Fuel and air

P2575 — Turbo Boost Control Position Sensor Performance Fault

Severity: medium Drive with care, to a shop

What P2575 means

The engine control unit compares the commanded position of the boost control mechanism (variable geometry vanes or wastegate actuator) with the position sensor signal. When the actual position doesn't match the command, or the signal isn't plausible, P2575 is stored. As a result, the engine can't hold the target boost pressure.

Symptoms

  • Sluggish acceleration and weak response
  • P0299 underboost code stored alongside
  • Black or white smoke under load
  • Check Engine light on
  • Smell of unburnt fuel or noticeable power loss in severe cases

Possible causes

  1. Stuck or carbon-fouled VGT vanes
  2. Failed turbo actuator motor
  3. Boost leak after the turbo
  4. Faulty position sensor
  5. Wiring short to positive, open circuit or corroded connector

How to diagnose

  1. Scan all codes and freeze-frame data; deal with any misfire, mixture or other boost codes first.
  2. Inspect the actuator wiring and connector for damage, corrosion, oil and heat marks.
  3. Check power, ground and reference voltage at the position sensor with a multimeter.
  4. Inspect charge air hoses, clamps and intercooler for leaks, and check the exhaust for leaks.
  5. Run the actuator test with a scan tool and compare commanded and actual position.
  6. Check the mechanism and vanes for free movement, binding or carbon buildup.
  7. Verify oxygen sensor and exhaust temperature readings are plausible where available.

Common fixes

  • Clean carbon deposits from the moving turbo parts
  • Replace the actuator or position sensor and perform the required relearn
  • Repair boost air leaks
  • Repair the wiring or connector
  • Replace the turbocharger if the mechanism is worn or seized

Questions and answers

What does P2575 mean?

The ECU found that the boost control position doesn't match the commanded value, or the sensor signal isn't plausible. The usual culprits are sticking vanes, the actuator, the sensor or wiring.

Can I drive with P2575?

Only briefly and carefully, to a repair shop. Expect reduced power, and incorrect boost can lead to smoke and turbo overheating.

Will cleaning the turbo fix P2575?

If carbon-stuck vanes are the cause, cleaning can help. Rule out wiring, sensor and boost leak problems first.

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.