P0245 on Buick: How to Diagnose & Fix
Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid "A" Circuit Low
1 Buick model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $900-$2,400 repair
P0245 on Buick by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The single-scroll turbocharger used on both the 1.2L LIH and 1.3L L3T three-cylinder engines suffers wastegate actuator and internal turbo failures. The electric wastegate actuator loses calibration or the linkage binds from heat cycling and carbon, so the ECM can no longer hold commanded boost. The module sets an underboost fault, drops the vehicle into a reduced-power limp mode, and in the worst cases the turbo center section itself fails. NHTSA complaints on the Encore GX and its platform twin (Chevrolet Trailblazer) repeatedly describe the failure recurring after a first turbo replacement, indicating the replacement part shares the same weakness. Owners commonly report it first appearing under highway load or when merging.
Common Symptoms
- "Engine Power Is Reduced" message on the driver information center
- Check engine light with sudden loss of acceleration
- Vehicle will not exceed roughly 35 mph in limp mode
- Shaking or trembling under load above 35 mph
- Whistling or siren-like noise from the engine bay under boost
- Repeat failure after a prior turbo replacement
How to Fix
Scan for P0299 and check actual vs. commanded boost with a scan tool before parts are thrown at it. Inspect the charge-air piping and intercooler couplers for split boots and the PCV/oil separator for excessive crankcase pressure, which drives oil into the turbo. If the wastegate actuator is out of calibration, GM's remedy is actuator/turbo assembly replacement and a relearn; a leaking or shaft-play turbo requires the full turbocharger assembly. Address any charge-pipe leak first, since a boost leak throws the same code far more cheaply.
Sources for this issue (3)
P0245 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0245 mean on a Buick?
P0245 stands for "Turbocharger/Supercharger Wastegate Solenoid "A" Circuit Low." This code sets when the engine control module sees an abnormally low voltage (a short to ground or open) on the control circuit for turbocharger/supercharger wastegate solenoid "A." The wastegate solenoid regulates boost pressure by controlling the wastegate that bleeds off exhaust pressure. When the circuit reads low, the computer can no longer trust its control of boost, which can affect power and emissions. On Buick it is documented across 1 model: Encore GX.
What are the most common causes of P0245?
The most common causes of P0245 are: Faulty wastegate solenoid (internally shorted), Wiring shorted to ground in the solenoid circuit, Corroded or loose solenoid connector, Open or damaged control wiring, Failed PCM/ECM driver circuit (less common), Vacuum/boost line issues affecting the solenoid. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0245 on a Buick?
Published repair estimates on Buick range from $900 to $2,400 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0245 on a different make?
View P0245 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.