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Decreased performance, boost/wastegate solenoid to blame?

6372 Views 26 Replies 13 Participants Last post by  kampto
2017 with ~25k miles and I was getting on the freeway when it felt like the engine power was cutting in and out. ALmost like boost was fluttering (best way I can describe it). Got out of the throttle and it smoothed out, but immediatly got a CEL. Car was driving fine, so babied it the short drive home. Checked the CEL and it showed P0299 for low boost condition.

Cleared the CEL and went for a drive to see if it would come back. Couldnt recreate the event or the CEL, but the car is noticably slower to respond, seems like it takes much longer to build boost and power. Took it to the dealership to diagnois, and they said it was fine, measure peak boost at ~34psi so doesn't seem to be leaking.

Only had the car for about 8 months so still learning the mechanics, but from what I've learned is that boost/wastegate solenoid (seems like the same part goes by different names?) could be to blame.

Would it be possible that instead of the solenoid not allowing full boost, could it be reacting slowly? So it still allows full boost, as the dealership measured, but just taking twice as long? Also, any tips on how to replace it would be appreciated as well! Thanks!
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If the boost control solenoid is not operating then the boost will likely be restricted to spring pressure which is about 12psi which would make the car seem slow

It’s mounted on side of the engine (timing chain end), remove it and test it. Put a current across the solenoid and you should hear it operating and should be able to blow air through when powered up and opened
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Hence why I advised op to pull the solenoid and test it
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