Fix P2005: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The P2005 means the Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) for Bank 2 is stuck in the open position. The IMRC system is designed to optimize airflow to the engine by opening and closing flaps in the intake manifold based on engine speed and load. When these runners are stuck open, it can lead to a variety of engine performance issues, including reduced fuel efficiency, compromised power, and increased emissions. This condition requires timely diagnosis and repair to prevent further engine complications.

P2005 quick overview

Meaning	P2005 – Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open Bank 2
Is it serious?	Yes, this issue can significantly impact engine performance and emissions.
Possible causes	– Faulty IMRC actuator or solenoid – Obstructed or damaged intake manifold runner flaps – Vacuum leaks affecting the IMRC system – Wiring or electrical problems in the IMRC circuit
How to diagnose?	Inspect the IMRC actuator and solenoid for proper operation. Check the intake manifold runner flaps for physical damage or obstruction. Test for vacuum leaks that could prevent the IMRC system from functioning correctly. Examine the electrical wiring and connectors for damage or poor connections. Use a scan tool to activate the IMRC system and monitor its operation.

How to fix P2005 – learn from mechanics

I looked into P2005 service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.

Case #1: Ford

Vehicle Information 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Limited 4.6L

Issue + Repair History

• Grinding noise heard when activating runners with scan tool.
• Linkage moves with grinding noise, indicating possible stripped IMRC gears.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P2004: Bank 1 manifold runner stuck open
• P2005: Bank 2 manifold runner stuck open
• Checked PIDs and found them okay.

Mechanic Suggestions

• Disconnect linkage to check if it moves freely, indicating a bad actuator.
• Fill intake with carb cleaner to degunk and clean, especially if the linkage moves freely.
• Verify if spraying cleaner onto the linkage repairs the codes.

Final Fix

• Confirmed stripped IMRC gears and cleaned out gunk as a precautionary measure.

Case #2: Audi

Vehicle Information 2012 Audi A7 Quattro 3.0L

Issue + Repair History

• Hard fault codes P2004 and P2005: Intake Manifold Control Bank 1 and 2 runner control stuck open.
• Difficulty accessing solenoid valves due to space constraints with the supercharger.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P2004: Intake Manifold tuning valve (Stuck Open) Bank 1
• P2005: Intake Manifold tuning valve (Stuck Open) Bank 2

Mechanic Suggestions

• Check access to solenoids and inspect vacuum supply lines.
• Verify functionality of control solenoid located at the back of the supercharger and check for broken vacuum lines.
• Use a scan tool to activate solenoids and runners to diagnose electrical, mechanical, or vacuum issues.
• Consider the possibility of incorrect installation of lower intake manifolds/fuel rails.
• Investigate if tuning flap installation requires proper positioning during manifold installation.
• Inspect intake runner flaps for detachment from the pivot and replace if necessary.
• Ensure proper installation of supercharger, especially if it has been removed and reinstalled, to prevent phasing issues and air leaks.

Final Fix

• Cleaned and checked solenoid valves controlling vacuum to the intake manifold flaps, which resolved the issue.

Case #3: Audi

Vehicle Information 2015 Audi Q7 Premium Plus 3.0L

Issue + Repair History

• Vacuum activated both control solenoid/position sensors and observed voltage change when idling.
• Actual and specified position of solenoids are the same, but both solenoids show adaptation error.
• Concerns about the need to remove the manifold to inspect the flaps or determine if it’s a module error.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P2004: IMRC B1 stuck open
• P2005: IMRC B2 stuck open
• P2006: IMRC B1 stuck closed
• P2007: IMRC B2 stuck closed

Mechanic Suggestions

• Check for a TSB related to updated vacuum hoses available for these codes.
• Consider the possibility of a vacuum-controlled water pump causing intake flaps malfunctioning, and investigate if there’s a need for a new vacuum hose with a restriction.
• Verify if the intake manifold/supercharger has been removed recently and inspect the fuel rail installation for correct flap positioning.
• Check vacuum supply to the solenoids while the vehicle is idling and inspect for leaks in the vacuum line under the supercharger.
• Ensure the presence of a vacuum switchable coolant pump and verify if its vacuum feed is capped if deleted.
• Refer to the TSB for vacuum hose replacement.

Final Fix Repaired the vacuum supply to the runners, resolving the issue.

Diagnostic Step	Explanation
Inspect IMRC actuator and solenoid	Check for any signs of failure or malfunction; replace if necessary.
Check intake manifold runner flaps	Look for obstructions, damage, or signs of wear that could keep them from moving freely.
Test for vacuum leaks	Use a smoke machine or vacuum gauge to identify any leaks that could impact the IMRC system’s performance.
Examine electrical wiring and connectors	Ensure all connections are secure and free of corrosion or damage that could affect signal transmission.
Activate IMRC system with scan tool	Monitor the system’s response to commands to identify electrical vs mechanical faults.

In these cases, solutions ranged from cleaning and checking solenoid valves to replacing the vacuum supply and ensuring proper installation of components. Such actions underscore the importance of a comprehensive approach to accurately diagnose and resolve the root cause of the P2005 code, restoring optimal engine function and performance.