Meaning of a P0234 Generic OBD2 Code
The technical definition of the P0234 code is: Turbocharger/Supercharger ‘A’ Overboost Condition
This code is present on vehicles equipped with forced-induction, either in the form of a turbocharger or supercharger. This generic OBD2 trouble code can be observed on a variety of import and domestic vehicles equipped with gasoline or diesel engines.
Vehicles with forced-induction are designed to suck in tremendous amounts of air to boost power, torque, and overall engine performance. The boost pressure increase with the speed of the motor or engine rpm. In order to regulate the boost pressure, the engine utilizes a wastegate valve (learn more about how wastegates work). When the wastegate valve is open, it directs the exhaust gasses away from the spinning turbo blades to prevent increasing the boost pressure.
And since the P0234 generic DTC has something to do with an overboosted engine, the root of the problem is most likely traced to a sticking or broken wastegate valve.
Related DTC codes: P0234, P0235, and P0238
Gerard Burke made a good video showing how to tear down a turbo and troubleshoot this code properly!
What are the causes of the P0234 DTC?
A sticky or bad wastegate valve is partly to blame for this code. The problem can also be linked to a broken or damaged wastegate hose, or a faulty boost controller. But in the absence of related trouble codes, the P0234 OBD2 trouble code can usually be remedied by replacing the wastegate valve.
If you’ve got a diesel engine (and experience with turbos) open up your turbo and check for soot and buildup causing parts not to more freely.
What are the symptoms of a P0234 OBD-II code?
An overboosted motor will produce a slew of symptoms. This includes: a check engine light, a general loss of engine power or poor engine performance, and a knocking sound in the engine. The latter is not a good sign. It means the engine is displaying symptoms of pre-ignition, which causes expensive damage when left unchecked.
- Check engine light displaying P0234 or multiple codes
- General loss of engine power
- Black smoke
In some cases, you will notice signs of engine overheating with the P0234 DTC. Other vehicles may experience rough shifting or a problematic transmission. However, this doesn’t mean there’s a problem with the transmission, but rather the transmission is having a hard time to come up with the inaccurate readings of the overboosted motor.
But on some vehicles (particularly diesel RAM trucks), the check engine light and code are only present when the vehicle is idling. The check engine light will disappear once the vehicle reaches cruising speed. Since the symptoms will vary from mild to wild, it is always best to consult a competent mechanic to have the problem rectified at the soonest possible time.
How much does it cost to fix a P0234 fault?
The actual cost depends on the type of vehicle and the severity of the issue. If the problem is a bad or sticking wastegate valve, expect to spend around $100 to $300 to fix the problem. The cost will be lower if the issue is a broken or leaking hose. Sometimes the mechanic has the give the turbo a good cleaning and this can cost $300-$600 depending on shop labor.
It also helps to check all hoses from the vacuum pump to the wastegate controller. Repair or replace all faulty or broken hoses if necessary. If your vehicle is still under warranty, head straight to the dealership to make a claim. For older vehicles requiring a new wastegate valve, it is better to replace all related hoses to ensure trouble-free operation.
Mike