P0244 Code Meaning and Next Steps

First checks take 10 minutes for basic checks. No special tools are usually needed for the first checks.

Can you keep driving?

Stop driving if any of these apply

!The vehicle suddenly runs much worse, loses power sharply, or the check-engine light starts flashing.
!There is a strong smell, smoke, overheating, or any symptom that suggests a real-time safety problem rather than a stored code alone.

If the light is steady and the vehicle still drives normally: Often yes for a short time, but it should not be ignored if drivability changes are obvious.

What to check first

Step-by-step checks

1
Safety first
Let the engine cool before touching turbo, exhaust, or charge-air parts
2
Free - no tools
Check whether the boost behavior changes after the engine warms up or under steady load
3
Basic tool needed
Inspect the solenoid, hoses, and wastegate linkage for anything sticky, loose, or disconnected
4
Basic tool needed
If the fault appeared after recent service, recheck hose routing and vacuum connections carefully
5
Basic tool needed
Use live data if available to compare commanded boost change with actual response
6
Basic tool needed
Confirm that the solenoid is not physically blocked by dirt, oil residue, or a failed internal valve

If the code returns

-If the actual boost response is lazy or stuck, mechanical movement becomes more likely than just the signal wire.
-If the solenoid works electrically but cannot control air or vacuum flow properly, replace it.
-If the wastegate linkage sticks, repair that before buying a turbo component.

Background

What this code means

P0244 is a generic OBD-II code for a boost control solenoid range or performance issue.

That usually means the ECU commanded a boost change and the system did not respond the way it expected. The cause can be electrical, but a mechanical wastegate or vacuum issue often explains the mismatch more than the solenoid itself.

Diagnosis

Common causes

Most common

Boost control solenoid worn or sticking

The valve may still click but not flow enough air or vacuum to meet the command.

Common

Wastegate movement problem

A sticky actuator can make the control response look out of range.

Common

Vacuum leak or routing error

A leak can prevent the control system from matching commanded behavior.

Possible

Sensor or feedback mismatch

The control side may be fine, but a bad feedback signal can make the ECU think performance is off.

Avoid these mistakes

What not to do

xDo not replace the turbo first if the solenoid or vacuum routing is the obvious issue.
xDo not ignore sluggish actuator movement just because the solenoid still clicks.

Parts

Parts that may need replacing

PartTypical costNotes

Boost control solenoid$40-$180Relevant when the valve moves poorly or cannot regulate boost correctly.

Vacuum hose or line repair$10-$120Often needed when the control loop is leaking or routed incorrectly.

Wastegate actuator$80-$350Worth checking when the range problem comes from slow mechanical movement.

Related OBD codes

P0240

P0240 means the boost control system is not behaving as expected.

P0243

P0243 means the boost control solenoid circuit has a fault.

P0247

P0247 means the boost control solenoid signal is intermittent or unstable.

Source notes

Generic OBD-II (SAE J1979 / ISO 15031-5). P0244 was seeded from dtcdb and then expanded around boost control solenoid range/performance faults, especially weak valve response and wastegate movement problems.

This guide is written as a generic multi-make reference, so bulletin history, sensor locations, and repair order can still change by manufacturer and engine family.

This is generic OBD-II guidance and should not override vehicle-specific service information. Exact diagnosis and repair steps vary by make, engine family, and model year.

Last reviewed: 2026-04-10

Reference: Open reference

P0244 - The Boost Control Solenoid Is Not Performing Within the Expected Range