P022A Charge Air Cooler Bypass Control “A” Circuit Open
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Charge Air Cooler Bypass Control A Circuit Open
What does that mean?
This generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) typically applies to all OBD-II vehicles equipped with a charge air cooler. That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Ford, Chevy, Mazda, Toyota, etc.
In forced inducted systems, they use a Charge Air Cooler or what I am going to call it, an Intercooler (IC) to help in cooling the charge air the engine uses. These work similar to a radiator.
In the IC’s case, instead of cooling antifreeze, it cools air to make for a more efficient air/fuel mixture in turn, better fuel mileage, better performance etc.. The IC is part of the charge pressure side of the induction system. The bypass valve is used just as the name implies, to let the air bypass the intercooler to be dumped into the atmosphere and/or recycled. The Engine Control Module (ECM) uses it to adjust valve according to current engine conditions and needs.
The ECM illuminates the check engine light with P022A and associated codes when it monitors a condition outside of a specific range within the intercooler’s bypass control circuit and/or system. This code may be cause by a mechanical and/or electrical fault. If I had to guess here, I would lean towards a mechanical problems more likely being the problem. That being said either are possible.
P022A Charge Air Cooler Bypass Control A Circuit Open code is set when the ECM detects a general fault and/or open within the circuit.
What is the severity of this DTC?
Severity in this case would be moderate. You don’t want to leave this issue unattended as it could develop into something much more serious fairly quickly. Keep in mind, problems don’t get better over time unless rectified. Engine damage is expensive, almost every time so if you’ve exhausted your abilities, bring vehicle to a reputable repair facility.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P022A engine code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this code may include:
What are some P022A troubleshooting steps?
Be sure to check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) for your vehicle. Getting access to a known fix can save you time and money during diagnosis.
Tools
When working within the forced induction system you may need:
Safety Tips
NOTE: ALWAYS verify and record the integrity of your battery and charging system before further troubleshooting.
Basic Step #1
Locate your charge air cooler bypass control valve by following the charge piping going to your intercooler (IC), it may be mounted directly to charge pipe. Depending heavily on your particular make and model, you may find your IC mounted in your front bumper, front fenders or possibly directly under the hood among many other possible locations. Once valve is located, inspect for any obvious physical damage.
NOTE: Make sure engine is off.
Basic Step #2
It may be fairly simple to remove the valve completely from the vehicle to verify it’s functionality. Especially recommended if code P024B is active. Once removed, inspect for any obstructions in the valve’s range of motion. If possible, clean valve before reinstalling.
NOTE: Always refer to service manual first because this may not be possible or recommended for that matter on your vehicle.
Basic Tip #3
The harness for the bypass valve may be routed through areas that are exposed to the elements. These areas should be inspected closely for nicks, cuts, signs of corrosion, etc. in the wires involved within the circuit.
NOTE: Make sure to disconnect battery before performing any electrical repairs.
Basic Step #4
Depending on your scan tool, you may be able to verify the valve’s functionality by controlling it and observing it’s range of motion. If accessible you could disconnect one end of valve to gain sight of the moving parts. Using your scan tool, open valve completely and close while observing the mechanical operation of the valve itself. If you notice the valve sticking and there is nothing obstructing it, more than likely, the valve is defective. In this case, you can try replacing it. Make sure the manufacturer also recommends a new valve in this case. Refer to manual.
Basic Step #5
You will want to rule out any electrical problem within the harness involved. To do this, you may have to disconnect it at the valve and the ECM. Using your multimeter, verify the integrity of the circuit by performing numerous basic electrical tests (i.e. Continuity). If everything checks out, there may be some input tests you could do involving testing the connector at the valve to verify the ECM functionality with the valve.
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"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p022a in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p022a 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 p022a.
