HomeTrouble CodesP0045

P0045 — Turbochargersupercharger Boost Control Circuitopen

Generic OBD-II · all makesPowertrain (engine & transmission)

P0045 means the engine control module has detected an open circuit in the electrical path that controls the turbocharger or supercharger boost-pressure regulating solenoid. This usually prevents the solenoid from being commanded properly, so the boost-control system cannot modulate turbo/supercharger output as intended.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Faulty boost control solenoid

The solenoid valve itself can fail internally with an open coil or stuck plunger, breaking the commanded circuit and setting the code.

2. Wiring or connector fault in the control circuit

An open, broken, corroded, or disconnected wire or pin in the solenoid harness interrupts the signal or ground path between the PCM and the solenoid.

3. Vacuum line or actuator problem

Leaks, cracks, or disconnections in the vacuum hoses, or a binding wastegate actuator, can prevent proper boost control and may be misread as a circuit issue.

4. Poor power or ground supply

A blown fuse, damaged relay, or weak ground to the boost-control solenoid can cause the circuit to appear open even when the solenoid is good.

5. PCM failure

A genuinely failed output driver in the PCM is possible but uncommon; it should only be considered after the solenoid, wiring, and power/ground have been verified.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Inspect the boost-control solenoid, connector, and wiring for visible damage, corrosion, or disconnection
  2. Check the solenoid coil resistance and compare it to the manufacturer specification
  3. Test for battery voltage and a good ground at the solenoid connector with the key on
  4. Use a scan tool to command the solenoid on/off while monitoring operation and voltage response
  5. Inspect vacuum hoses and the wastegate actuator for leaks, cracks, or binding
  6. Consider PCM driver testing or substitution only after confirming the circuit and solenoid are healthy

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Frequently asked

Can I keep driving with P0045?

Short trips are usually possible, but the vehicle may be in limp mode with reduced power. Continued driving can strain the turbocharger and reduce performance, so it should be diagnosed soon.

Will this code cause turbo damage?

The code itself does not usually damage the turbo, but incorrect boost control from a stuck wastegate or failed solenoid can lead to overboost or underboost conditions that may stress engine components.

Do I need to replace the PCM for P0045?

Usually no. PCM failure is one of the least likely causes for this code. Most cases are due to a failed boost-control solenoid, wiring fault, or vacuum/actuator issue. The PCM should only be suspected after the circuit and components have been thoroughly tested.

Is the same diagnosis used for supercharged engines?

Yes. The diagnostic approach is the same whether the vehicle is turbocharged or supercharged, because the code refers to the boost-control solenoid circuit rather than the compressor itself.