Fuel and air

P2563 — Turbo Boost Control Position Out of Range/Performance

Severity: medium Drive with care, to a shop

What P2563 means

The engine control module compares the signal from the boost control position sensor (on the wastegate or variable geometry turbo actuator) with the commanded position. If the position is out of range or does not follow the command, it sets P2563. The cause may be the actuator or sensor itself, a mechanical sticking problem, vacuum leaks or wiring faults.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine light on
  • Noticeable loss of power
  • Underboost or overboost
  • Limp mode with limited RPM and load
  • Unusual whistling or turbo noise
  • Hesitation during acceleration

Possible causes

  1. Failed boost control actuator
  2. Wastegate or VGT vanes stuck from carbon buildup
  3. Boost leak in the intake tract after the turbo
  4. Faulty actuator position sensor
  5. Damaged wiring or corroded connector pins
  6. Cracked or disconnected vacuum lines, or a bad control solenoid
  7. ECM fault (rare)

How to diagnose

  1. Scan all codes and freeze frame data and look for other boost-related codes
  2. Compare specified and actual boost and actuator position in live data
  3. Inspect intercooler pipes, clamps and vacuum lines for cracks and leaks
  4. Check actuator rod movement over its full range, by hand or with a scan tool command
  5. Check whether the wastegate or VGT mechanism is seized by carbon
  6. Inspect actuator wiring and connector, and test power, ground and signal
  7. Test the control solenoid and vacuum pump if the actuator is vacuum-operated
  8. Clear the code and road test while monitoring boost

Common fixes

  • Replace vacuum hoses or repair intake leaks
  • Clean and free a sticking wastegate or VGT mechanism
  • Replace the actuator or its position sensor
  • Repair the wiring and connector
  • Replace the turbocharger if the mechanism is worn or cannot be repaired

Questions and answers

What does P2563 mean?

It means the boost control position does not match what the ECM commanded. Common culprits are the wastegate or VGT actuator, its position sensor, the vacuum system or a boost leak.

Can I drive with code P2563?

Briefly and carefully, yes, but expect reduced power. Overboost can harm the engine and turbo, so get it diagnosed soon.

Can I just clear P2563?

Clearing it only turns the light off for a while. If the cause remains, the code will return and the turbo will keep running incorrectly.

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.