Error Code P2017 is defined as Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Circuit High Bank 1. This problem is usually caused by a wiring problem (short to positive) with the intake manifold air control actuator position sensor/switch

Definition

The runner valve or runner position sensor works by controlling the volume of air that enters into the intake manifold. The manifold has a flap which is controlled by the runner valve, and it opens and closes depending on the air requirements of the engine. If Error Code P2017 is set, this means the runner valve is not opening or closing as required by the PCM (powertrain control module, also known as ECM or engine control module in other vehicle makes). This means the correlation between the PCM and the runner valve is out of sequence.

The runner valve is a second throttle body butterfly plate for the air intake system, which is designed to optimize the engine’s AFR (air-fuel ratio). This valve will open or close to allow air to enter the engine faster or slower.

If the engine is increasing in speed from stopped position, the runner valve will close the flap slightly, allowing air to enter the engine faster and simultaneously enable the vehicle to gain speed quicker and restrict fuel consumption. As the RPM increases, the engine will suck more air, and eventually, the advantage of slightly closed flaps will hinder the performance of the engine, rather than helping. If this problem happens, the flap will open up wider.

The flap is closed at a lower speed, as the RPM is low and less air enters the engine. The intake manifold has several big ports which may take a long time to full up due to their large size. The faster the manifold fills up with air, the faster the acceleration of the vehicle, which also means better fuel economy.

It is, however, scientifically proven that air moves faster through smaller spaces than larger areas. To take advantage of this, there are electronically controlled flaps designed for some intake manifolds to fill up more quickly and get air into the combustion chamber faster. The flap will open or close depending on the current needs of the engine. If Error Code P2017 is set, that means there’s a problem in the operation of the engine’s flaps, which are controlled by the runner valve.

Common Symptoms

As with other error codes, this code activates the Check Engine light and registers the code to the vehicle’s system. Other symptoms include:

  • Poor acceleration
  • Poor fuel economy (increase in fuel consumption)

Possible Causes

There are many possible causes for the flap to stuck open or close, which leads to the Error Code. Some of the leading causes include:

  • Dirty intake manifold and intake manifold control valve
  • Leaking intake manifold gasket (s)
  • Vacuum leak
  • Dirty air filter
  • Faulty intake manifold
  • Faulty intake manifold control solenoid
  • Shorted or open electrical circuit
  • Defective PCM (rare)

How to Check

To diagnose for this error code, technicians usually start their checking by removing the intake manifold and checking it for carbon buildup and other defects.

Then, they test the intake manifold control solenoid using a multimeter to make sure there is enough ground and voltage.

Then, they measure the resistance of the intake manifold control solenoid using the multimeter.

Next, they check the state of the Mass Airflow sensor and look for dirt or oil.

Lastly, they inspect the intake manifold control solenoid to the PCM for opens, shorts, signs of broken connections such as caused by corrosion or frayed wirings.

How to Fix

Common fixes for this code are easy to do, but of course, require thorough diagnosis. Some of the repairs include:

  • Cleaning the intake manifold thoroughly
  • Cleaning the Mass Airflow sensor
  • Replacing the defective intake manifold control solenoid
  • Repairing the damages of the wirings in intake manifold runner circuit
  • Repair open or shorts in the wiring of intake manifold runner circuit
  • Replacing the vacuum leak
  • Replacing the intake manifold leak
  • Replacing the dirty air filter
  • Replacing the defective PCM (rare)

Error Code P2017 is not a serious problem, and it may not cause severe damages to your engine. However, because it activates the Check Engine light, you will not legally pass inspection until this problem is solved.