Turbo actuator - P00AF

[firefighter_2000]

I got the P00AF “Turbocharger/Supercharger Boost Control A Module Performance” code about two weeks ago. I hadn’t noticed any change in performance or anything so I deleted the code.
This morning the code came back, and since I didn’t notice any change in performance so I deleted the code again. While almost home, the turbo charger appeared to stick with the exhaust brake in the on position. I stopped on the side of the road and let the truck sit for a couple of minutes. When I restarted the truck I did not turn the exhaust brake button on. I have been able to drive the truck with no problems since and the turbo builds good boost.
From what limited info I can find, the module is fairly easy to replace, but I’ve found conflicting information on if the module has to be calibrated on models newer than 2012. I’ve also read a couple that say the turbo will likely need replacing or cleaning at minimum soon.
Looking for some guidance. Truck is currently at 108k miles and was deleted less than 2000 miles ago.
Edit-I also have an extended warranty not through Ram, that goes until 125k that is supposed to cover this, but not sure since being deleted.
Thanks
Craig

 

[sag2]

Older trucks can not be calibrated and you have to replace the turbo. Newer trucks can replace the actuator and calibrate but they are not cheap.

 

[JR]

Newer trucks can replace the actuator and calibrate but they are not cheap.

I'm guessing this is a witech only function...

I've got this code as well as the 003a a few times over the last year.

 

[sag2]

Yes it is wi-TECH only. Our Snap-On scanner at the college can't do it. My TA also has the Cummins scanner and he had asked me to use wi-Tech tool as he could not find the routine in his. Now we know why, only replace complete turbo for older engines.

 

[firefighter_2000]

Would this most likely be a complete turbo replacement at the dealership?

 

[JR]

Yes it is wi-TECH only. Our Snap-On scanner at the college can't do it. My TA also has the Cummins scanner and he had asked me to use wi-Tech tool as he could not find the routine in his. Now we know why, only replace complete turbo for older engines.

Do you by chance know what model Snap On he was using?

I get it that they do not want you tampering with emissions components, but it is frustrating that what should be a typical repair can only be performed at the dealership.

 

[firefighter_2000]

Update: Dealer says it’s loosing communication with the turbocharger actuator and the actuator needs replaced. They say the part is right around $3000. Checking now to see if it’s covered by the extended warranty (should be).

 

[JR]

Ouch! Hopefully that at least includes labor?
I remember a local guy here needing a new turbo on his 13 5500 and bought it through a local Cummins shop for right around that price. Im pretty certain when you buy the assembly it is a bolt on deal as the actuator has already been calibrated to the turbo.
Maybe Sag can confirm this.

 

[TCDiesel]

Update: Dealer says it’s loosing communication with the turbocharger actuator and the actuator needs replaced. They say the part is right around $3000. Checking now to see if it’s covered by the extended warranty (should be).

That's Crazy, Once the actuator is removed you can check the arms movement , if the arm moves hard it will destroy the New actuator in short order. firefighter call Me on this even today is fine 763-228-7121.

 

[TCDiesel]

Their two option to calibrate the actuator , one with the actuator assemble the other without the actuator connected calibrate than attach and re-calibrate.

You are trusting the assembly was good and done correctly so if you by aftermarket make it a priority to check this from the seller.

 

[TCDiesel]

 

[firefighter_2000]

What about someone who doesn’t have that expensive scanner? Is there anyway to calibrate without a scanner?
Hoping this will all be covered under the extended warranty. Then I won’t have to worry about it!
Craig

 

[TCDiesel]

It should be covered..... You need the calibrating tool or BOOM

 

[sag2]

The problem is the older trucks do not have the calibration routine in the tool. In that case you have to replace the complete turbo. The video is a 2014 which has the routine.

 

[firefighter_2000]

Sag, can you give me a little more info on the pre 2014 actuators? The tech says all I need is an actuator. I was under the impression that on mine (2013) that the actuator wasn’t able to be calibrated thus needing to replace the whole turbo.
Thanks
Craig

 

[TCDiesel]

For those that want to know tips on finding info on the actuator (Things you don't find in the manual or Dealerships) all are welcome to call, Post #9.

My sig says it all.

 

[Austin Diesel]

2015 2500 longhorn had a turbo error code,
actuator not communicating called dealer said they have had a few come in with this issue lately, 24k miles, lost exhaust brake function, seemed premature maybe from soot? dealer replaced with fresh part ,all is well took a few hours and on my way for 5th wheel haul,

 

[firefighter_2000]

Second update: warranty is covering the repair. Replacing the actuator. I’m out a $100 deductible.
Thank you CNA service contract!
Craig

 

[Sean Wakefield]

Man. Mine just went out. 2015 2500. The dealer says 3900 and it's not covered by the warrenty

 

[firefighter_2000]

Man. Mine just went out. 2015 2500. The dealer says 3900 and it's not covered by the warrenty

You can buy a new or reman actuator much cheaper than that. Worst case scenario, put the new one on yourself & have it towed to the dealer for calibration. Shouldn’t cost more than an hour labor to do that.