P2015 Code: Intake Air Control Issue (Causes and How to Fix)

Modern engines often use variable intake manifold systems to optimize performance and efficiency across different engine speeds. However, these sophisticated systems can sometimes trigger fault codes like P2015, indicating issues with the intake manifold runner position sensor or control valve.

Keep reading to learn what exactly a P2015 code means, what caused it to trigger, associated symptoms, and the steps needed to diagnose and resolve the problem effectively.

Key Takeaways

DTC P2015: Points to a problem with the engine's intake air control system.
What to do: While not an emergency, get the issue checked soon, even if your car seems to run fine. Ignoring it could lead to engine trouble.
Possible causes: Bad sensor, damaged wiring, or a faulty air control valve in the intake system, among others.

Table of Contents

What Does Code P2015 Mean?

OBD-II Trouble Code P2015 Description

Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor Range (Bank 1)

Diagnostic fault code P2015 is indicative of a difference in actual intake manifold runner position, and the position requested or anticipated, by a vehicle’s PCM/ECM. The feedback that allows determination of the engine’s intake manifold runner position is provided via the intake manifold position sensor or intake manifold runner control (IMRC) valve.

Fault code P2015 is specific to vehicles equipped with engines featuring variable intake runners. These runners, when actuated, open and close to modify the flow of air throughout an engine’s intake manifold.

Depending upon positioning, these runners can either restrict airflow across the intake itself or allow more direct airflow, thereby increasing upstream intake volume for combustion.

When attempting to understand diagnostic fault code P2015, it’s important to recognize that this fault can be of either an electrical or mechanical origin. Likewise, DTC P2015 can stem from an inability to actuate an engine’s intake runners physically, or, can arise from erroneous feedback delivered by the IMRC valve itself.

Based upon these potential variances in the cause of diagnostic fault code P2015, it’s extremely important to be as thorough as possible when attempting to reach an accurate diagnosis. Misdiagnosis of DTC P2015 is relatively common and can lead to money being wasted on unnecessary repairs.

Therefore, if you’re not confident in correctly diagnosing the issue, it’s best to get professional help.

Symptoms of Code P2015

It is not uncommon for vehicles with active intake runner control faults, such as DTC P2015 to exhibit one or more secondary symptoms. Some of these symptoms can even negatively affect a vehicle’s driveability, if severe enough.

Illuminated check engine light
Poor or reduced engine performance
Reduced fuel economy
Potential logging of secondary “rich” combustion faults

Causes of Code P2015

Diagnostic fault code P2015 can be caused by one of several different potential underlying issues. The difference between timely repair and extensive aggravation often comes down to your ability to properly diagnose the underlying issue.

Here are several of the most common causes of DTC P2015.

Faulty intake manifold position sensor
Compromised wiring within the intake manifold position sensor circuit
Inoperable or failing IMRC actuator/solenoid
Additional intake manifold related issues
Potential ECM/PCM failure

Is Code P2015 Serious?

Though you may initially be inclined to believe that fault P2015 is of little consequence, the opposite actually rings true. In many cases, continued operation of a vehicle in this state can lead to noticeable power loss and excess fuel consumption. If any symptoms do appear, they’re unlikely to get better on their own.

It is worth mentioning, however, that under certain circumstances, a vehicle can continue to operate without any noticeable symptoms, despite an actively logged P2015 fault.

Nonetheless, the presence of this fault should not be ignored, as the resulting “rich” condition can prove detrimental to overall engine health with time. At the very least, this problem could shorten the life of your car’s catalytic converter.

In any event, you should make it a priority to diagnose the root cause of your vehicle’s P2015 fault as soon as possible. Doing so will minimize the risk of potential engine damage and worsening driveability-related symptoms, while also restoring fuel economy to a more respectable range.

If you don’t feel comfortable attempting such repairs yourself, an appointment should be made with a trusted automotive service center.

How to Fix Code P2015

The following steps can be used to assist in diagnosing and repairing the root cause of diagnostic fault code P2015. It is also advisable to consult a factory-specific service manual for your particular model of vehicle before delving headlong into the diagnostic process.

#1 – Scan for Additional DTCs

Before beginning the diagnostic process, check for the presence of additional diagnostic trouble codes. Additional faults should be diagnosed based on priority before continuing.

#2 – Visually Inspect IMRC/Wiring

Begin by carefully inspecting your vehicle’s Intake Manifold Runner Control valve for obvious signs of damage. At the same time, the connector to this valve and all associated pins should be carefully inspected. Any such damage that is discovered should be repaired or replaced before proceeding.

#3 – Verify IMRC Valve Operation

Next, you should verify IMRC valve operation with a multimeter or scan tool. In either scenario, input/return signal voltages will need to be compared to that specified by a vehicle’s manufacturer in pertinent service literature. If all tests are within specification, clear the offending fault, and test drive the vehicle in question.

#4 – Check for Runner Binding

Any out-of-specification readings taken during step #3 will necessitate further inspection. Before condemning the vehicle’s IMRC valve, you should first verify that the intake’s runners are not binding. This will require the removal of the IMRC itself before the intake’s runners can be manually actuated.

The inability to manually actuate these runners, or apparent binding when attempting to do so, will require intake runner replacement. This often necessitates the replacement of the intake manifold in its entirety.

#5 – Replace Faulty IMRC Valve

If earlier testing has indicated a lack of IMRC valve actuation, yet the engine’s intake runners can be actuated by hand, the IMRC power supply and ground should again be verified. Assuming these inputs are present, the IMRC valve will need to be replaced.

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Josh Boyd

Josh has worked as a full-time mechanic for over 12 years, with 6 ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications under his belt. He began his career as an automotive technician at local Toyota dealership and has since transitioned to specializing in diesel trucks and equipment.

P2015 Code (Symptoms, Causes, and How to Fix)