Codes/brands This Page Will Cover
- P2021 Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Circuit Low
- P2022 Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Circuit High
- P2023 Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Circuit Intermittent
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What Is the P2020 Code?
A P2020 code is an OBD code that relates to the fuel and air metering in your vehicle’s engine monitored by the Power Control Module (PCM). The PCM oversees the Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) to determine the correct position of the runners by using various sensor readings. If the P2020 sets, then the PCM has found an issue with the IMRC in the engine’s bank 2, or number 2 cylinder.
The IMRC system is your engine’s way of generating intake pressure from excess air that is charged and redirected to another cylinder. The way this bouncing of the air charge is very similar to how a turbocharger or supercharger operates in that this operation needs to coincide with the right timing to create additional pressure. The PCM uses these sensor readings to determine the runners’ position to create air turbulence in the intake manifold. So, if the PCM doesn’t detect the proper manifold air pressure, it will set the P2020 code.
More About P2020 And Its Related Codes
Your vehicle continuously monitors the IMRC system for any failure during the Key On Engine Off (KOEO) self-test. If the system detects a broken or out-of-range linkage, then it will then fail the test. This is done by relying on the voltage signals from the Mass Airflow sensor (MAF) and the barometric pressure sensor. Depending on if the circuit itself is low or high, the PCM will set the P2021 or P2022 codes, respectively. If the runner flaps are not in the correct position and allow higher rotations per minute in the intake manifold, then the PCM will set the P2023 code.
What Are the Symptoms of a P2020 Code?
The symptoms you usually can expect when confronted with the P2020 code are that, firstly, your vehicle will set a check engine light on your dashboard. You shouldn’t ignore this light because it indicates that the PCM notices issues with your vehicle that need addressing. Following this, you may notice vibrations coming from the engine caused by the air turbulence that is currently evident in your engine due to the problems with the runner flaps. You also can expect to notice fluctuations and inconsistencies in your engine’s RPM when idle or even a rough idle that can lead to your engine losing power and shutting off when stopped. This also is accompanied by a rougher ride and hesitations with accelerating as your vehicle is not getting the proper air and fuel mixture to operate efficiently. Lastly, you will notice a decrease in your vehicle’s fuel economy.
What Are Some Causes of a P2020 Code?
The cause of a P2020 or its related codes is usually a damaged or defective IMRC solenoid. If the solenoid is incapable of returning signals as intended, then this will cause disruptions in the readings by the PCM and trigger a P2020 or P2021-P2023 code. Sometimes carbon deposits on the manifold runner flaps are the cause of the code and sticking or faulty throttle plates. If the IMRC valves or actuators are defective, then this also will cause any of these codes to be set. Finally, the PCM can sometimes become faulty and cause these codes to appear, although this is the rarest of situations.
How Serious Is the P2020 Code?
Since the P2020 and its related codes deal with failures in the IMRC, this is a severe code because this can cause engine failure. In addition, any disruptions to how your engine receives air and fuel are crucial codes to address because they can lead to much more severe issues. This is why it’s recommended to have your vehicle diagnosed and inspected when this code shows up.
Can I Still Drive with a P2020 Code?
As we mentioned, the P2020 code is potentially very hazardous to the health of your engine as it can lead to immediate damage to engine internals and the intake system. A qualified technician should immediately address any problem that causes a rough idle (like any of these codes) to ensure that the issue doesn’t grow in severity. The worst thing you can do is continue to ignore the code and drive your vehicle in a rough running condition; this can lead to costly repairs should other engine components succumb to pressure and break.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P2020 Code?
It’s not entirely easy to diagnose the P2020 code issue or issues related to codes P2021-P2023 as it requires multiple steps and different wiring and circuit systems. These sorts of issues are best left to qualified technicians who have encountered these codes before. With that said, a technician will usually start by capturing the P2020 code and any other freeze frame data on an OBD code scanner. They then will visually inspect all the wiring and connectors related to the IMRC for damage and inspect all hoses and vacuum lines leading to the intake manifold. Following this, they will test the voltage signals between the IMRC solenoid and the PCM and check that the IMRC valve moves. The technician will then remove the IMRC and check for any damage and test the movement of the plates and valves for looseness.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P2020 Code?
When inspecting the P2020 and its related codes, the technician will begin replacing any damaged or burned wiring around the IMRC. This is followed up by replacing any damaged connectors if needed. Since this process can be pretty delicate and involves various tools, it’s not recommended to DIY this process at home as it can further damage your vehicle. With that said, the technician will also replace any damaged plates or valves or the IMRC solenoid if it’s defective. You can also repair the P2020 issue by replacing damaged or defective IMRC sensors and actuators, as well as defective runner flaps. Following this, you will want to test all system circuits for continuity or resistance and repair the IMRC if that is what’s needed. Finally, you’ll want to clear the code, test drive the vehicle, and rescan to check for the code again. You can find these repair processes in our auto repair guide.
Need Additional Help with Your P2020 Code?
The P2020 and its related codes can be very serious if left untreated. However, taking the proper steps and getting your vehicle to a certified service center will ensure that your car stays running healthy and issue-free.
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