Fuel and air

P006E — Turbo/Supercharger Boost Control “A” Supply Voltage Low

Severity: medium Drive with care, to a shop

What P006E means

The engine control module monitors the voltage supplied to the device that regulates boost, such as a boost control solenoid or an electric wastegate or vane actuator. P006E sets when that voltage is lower than expected. The module can then no longer control boost accurately and usually cuts power to protect the engine.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine light on
  • Reduced power and sluggish throttle response
  • Poor acceleration and weak hill climbing
  • Intermittent drivability problems
  • Limp mode activation
  • Unusual turbo noise in some cases

Possible causes

  1. Faulty boost control solenoid (stuck or damaged)
  2. Damaged wiring or corroded connectors in the boost control circuit
  3. Low system voltage from a weak battery or charging problem
  4. Turbo actuator or position sensor fault
  5. Sticking variable geometry mechanism
  6. Charge-air or vacuum leak
  7. Faulty ECM (uncommon)

How to diagnose

  1. Scan for all codes and review freeze frame data for related boost or voltage faults
  2. Test battery voltage with the engine off and running to confirm the alternator is charging properly
  3. Inspect the wiring and connector at the boost solenoid or actuator for chafing, corrosion, oil, and moisture
  4. Check the supply and ground circuits with a multimeter, measuring voltage at the connector with the ignition on
  5. Compare commanded and actual boost using live data
  6. Command the actuator or solenoid with a scan tool and confirm it moves through its full range
  7. Inspect vacuum lines and charge-air hoses for cracks and leaks
  8. If wiring and power are good, test the solenoid or actuator, and only then suspect the ECM

Common fixes

  • Repair wiring or replace damaged connectors in the boost control circuit
  • Replace the faulty boost control solenoid or turbo actuator
  • Replace the battery or repair the charging system if system voltage is low
  • Fix leaks in vacuum lines and charge-air piping
  • Replace or reprogram the ECM only after it is confirmed defective

Questions and answers

What does P006E mean?

The ECM detected low voltage in the boost control “A” supply circuit. The usual culprits are wiring, a connector, the boost control solenoid or actuator, or low system voltage.

Can I drive with P006E?

Briefly and carefully, for example to a shop. Power will probably be reduced, and poor boost control can eventually damage the turbo or engine.

Can a weak battery cause P006E?

Yes, low system voltage can set this code. Check the battery and alternator output first, then move on to the wiring and boost control device.

This is general information about the code. The meaning can differ between makes and models: a scan tool and the repair manual for your car will show the exact cause.