P0244: How to Diagnose & Fix — Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid A Range/Performance
2 vehicles · 2 makes · $50-$5,000 repair
How to diagnose and fix P0244: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
Subaru WRX STI · 2004–2021
The VF-series turbochargers on the STI develop boost leaks at intercooler couplers and charge pipe connections, causing inconsistent boost and reduced power. The internal wastegate actuator also develops a characteristic rattle at idle due to worn pivot pins and flapper valve play. While the rattle is mostly cosmetic, boost leaks cause significant power loss and can trigger overboost or underboost codes.
Common Symptoms
- Inconsistent or low boost pressure
- Hissing sound under boost from engine bay
- Metallic rattle at idle from turbo area
- Loss of power under full throttle
- Check engine light for boost-related codes
- Turbo spooling but not making full boost
How to Fix
For boost leaks: inspect all intercooler couplers, charge pipes, and clamps. Replace cracked silicone couplers ($50-$150 for a set) and upgrade to T-bolt clamps. Perform a boost leak test with a pressure tester ($30-$50 DIY tool). For wastegate rattle: replace the wastegate actuator ($200-$400) or upgrade to an aftermarket external wastegate setup ($400-$800). Some owners simply live with the rattle if boost holds steady.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipBuild a DIY boost leak tester from PVC fittings and a tire valve stem for $30. Test at 20 PSI — you will hear every leak. Most STIs have at least one.
Ford F-150 · 2011–2024
The wastegate on the 3.5L EcoBoost turbochargers fails, either sticking (carbon/corrosion binding the valve and actuator arm) on early vacuum-operated designs or through electronic actuator/position-sensor faults on 2017-and-newer electric-actuator turbos. A stuck-closed wastegate causes overboost (P0234) and a metallic rattle, while a stuck-open wastegate or sensor/actuator faults cause underboost (P0299) and trip the powertrain into reduced-power limp mode. A failed electronic actuator can lead to turbocharger actuator or turbocharger assembly replacement, making it an expensive failure; for a disconnected actuator rod on 2021-2025 trucks Ford released the rod, springs and clips as separate parts (SSM 54392). Ford also issued TSB guidance (e.g., wastegate-arm rattle spring kits on 2017 3.5L) for related linkage slack.
Common Symptoms
- Significant loss of power / limp mode
- Wrench light and 'reduced engine power' warning
- Metallic rattle at startup or when lifting off the throttle
- Boost gauge showing over- or under-boost
- Check engine light with turbo wastegate performance codes
How to Fix
Diagnose the boost-control fault and rule out unrelated causes first (charge-pipe/boost leaks, cracked intercooler pipe, BOV, solenoid, vacuum leaks). On early vacuum-actuator turbos the wastegate actuator/diaphragm or linkage can sometimes be serviced or freed; on 2017+ electric-actuator turbos check for a disconnected wastegate actuator rod first (2021-2025: SSM 54392 rod/spring/clip parts), and replace the turbocharger actuator or turbocharger assembly only if the actuator has failed. Replace oil feed line screens if oil starvation contributed.
Sources for this issue (2)
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P0244 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0244 mean?
P0244 stands for "Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid A Range/Performance." This code indicates the engine computer detected that turbocharger wastegate solenoid A is not performing within its expected range, so boost control is not behaving as commanded. The wastegate solenoid regulates boost pressure by controlling the wastegate; the computer compares actual boost to the target. When the solenoid's performance is out of range, this code sets. It can cause overboost or underboost, reduced power, and possible engine protection mode.
What are the most common causes of P0244?
The most common causes of P0244 are: Faulty turbocharger wastegate solenoid (A), Stuck or seized wastegate actuator, Boost or vacuum hose leak/disconnection, Wiring or connector fault to the solenoid, Faulty boost pressure (MAP) sensor, Restricted or clogged solenoid passages, Faulty turbocharger. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0244?
Repair costs for P0244 range from $50 to $5,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0244?
Au7o has documented P0244 across 2 vehicle models from 2 manufacturers: Ford, Subaru.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.