P0046 on RAM
Turbocharger/Supercharger Boost Control 'A' Circuit Range/Performance
P0046 on RAM vehicles indicates turbocharger/supercharger boost control 'a' circuit range/performance. Au7o has documented this code across 1 RAM model — most commonly on 2500. P0046 is a generic powertrain code indicating a range/performance problem in the turbocharger or supercharger boost-control 'A' circuit — the computer's commanded boost-control signal does not match the actual measured response. This means the boost-control solenoid or actuator is responding too slowly, sticking, or producing implausible feedback rather than a clean electrical short or open. The driver may notice reduced power, surging boost, or a limp mode along with a check engine light. It should be diagnosed to restore proper boost regulation and protect the engine. Typical repair costs on RAM range from $450 to $1,900, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0046
- •Sticking or worn boost-control solenoid/actuator
- •Carbon-fouled or binding variable-geometry turbo vanes
- •Vacuum leak or restricted vacuum line to the actuator
- •Wiring/connector resistance affecting the control signal
- •Boost pressure sensor inaccuracy
- •Worn turbocharger affecting boost response
P0046 on RAM by Model
RAM 2500(1 issue)
- 6.7L Cummins VGT Turbo Actuator Failure2007-2024
The Holset HE351VE variable-geometry turbocharger uses an electronically controlled actuator (the geartrain and control board that moves the vane sliding ring) that is a well-documented failure point, often before 100k miles. Soot and carbon buildup, rust/corrosion binding the vane arm, worn actuator gears, or a corroded circuit board (from coolant/water intrusion) cause the actuator to stop positioning the vanes correctly. The truck then either spools quickly but chokes at mid/high rpm or spools slowly with a big loss of low-end torque, and typically drops into limp mode. Owners on Cummins forums report repeat failures and note the unit must be scan-tool programmed to the specific turbo after replacement.
Looking for P0046 on a different make?
View P0046 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0046 mean on RAM?▼
P0046 stands for "Turbocharger/Supercharger Boost Control 'A' Circuit Range/Performance." P0046 is a generic powertrain code indicating a range/performance problem in the turbocharger or supercharger boost-control 'A' circuit — the computer's commanded boost-control signal does not match the actual measured response. This means the boost-control solenoid or actuator is responding too slowly, sticking, or producing implausible feedback rather than a clean electrical short or open. The driver may notice reduced power, surging boost, or a limp mode along with a check engine light. It should be diagnosed to restore proper boost regulation and protect the engine. On RAM specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0046 on RAM vehicles?▼
Common causes on RAM: Sticking or worn boost-control solenoid/actuator, Carbon-fouled or binding variable-geometry turbo vanes, Vacuum leak or restricted vacuum line to the actuator, Wiring/connector resistance affecting the control signal, Boost pressure sensor inaccuracy. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0046 on a RAM?▼
Repair costs on RAM range from $450 to $1,900, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which RAM models have P0046 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0046 on 1 RAM model: 2500.