Fault code P2263 – turbocharger/supercharger boost system performance problem

Fault code P2263 is called “Turbocharger/Supercharger Boost System Performance Problem” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.

Technical description and explained code P2263

Stored fault code P2263 indicates that the control module (PCM) has detected a problem in the turbocharger or supercharger system. In this case, a performance problem has been detected.

In systems with forced induction, the inlet pressure must be varied and adjusted according to the power required at the time. This is done by using a boost regulating valve. This is monitored and controlled by the engine control module to provide the engine with the ideal fuel/air mixture.

This is accomplished by mechanically adjusting the turbocharger/charger blades. The blades are responsible for adjusting the amount of boost that delivers air into the combustion chamber. If the PCM loses control of the supercharger, it causes the engine to run erratically.

This code indicates a problem with either the fuel system or a faulty turbocharger supercharger system. Both systems directly affect each other’s performance.

Fault code P2263 is set when the powertrain control module (PCM) detects a difference in exhaust pressure. The difference can be either lower or higher than the set threshold.

After that, the controller turns on the check engine light (MIL). And the error is recorded in the memory as a malfunction in the supercharger control system.

It may take several failure cycles for the MIL control lamp on the instrument panel to turn on.

Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions

The main signal that an error P2263 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.

It can also be warning signs such as:

1. The “Check Engine” control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be recorded in the memory as a malfunction).
2. Floating revolutions, as well as attempts to stall at idle.
3. Jerking/missing ignition at idle or under load.
4. Engine cannot be accelerated, boost pressure will drop below normal.
5. Reduced power output of the engine.
6. Increased fuel consumption.
7. Excessive emissions in the form of white or black smoke may come from the exhaust pipe.
8. Increased engine noise, may also be present with ringing and rattling.
9. The vehicle may go into crash mode.

The severity level is medium to high, depending on the symptoms. The P2263 error should not be ignored, as you risk damaging internal engine components. Therefore, it is in your best interest to troubleshoot the forced induction system as soon as possible.

Factors that can cause this error code

The error code P2263 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:

• Failed turbocharger or turbocharger parts.
• Defective boost pressure sensor.
• Leaking turbocharger bypass valve.
• Compressor pressure relief mechanisms are defective.
• Exhaust back pressure sensor has failed.
• Clogged catalytic converter.
• Corrosion causing high resistance in connectors or contacts.
• Worn or shorted wiring.
• Leaking or defective exhaust manifold.
• Clogged or damaged air filter.
• Leaking air in the vacuum system.
• Sometimes the cause is a faulty PCM module.

How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P2263

Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P2263:

1. Read all stored data and error codes with an OBD-II scan tool.
2. Clear the error codes from the computer memory and test-drive the vehicle to find out if the error P2263 appears again.
3. Check the condition of the turbocharger.
4. Check the vacuum lines and exhaust manifold for leaks.
5. Inspect the air filter, it may need to be replaced.
6. Test the connector and wiring for damage, looseness and corrosion.
7. Pay attention to the system’s sensors and valves.
8. Check the PCM module.

Diagnose and repair of problems

Turbines typically spin at incredible speeds of 100,000 to 150,000 rpm. They are intolerant to imbalance or a lack of clean oil in the bearing.

The diagnostic process for the P2263 error is best started with the most common turbo problems. These will require tools such as a vacuum gauge and a dial gauge.

Checking the vacuum

Make sure the engine is running properly, with no ignition skips or codes related to a faulty detonation sensor. Then, check for leaks at the turbocharger outlet, intercooler, and throttle body.

Inspect the intake manifold for leaks of any kind, including vacuum hoses. Remove the lever from the throttle valve. Manually operate the valve, looking for a jammed valve causing a drop in boost.

When looking for a leak, pay special attention to the vacuum tank, which is a frequent cause of this problem.

Measure supercharger pressure, inspect turbocharger

Locate the vacuum with no holes in the intake manifold and install a vacuum gauge. Start the engine. At idle the engine should have a vacuum of 1-1.5 atmospheres. If less than 1 atmosphere then the catalytic converter is defective and will not allow boost.

Quickly accelerate the engine to 5000 rpm and release the throttle, observing the vacuum gauge showing the boost pressure. If the boost pressure rises above 1.3 atmospheres, then the bypass valve is bad.

Stop the engine and let it cool down. Remove the turbine exhaust hose and look inside to make sure the blades are not rubbing the housing. Look for bent or missing blades, or oil in the turbocharger. Rotate the blades by hand, looking for resistance indicating a turbocharger malfunction.

Inspect the oil lines from the cylinder block to the center bearing and the return line from the bearing to the oil pan for leaks. Place a dial gauge on the turbine outlet and rotate the turbine shaft. If the axial play exceeds 0.003, the center bearing is defective.

Wiring and pressure sensor

If after all the checks there is no problem, but code P2263 has not disappeared, the electrical components must be checked. The sensor and associated circuits should be tested.

Disconnect the wiring harness and test the control circuit. Make sure that 12 volts are present in the power circuit. They should show when the ignition is on. If they are not, or if they are present when the ignition is off, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor.

Check that the grounding is secure. Connect the test lamp to the plus side of the battery, and touch the other end to the sensor ground circuit. If the test light does not come on, this indicates a faulty circuit.

On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently

Fault code P2263 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:

• Acura (RDX)
• Audi (A3, Q7)
• Chevrolet (Captiva, Orlando)
• Citroen (C5)
• Ford (C-Max, Connect, Focus, Galaxy, Kuga, Mondeo, Ranger, S-Max)
• Hyundai (ix35)
• Infiniti
• Kia (Sportage)
• Land Rover (Discovery, Evoque, Freelander, Range Rover)
• Mazda (BT-50)
• Mercedes-Benz (C230, GLK220, Sprinter, Viano, W204, W212)
• Mitsubishi (Fuso)
• Nissan (Juke, Pathfinder, Qashqai, X-Trail)
• Opel (Antara, Insignia, Vivaro)
• Peugeot (3008, 308, 508)
• Renault (Duster, Master, Megane, Scenic, Trafic)
• Volkswagen (Golf, Jetta, Tiguan, Touareg)

Fault code P2263 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P006A, P006B, P0381, P0401, P0402, P0404, P1601, P2193, P2279, P3539.

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