Check engine light?

Tiny
ARINB
  • MEMBER
  • 2018 CHEVROLET TRAX
  • 1.4L
  • 4 CYL
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 80,000 MILES
Check engine light came on it was under boost code. The turbocharger was replaced, then a day later on again it showed catalytic converter that was replaced, now a day later it's on again. RPMs all over the place, loss of power, also coolant was bubbling before any of this happened.
Sunday, March 12th, 2023 AT 10:27 AM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,700 POSTS
Hi,

Was the engine overheating when the coolant was bubbling? If it wasn't, we may have a head gasket issue.

By chance, have you scanned the can-bus to determine what codes are present? If not, do that first.

Here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/can-scan-controller-area-network-easy

Next, when the engine is cold, remove the radiator cap and see if coolant is forced out while it is cold. Also, place your hand over the cap location to see if there is air being forced out.

Take a look at this link. It explains how to check for a head gasket issue. I'm not saying this is the cause, but based on the description, it could be.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

Let me know.

Joe
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Sunday, March 12th, 2023 AT 3:14 PM
Tiny
ARINB
  • MEMBER
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The engine was not overheating, the codes reading were p0299 first and they replaced the turbo, turbo under boost vein stuck. Next code after waw p0420 and a new catalytic converter was put in. Drove fine for 2 days now code 0299 back and RPMs fluctuating and having a hard time accelerating.
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Sunday, March 12th, 2023 AT 4:35 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,700 POSTS
Hi,

The code that returned, P0299 is related to low boost pressure. The ECM detects that the actual boost pressure is less than the desired boost pressure.

Here is what I suggest at this point. You should return the vehicle to the place that repaired the P0299. I suspect they left something loose, or something has come disconnected causing the low pressure and the erratic running.

Also, the idea of the bubbling coolant has me concerned especially since it wasn't overheating. Compressed air may have gotten into the cooling system at some point. They need to be aware of this happening as well.

I have two final thoughts related to the turbo issue. To replace the turbo, they had everything apart. There is a lever between the wastegate and the actuator rod that needs proper adjustment. Insufficient preload between the wastegate lever and actuator rod may allow the wastegate to open slightly when commanded closed, and result in P0299 being set.

Also, the charged air cooler connects the turbocharger to the throttle body with flexible ductwork. The tubing/ductwork requires the use of high-torque fastening clamps. The clamps can't be replaced with anything different because they can cause a leak. The clamps need to be properly tightened and positioned.

Sorry for so much technical jargon. I'm not sure who fixed it which leads me to question if the aforementioned things were recognized. You can ask them if they were done.

Let me know if I can help.

Take care,

Joe
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Sunday, March 12th, 2023 AT 7:10 PM
Tiny
ARINB
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thank you so much! It was the dealership as the car was covered under some warranty.
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Sunday, March 12th, 2023 AT 7:25 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,700 POSTS
Hi,

Absolutely, go back. They didn't fix it. LOL, If it is under warranty, it's their responsibility to get it fixed properly.

If you have a chance, let me know what you find out from them.

Take care,

Joe
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Sunday, March 12th, 2023 AT 7:44 PM

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