OBD2 Error Code P0299: How to Fix It

Medium 1-3 hours High Severity Verified June 2026
Error Code
P0299
Brand
OBD2
Product Type
automotive
Severity
High
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
1-3 hours
OBD2 error code P0299 indicates your vehicle's turbocharger or supercharger is not producing enough boost pressure. This can cause reduced engine performance, poor acceleration, and potential engine damage if left untreated.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code P0299

  1. Scan and Document the Error

    Ensure the engine is off and the parking brake is engaged before connecting the scanner.
  2. Inspect Turbo/Intercooler Hoses

    Allow the engine to cool completely before inspection as turbocharger components get extremely hot during operation.
  3. Test Boost Pressure Manually

  4. Check Wastegate Operation

    Do not force the wastegate arm as this can damage the internal mechanism.
  5. Inspect Air Filter and Intake

  6. Examine Exhaust System

    Exhaust components may be hot even after the engine has been off for some time.
  7. Test Turbo Actuator Solenoid

    Disconnect the battery negative terminal before performing electrical tests on ECU-controlled components.
  8. Clear Codes and Test Drive

    Monitor engine temperature and oil pressure during the test drive, as turbo issues can affect both.

Parts You May Need

Turbocharger boost hoses
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Wastegate actuator
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Boost control solenoid
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Air filter element
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Turbocharger boost hoses
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Wastegate actuator
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Boost control solenoid
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Air filter element
Check Price on Amazon
Turbocharger boost hoses
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Wastegate actuator
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Boost control solenoid
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Air filter element
Check Price on Amazon
Turbocharger boost hoses
Check Price on Amazon
Wastegate actuator
Check Price on Amazon
Boost control solenoid
Check Price on Amazon
Air filter element
Check Price on Amazon
Turbocharger boost hoses
Check Price on Amazon
Wastegate actuator
Check Price on Amazon
Boost control solenoid
Check Price on Amazon
Air filter element
Check Price on Amazon
Turbocharger boost hoses
Check Price on Amazon
Wastegate actuator
Check Price on Amazon
Boost control solenoid
Check Price on Amazon
Air filter element
Check Price on Amazon
Turbocharger boost hoses
Check Price on Amazon
Wastegate actuator
Check Price on Amazon
Boost control solenoid
Check Price on Amazon
Air filter element
Check Price on Amazon
Turbocharger boost hoses
Check Price on Amazon
Wastegate actuator
Check Price on Amazon
Boost control solenoid
Check Price on Amazon
Air filter element
Check Price on Amazon
Turbocharger boost hoses
Check Price on Amazon
Wastegate actuator
Check Price on Amazon
Boost control solenoid
Check Price on Amazon
Air filter element
Check Price on Amazon
Turbocharger boost hoses
Check Price on Amazon
Wastegate actuator
Check Price on Amazon
Boost control solenoid
Check Price on Amazon
Air filter element
Check Price on Amazon
Turbocharger boost hoses
Check Price on Amazon
Wastegate actuator
Check Price on Amazon
Boost control solenoid
Check Price on Amazon
Air filter element
Check Price on Amazon
Turbocharger boost hoses
Check Price on Amazon
Wastegate actuator
Check Price on Amazon
Boost control solenoid
Check Price on Amazon
Air filter element
Check Price on Amazon
Turbocharger boost hoses
Check Price on Amazon
Wastegate actuator
Check Price on Amazon
Boost control solenoid
Check Price on Amazon
Air filter element
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional

Call a professional mechanic if the turbocharger itself needs replacement, if you find internal engine damage, if electrical diagnostics reveal ECU problems, or if you're not comfortable working with pressurized systems. Turbocharger replacement requires specialized tools and expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with P0299 error code?
You can drive short distances at low speeds, but avoid highway driving or heavy acceleration. Continued driving with this code can cause serious engine damage due to improper air-fuel ratios.
What causes P0299 turbo underboost?
Common causes include boost leaks in hoses or intercooler, faulty wastegate actuator, clogged air filter, exhaust restrictions, failed boost control solenoid, or internal turbocharger damage.
How much does it cost to fix P0299?
Repair costs range from $50-200 for simple fixes like hoses or air filter, to $1,500-3,000 for turbocharger replacement. Most issues fall in the $200-800 range for component replacement.
Will P0299 cause my car to fail emissions testing?
Yes, P0299 will typically cause your vehicle to fail emissions testing since it indicates the engine is not operating within normal parameters. The code must be resolved and the readiness monitors reset before testing.
How do I prevent P0299 from happening again?
Regular maintenance including timely oil changes, air filter replacement, and using quality fuel helps prevent turbo issues. Avoid aggressive driving when the engine is cold and allow proper cool-down time after spirited driving.