P2070 OBD-II Trouble Code: Intake Manifold Tuning (IMT) Valve Stuck Open

P2070 code definition

Intake Manifold Tuning (IMT) Valve Stuck Open

What the P2070 code means

When trouble code P2070 sets, the engine control unit (ECU) has determined that the intake manifold tuning (IMT) valve is stuck open. The ECU gets this information from a position sensor that is built into the tuning valve actuator. The IMT valve helps increase engine torque by changing the length of the runner in the intake manifold to match the conditions in which the vehicle is being driven. When the tuning valve gets stuck open, it is possible that the engine may not perform optimally.

What causes the P2070 code?

Trouble code P2070 sets when the engine management computer detects that the intake manifold tuning valve has not moved from the open position when commanded to close.

What are the symptoms of the P2070 code?

• It is possible that you may feel a slight loss of power either in the lower or upper RPM (revolutions per minute) depending on the manufacturer of your vehicle.

• The other symptom is that the Check Engine Light will come on.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P2070 code?

• As always, I start diagnostics with a visual check of the system involved with trouble code. Many times the problem can be identified visually. Sometimes it could be as simple as some rodent damage such as a chewed-through wire.

• I know that some makes of vehicles use small plastic bushings to hold actuator rods for the tuning valve. Oftentimes when this code sets, you will find the plastic bushing nowhere to be found and the actuator rod is hanging loose and not controlling the tuning valve.

• If the actuator rods are still attached, it may be necessary to disconnect the actuator rod and make sure that the valve moves freely and is not binding or stuck. It may be possible for carbon or oil sludge to build up in the intake manifold and cause the valve to become stuck, or bind.

• Once the integrity of the actuator rod and the valve itself are confirmed, it may be time to look at the actuator that controls the valve. Some are vacuum operated, and some may be controlled with electric motors. With the vacuum actuated systems, it will be necessary to confirm that there is vacuum being supplied to the actuator, and then that the vacuum is being controlled by the actuator. For the electronically controlled system you will need a scan tool to be able to see if the position sensor is working correctly.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P2070 code

• The most common mistake would be replacing the IMT valve actuator without performing any visual inspections or diagnostics.

• Another common mistake would be forgetting to check that the valve is not binding or stuck in the manifold itself. If this is the case, it could be an unexpected, very expensive engine repair for the customer.

How serious is the P2070 code?

This code is not too serious. It is possible that you may notice some slight power loss from the engine. Also, depending on your state, this code may fail you for emissions inspection.

What repairs can fix the P2070 code?

• The most common repair for this code in my experience is replacing a missing or broken actuator rod bushing. When the bushing is not in place, oftentimes the actuator rod will fall out of the lever of the intake tuning valve.

• Next would be replacing a faulty actuator valve for the intake tuning valve.

• After that would be some type of repair requiring the intake manifold to be removed and cleaned, or to remove some type of obstruction in the intake causing the valve to stick open.

Need help with a P2070 code?

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