Code P2099 on Chevy Cruze is a sure indicator of an issue with your engine. This fault code usually occurs due to a defective turbocharger or a failed catalytic converter.
In this guide, we’ll examine the possible causes of Code P2099 in Chevy vehicles and how to fix them. Continue reading below as we break down Code P2099’s causes and fixes.
Contents
What Are the Common Causes of Code P2099 on Chevy Cruze?
The common causes of Code P2099 on Chevy Cruze vehicles are a faulty turbocharger, occurrence of a boost leak, and a damaged intake runner actuator. Other possible causes of this code include a faulty O2 sensor, a damaged mass airflow sensor, and failed catalytic converter.
Take note that Chevy’s Cruze cars often experience problems with stability control, engine cooling, fuel system, engine, and brakes, which is why you might see this code. The first generation also had seven recalls. Compared to other models, the second generation of Chevy vehicles is better, with almost no reports of problems.
– Faulty Turbocharger
A turbocharger improves the overall efficiency and performance of your engine. The turbocharger is a two-part compressor that compresses more air flowing into the engine’s cylinder. One of the device’s turbine wheels rests on the exhaust manifold, and the escaping exhaust fumes spin it.
A small shaft connects this turbine wheel to the other compressor wheel, and when it spins, it takes air from the atmosphere and pushes it inside the engine at a higher pressure. The more air that flows inside the engine, the more fuel it will get, leading to more power and higher efficiency. Thus, if there is a loss of power and increased fuel consumption, it means that there is a fault with the turbocharger.
A defective turbocharger will cause the engine to produce a whistling or whine-like noise while in operation. Also, it may result in whitish, bluish, or greyish exhaust fumes from the exhaust manifold. Furthermore, there could be oil leaks from the car, which can lead to further problems for the vehicle.
– Occurrence of Boost Leak
When a boost leak occurs, it will cause pressurized air from the turbocharger to escape back into the atmosphere. It can be likened to vacuum leaks on naturally aspirated engines.
There is no exact location in a vehicle where boost leaks occur; they can happen anywhere. Nevertheless, boost leak signs include the car hesitating to accelerate and increased fuel consumption. Furthermore, if the vehicle makes a hissing sound or experiences a surging idling, this should tell you that a boost leak has occurred.
– Damaged Intake Runner Actuator
Most modern vehicles are equipped with a manifold or runner actuator. The actuator is connected to valves inside the intake runner, and the purpose of the valves is to regulate the quantity of boost that goes through them. The valves operate by closing some runners and opening specific runners so that each one will have equal airflow and pressure.
If the intake runner actuator is faulty, you will notice symptoms such as difficulty starting the vehicle and the engine misfiring. Also, car issues like power loss and the engine light coming on could be due to a damaged runner actuator. Once you notice boost leaks and poor fuel economy while using the vehicle, it means that there is a problem with the intake runner actuator.
– Faulty Oxygen Sensor (O2 Sensor)
A faulty O2 sensor can cause the P2099 to appear in a Cruze vehicle. It could also be why your check engine light has been turned on. Symptoms of a failing O2 sensor include loss of fuel efficiency, a rotten egg smell from the exhaust, and high emission levels.
Once you discover that your engine hesitates, skips, or experiences power loss, you should test for the P2099 code. If the O2 sensor problem continues without getting fixed, it can further damage the vehicle.
– Failed Catalytic Converter
A faulty catalytic converter is a popular reason the P2099 code appears in a Cruze vehicle. Once the catalytic converter begins to make a rattling sound, it means that it has failed. You can check for this rattling sound by tapping the Cruze’s converter with a hammer or mallet.
Also, if you have a clogged catalytic converter, the P2099 code will pop up. A converter that glows red while in use is already defective, and the vehicle will have difficulty accelerating. The exhaust gas will no longer flow freely out of the converter because it is clogged, and this will alter the reading from the downstream oxygen sensor.
How To Fix Code P2099 on a Chevy Cruze Vehicle?
You can fix Code P2099 on a Chevy Cruze vehicle by replacing the turbocharger, repairing the boost leak, or replacing the intake runner actuator. Other remedies for this problem include cleaning or replacing the catalytic converter and replacing the bad O2 sensor.
– Replace the Turbocharger
Once you discover that the turbocharger is faulty, you can purchase and install a new turbocharger yourself. Check into an auto shop to buy the turbocharger that fits your vehicle, or order the component online. After purchasing the turbocharger, the next step is to detach the damaged turbocharger.
Accessing the turbocharger is easy because it sits in front of the engine. You will require tools such as a car jack, jack stands, screwdrivers, T45 and T10 Torx bits, and a socket wrench set to perform the replacement operation.
The process starts with removing the intake and vacuum hoses from the turbocharger. Then remove the exhaust manifold heat shield, the oil feed line (on top of the turbocharger), and the downpipe clamp. Jack up and secure the car using the jack stands. After this, remove the bottom skid plate, the oil return line, and the coolant line, and return the coolant line on top of the turbocharger.
Loosen the bolts on top of the exhaust manifold, and remove the manifold together with the defective turbocharger. Carefully install the new turbocharger and exhaust manifold with the new gaskets. Tighten the exhaust manifold to 71lb-in, and hook up the bottom and top coolant lines, then reassemble the parts to get the new turbocharger working the engine.
However, to avoid making mistakes while replacing the turbocharger, you should get a vetted mechanic to carry out the replacement. Depending on the damage, you could have a local mechanic rebuild the old turbocharger.
– Replace the Intake Runner Actuator
Compared to the turbocharger, the intake runner actuator is more difficult to replace. This is because you must remove the intake runner at the back of the engine and drain the coolant. Typically, you should have an experienced mechanic replace the faulty intake runner actuator at an auto repair shop. However, before taking the vehicle over to the mechanic’s shop, there is something you can do to fix the problem.
You can find the actuator on the driver’s side beside the intake manifold. If the lever is broken or has popped off, you can purchase a new one for $10 to $20. You can replace the popped-off lever by pressing the new one in.
– Repair the Boost Leak
Fixing a boost leak can be more difficult than a damaged turbocharger or intake runner actuator because it is hard to locate where the leak is coming from. Nevertheless, it is easy and cheap to fix once you find it because it is usually a vacuum line or a loose hose clamp.
You will need tools like an intake tester kit, air compressor, flathead screwdriver, air compressor hose with a ball valve, window cleaner or windshield washer fluid, and a boost leak tester kit. To use the boost tester, remove the intake hose between the turbocharger and the air filter. Attach the boost tester to the turbocharger in place of the intake hose, then close the ball valve on the air compressor hose and attach the compressor to the tester kit.
After that, slowly open the ball valve so that it reaches no more than 20psi and close it. Then listen for boost leaks in common leak areas such as the PCV valve, vacuum lines, intake manifold, turbocharger, and throttle body. If you don’t hear anything, spray some windshield washer fluid on each area and check if a bubble is produced. Immediately after you discover the leaking area, replace the cracked hose or tighten the hose clamp.
– Fix the Catalytic Converter
The best remedy for a failed catalytic converter is replacing it. Hire an experienced mechanic to help you detach the damaged catalytic converter and install a new one.
If your catalytic converter hasn’t been producing rattling noises and a sulfuric smell, you may not need to replace the converter entirely. Instead, you can fix the converter by cleaning it with fuel additives (preferably lacquer thinner). Another remedy is to have your mechanic wash the converter, dry it, and reinstall it.
– Replace the O2 Sensor
You should replace a bad O2 sensor with a new one. However, before replacement, use a diagnostic tool to confirm the fault code by comparing the value of the suspected faulty sensor to that of a known working sensor. You might have to check the manufacturer’s data to find the correct data to compare against. After that, unplug the wire connection and unscrew the sensor from its seating using a spanner.
Once the old sensor is unscrewed, replace it with the new unit and tighten it to the recommended torque. When the new sensor is firmly in place, plug in the electronic connector, reconnect the diagnostic tool, and delete any related fault codes. To complete the process, turn on the ignition to confirm that the warning light has been eliminated, then perform a road test.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can a Chevy Cruze Code Be Read?
Yes, a Chevy Cruze code can be read with the right tools, such as a diagnostic tool. You can also use a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner to read the Cruze code. These tools are simple and inexpensive; you can purchase them from a reliable store.
– What Does a Code P0171 on Your Chevy Cruze Mean?
A Code P0171 on your Chevy Cruze means the engine is running on a lean fuel-air mixture. This fault code often results from a dirty or clogged fuel injector, faulty mass air flow (MAF) sensor, faulty fuel pressure regulator, and a defective fuel pump.
Let a professional diagnose and solve the exact problem.
Conclusion
Having read through the guide and the frequently asked questions, you should know the common causes of Code P2099 in a Chevy vehicle.
Here’s a recap of what was discussed above:
- A faulty turbocharger makes the engine experience power loss and increased fuel consumption, so it should be replaced at an auto repair shop.
- A boost leak causes the vehicle to experience difficulty in accelerating.
- Once the location of the leak is determined, it should be repaired by a mechanic.
- A damaged intake actuator, faulty O2 sensor, a damaged mass airflow sensor, and failed catalytic converter can produce the Code P2099 in a Chevy vehicle.
- These components can be repaired or replaced, depending on the degree of damage.
Make sure to bring your vehicle to a trusty professional mechanic for any advanced fixes.
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