Charge Air Cooler (Intercooler) Pressure Drop Excessive

What this code means

The pressure drop across the intercooler exceeds the expected threshold, indicating a restriction or leak in the charge air path.

Symptoms

• Check Engine Light
• Reduced boost pressure at intake
• Turbo works but power is still low
• Hissing noise from intercooler area
• Oil residue around intercooler hoses
• Poor high-load performance

Common causes

• Intercooler internal blockage
• Intercooler core damage
• Charge pipe leak or crack
• Intercooler hose clamp loose
• Debris impacting intercooler core

Diagnostic steps

1. Measure pressure at turbo outlet and throttle body
2. Pressure test intercooler system
3. Inspect intercooler hoses and clamps
4. Check intercooler core for physical damage
5. Look for oil contamination in intercooler

Repair notes

Replace or repair intercooler. Tighten or replace charge air piping. If oil contamination is excessive, check turbo shaft seals.

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