P2014 OBD-II Trouble Code: Intake Manifold Runner Pos Sensor/Switch Circuit Bank 1

P2014 trouble code definition

A P2014 trouble code is related to a vehicle’s intake manifold runner control system that adjusts the amount of fresh air pulled into the intake manifold depending on driving conditions. In slower, city traffic, a valve in the intake manifold tends to stay closed and opens to allow more air to flow through during harder acceleration.

What the P2014 code means

P2014 is an OBD-II powertrain code for a voltage issue with the intake manifold runner control system in that the runner flaps that allow the flow of air don’t open according to the manufacturer’s parameters. The bank 1 relates to the bank of cylinders where cylinder one is present.

What causes the P2014 code?

While a P2014 is usually associated with a faulty control solenoid, there can be other causes for the code - mostly all in connection with the system itself. Likely causes include:

• Faulty intake manifold runner control solenoid
• Dirty manifold runner flaps
• Faulty manifold runner flaps
• Exhaust or intake leak

What are the symptoms of the P2014 code?

Some P2014 codes are considered soft because they won’t cause any real symptoms other than maybe reduced performance from the intake being dirty. If the problem persists however, a P2014 can cause a more noticeable lack of power, engine surging or bucking, and a rough idle. Poor fuel mileage can also be a result.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P2014 code?

Diagnosis will depend on how severely affected driving conditions are with the P2014. If it isn’t noticeable, it might just be a matter of clearing the code and giving the car an “Italian tune-up” to try and clear the carbon deposits from the intake flaps all on it’s own. If this isn’t the case, your mechanic will check for other trouble codes first before moving on to the intake manifold runner control system itself as an exhaust or intake leak could be the true cause of the problem.

If a P2014 is the only code present, your mechanic will visually inspect the bank 1 sensor itself to ensure wiring and connections are in good shape with no fraying or damage. Electrical contact cleaner can help clean terminals if necessary but if everything checks out once again, chances are probably high the sensor is sending the wrong voltage/resistance to the engine computer. Your mechanic can test this by having a multimeter connected to the sensor, raising the engine RPM, and monitoring the voltage out to ensure it’s within the manufacturer’s specifications. If not, you’ll have to verify the mechanical aspect of the intake manifold runner control system is functional before replacing the sensor.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P2014 code

Most mistakes when diagnosing a P2014 revolve around hastily replaced sensors when they are not the route cause of the problem. If there is a mechanical issue with the runner flaps, or they’re excessively dirty, a replacement sensor may not cause the code and poor performance to go away. Additionally, if there are other trouble codes relevant to the intake runner system and they’re put off as consequential, you may see a P2014 return from an exhaust or intake leak.

How serious is the P2014 code?

When equipped, intake manifold runner control systems are fairly paramount to a modern vehicle’s functionality. When there is an issue with these, it’s essentially the same as driving around with an faulty intake manifold if your vehicle was older, so it’s important to address a P2014 as quickly as you can. While a solenoid replacement may not be too pricy, an entire replacement of the intake manifold runner control system will be.

What repairs can fix the P2014 code?

The most common repairs for a P2014 are as follows:

• Replacing the intake manifold runner control sensor
• Cleaning the wiring/connection for the intake manifold runner control sensor
• Repairing/cleaning intake manifold runner flaps
• Repairing intake and or exhaust leaks

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P2014 code

Intake manifold runner control systems are present on more modern vehicles - typically younger than 2005. Many Volkswagen, General Motors, Ford and BMW models are equipped with these systems. Some mechanics report these valves needed to be cleaned as early as 50,000 miles too, so make sure your vehicle is up-to-date with its manufacturer’s recommended maintenance.

Need help with a P2014 code?

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