The IMRC system is complex, and to make things even more complex, each automaker often has its own IMRC system design. That means you need to know how to understand the design for the specific make and model of your car, as well as being able to go through the list of possible causes and check for each one in the right order. This is why an expert can be such a great choice for your P2006 code.
If you’re looking for a local expert, then you can find a repair shop in your area with KBB. Whether you’re a skilled DIYer and you only need someone to help you with more difficult car fixes, or you don’t like fixing your own car at all, a local expert can work with you to keep your car running smoothly.
Additionally, this isn’t the only code your engine may throw over time. Check out the KBB OBD-II database to learn more about all sorts of engine codes.
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