Powertrain, generic (extended)

P201D Intake Manifold Runner Control Actuator Internal Performance (Bank 1)

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

P201D is for flap actuators with their own electronics: the bank 1 actuator, or the ECM's check of it, has found a fault inside the unit, such as a failed driver, sensor or self-test, while wiring and supply look normal. GM uses the code on its 2017 and 2018 diesels with a smart swirl actuator, but only as a member of the fault group that orders swirl control off, next to P2008–P2010, P201B, P2004 and P2006; the tables give no monitor row and no threshold for it. CARB requires flap systems that change charge motion to be checked for proper function, and lets makers check the shaft of one bank instead of every flap. Since internal faults cannot be repaired, the usual remedy is a new actuator or, where it is built in, a new manifold, after ruling out supply (P201B) and circuit codes. The bank 2 counterpart is P201E.

Likely causes

Internal electronics of the smart actuator failed
Actuator overloaded by sticking flaps, internal protection tripped
Actuator or engine software fault

Symptoms

  • Malfunction indicator lamp on
  • Swirl control switched off, slightly rougher combustion at low load

Repair estimate

DifficultyHardWorkshop job
Parts and labour€150–1,500
Time0.5–4 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

imrc actuatorimrc position sensor

Related codes

P201EP201BP200AP2008P2015

References: gsi.ext.gm.com, gsi.ext.gm.com, law.cornell.edu.