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P2071 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Intake Manifold Tuning (IMT) Valve Stuck Closed". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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P2071 is a generic OBD-II trouble code indicating a fault with the intake manifold tuning (IMT) valve stuck closed.
The intake IMT valve is used to tune the airflow inside the air intake manifold. This manipulation of the air flow increases torque at low RPMs. When the IMT valve is stuck closed, the engine control module (ECM) detects this malfunction and causes the P2071 code to be triggered. In addition, the ECM sets the Check Engine Light which is displayed on the dashboard. The Check Engine Light will remain until normal operation is found or the code is cleared.
The most likely causes of the P2071 code are:
The vehicle may exhibit a felt lack of power at lower RPMs. In all cases, the Check Engine Light will be displayed on the dashboard and some cars may exhibit a rough idle.
First, a mechanic will use the scan tool to check what codes are stored in the ECM including any pending or history codes. The technician will note what codes are present as well as each of the code’s freeze frame data to tell what conditions the vehicle was under when the code was set, such as RPMs, temperature, vehicle speed, and more.
All codes will then be cleared to prepare the vehicle for a test drive. On the test drive, the technician will attempt to duplicate the freeze frame conditions for the best chance of the fault code appearing. Next, a visual inspection will be done to look for any obvious signs of broken components or damage in the wiring or intake.
After the visual inspection, the technician will use the scan tool to check the IMT valve position in the datastream and see if it changes as the throttle is operated in the vehicle. The IMT valve will then be removed to check for bound linkage or carbon buildup causing the stuck open position. If the IMT valve is found to be working properly, the wiring will then be tested. If nothing else is conclusive, then the ECM will then be tested.
The most common mistake is an IMT valve replacement when the cause of the fault was actually a wiring issue or carbon buildup. Step-by-step diagnosis is done to prevent replacing good components or overlooking simple causes.
The P2071 code will not prevent the vehicle from driving to a safe location after the code occurs. If the P2071 code is ignored for long periods of time, the IMT valve can fail. If the IMT valve completely fails, it can come apart resulting in pieces being sucked into the engine leading to extreme engine damage. Diagnosis and repair of the P2071 code should be done as soon as possible.
Common repairs for the P2071 code are:
In higher mileage vehicles, there is a good chance of carbon buildup being the cause of the P2071 code. Carbon is a byproduct of gasoline and builds up over the life of a vehicle in the form of a dark sludge. This can cause various components such as the IMT valve to become stuck open or closed or bind linkage. When this occurs, intake cleaners can be used in some cases to remove the carbon and restore proper operation of components. If the carbon cleaner fails to restore operation, then the part must be replaced.
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