P0049 Turbocharger/Supercharger Turbine Overspeed
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Turbocharger/Supercharger Turbine Overspeed
What does that mean?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, which means that it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles (Dodge, Ram, Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, VW, Toyota, etc.). Although generic, the specific repair steps may vary depending on make/model.
If you have encountered a code P0049 in an OBD-II equipped vehicle, it indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a turbocharger or supercharger turbine overspeed condition. This code could be attributed to a mechanical or an electrical malfunction in the forced air induction (FAI) system.
As forced air induction systems, turbochargers and superchargers are both used to increase engine performance. By design, ambient air is drawn into each type of device, which then compresses the air and forces it into the engine combustion chambers. The method in which they are driven is the most significant difference between the turbocharger and supercharger. While the supercharger is driven by a belt that runs off the engine crankshaft, the turbocharger is driven by engine exhaust. In order to make the air that is introduced to the engine even cooler and denser, FAI systems often use some type of intercooler. A methanol or cold water injection may also be utilized for this purpose.
The boost controller is usually an integrated part of the PCM. Data from engine and transmission sensors is calculated by the PCM to determine the degree of boost pressure required for the engine to perform at an optimum level. To determine whether or not boost pressure meets desired levels, it is monitored (by the PCM) using one or more boost pressure sensors. The PCM compares actual boost pressure with desired boost pressure and activates bypass control valves and/or blow-off valves (as required) to prevent an overboost condition.
Most bypass control valves and blow-off valves are actuated electronically. Prior to attempting a diagnosis for a code P0049, consult a reliable vehicle information source (such as All Data DIY) for information regarding the forced air induction control system for your vehicle.
If the PCM detects a level of boost pressure that is higher than the programmed limit, a code P0049 will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may be illuminated.
Related turbo / supercharger engine trouble codes:
Symptoms & Severity
A genuine turbocharger/supercharger overboost condition could result in severe FAI device and/or engine damage therefore a stored code P0049 should be treated as severe.
Symptoms of a P0049 code may include:
Causes
Potential causes for this code to set are:
Diagnostic and Repair Procedures
A good starting point is always to check for technical service bulletins (TSB) for your particular vehicle. Your issue may be a known issue with a known fix put out by the manufacturer and can save you time and money during diagnosis.
A diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), a reliable vehicle information source (like All Data DIY), and a manual boost pressure gauge will be necessary to diagnose a code P0049.
I like to begin with a thorough inspection of all wiring, turbocharger supply hoses, and vacuum hoses related to the turbocharger and boost control system, when attempting to diagnose a P0049.
Next, I’d continue by connecting the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic connector and retrieving all stored trouble codes. Writing the codes (and pertinent freeze frame data) down may prove helpful later in your diagnosis. After that, clear the codes and test drive the vehicle (if possible) and see if the code is reset. Should the code immediately reset, execute a manual boost pressure test and compare actual findings with manufacturer’s specifications. If actual boost pressure exceeds maximum requirements, suspect a problem in the bypass control system or outlet piping system.
Normal boost pressure for modern forced air induction systems is between nine and fourteen-pounds. If actual boost pressure is within manufacturer’s specifications, suspect a defective boost pressure sensor, a bad PCM, or a PCM programming error. Use the DVOM and your vehicle information source to test the boost pressure sensor and system circuits as needed.
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"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p0049 in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p0049 and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.
Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p0049.
