Faulty intake manifold runner position sensor, or IMRC actuator/solenoid (both sources). Sticking or faulty runner valves, or a problem with the intake manifold or its linkage (both sources). Wiring or connector problems in the sensor or actuator circuit (RepairPal lists wiring directly; OBD-Codes.com's checks start with the connectors and wiring). Sticking or faulty throttle plates/throttle body (OBD-Codes.com). Rarely, a faulty PCM, which needs programming after replacement (OBD-Codes.com).

Repair damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor or actuator circuit (both sources). Replace a faulty runner position sensor or IMRC actuator/solenoid (both sources); OBD-Codes.com says this is the next step if the runner valves move freely. Replace binding or loose runner valves; OBD-Codes.com says this usually means replacing the entire intake manifold, a job better left to a professional. PCM replacement and programming only after everything else is ruled out (OBD-Codes.com calls it rare).

P2015🔧 Air intake / intake manifold runner controlDrive with caution, fix soon

P2015: Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor Range (Meaning, Causes, Fixes)

Q: What does P2015 mean?

P2015 means the engine computer is getting an out-of-range reading from the bank 1 intake manifold runner position sensor, which reports where the intake runner valves are. The usual culprits are the runner position sensor or actuator, a sticking runner valve inside the manifold, or wiring, and on some engines the fix means replacing the intake manifold. Many modern engines use an intake manifold runner control (IMRC) system: valves or flaps inside the intake manifold open and close to change how air flows to the cylinders at different engine speeds, for better performance and fuel economy. RepairPal says the valves are moved either by a vacuum solenoid or an electric actuator, and a position sensor tells the powertrain control module (PCM) where they are. P2015 sets when the PCM sees that bank 1 runner position sensor signal out of its expected range. Bank 1 is the side of the engine with cylinder 1; inline engines only have bank 1. OBD-Codes.com calls it a generic code for fuel-injected engines since about 2003 from makers including Ford, Dodge, Toyota, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Nissan and Infiniti, and says it can be a mechanical or an electrical fault depending on the vehicle. The sources word it a little differently: RepairPal's page heading calls it 'Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Circuit' while its explanation says the signal is out of range, and RepairPal frames the cause as the runner not operating as requested. OBD-Codes.com also lists a sticking throttle body as a possible cause, which RepairPal doesn't mention, while RepairPal names wiring problems directly as a common cause.

Q: Can I keep driving with P2015?

Drive with caution, fix soon. RepairPal rates P2015 moderate: it may not threaten the car's safety or function right away, but it should be diagnosed within a reasonable time to keep the car running well. OBD-Codes.com lists lack of power and occasional misfires as possible symptoms. If the engine suddenly loses power, won't rev, or the check engine light flashes, drive gently and get it checked soon rather than pushing on.

Reviewed 2026-10-22 · Based on 2 cited source(s)

What P2015 means

Many modern engines use an intake manifold runner control (IMRC) system: valves or flaps inside the intake manifold open and close to change how air flows to the cylinders at different engine speeds, for better performance and fuel economy. RepairPal says the valves are moved either by a vacuum solenoid or an electric actuator, and a position sensor tells the powertrain control module (PCM) where they are. P2015 sets when the PCM sees that bank 1 runner position sensor signal out of its expected range. Bank 1 is the side of the engine with cylinder 1; inline engines only have bank 1. OBD-Codes.com calls it a generic code for fuel-injected engines since about 2003 from makers including Ford, Dodge, Toyota, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Nissan and Infiniti, and says it can be a mechanical or an electrical fault depending on the vehicle. The sources word it a little differently: RepairPal's page heading calls it 'Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Circuit' while its explanation says the signal is out of range, and RepairPal frames the cause as the runner not operating as requested. OBD-Codes.com also lists a sticking throttle body as a possible cause, which RepairPal doesn't mention, while RepairPal names wiring problems directly as a common cause.

Severity: can I keep driving?

Drive with caution, fix soon

RepairPal rates P2015 moderate: it may not threaten the car's safety or function right away, but it should be diagnosed within a reasonable time to keep the car running well. OBD-Codes.com lists lack of power and occasional misfires as possible symptoms. If the engine suddenly loses power, won't rev, or the check engine light flashes, drive gently and get it checked soon rather than pushing on.

Common symptoms

Check engine light on (both sources)
Lack of power or poor engine performance (both sources)
Poor fuel economy (both sources)
Occasional misfire (OBD-Codes.com)

Likely causes

Roughly most to least common, based on the sources below. Your vehicle may differ.

Faulty intake manifold runner position sensor, or IMRC actuator/solenoid (both sources)
Sticking or faulty runner valves, or a problem with the intake manifold or its linkage (both sources)
Wiring or connector problems in the sensor or actuator circuit (RepairPal lists wiring directly; OBD-Codes.com's checks start with the connectors and wiring)
Sticking or faulty throttle plates/throttle body (OBD-Codes.com)
Rarely, a faulty PCM, which needs programming after replacement (OBD-Codes.com)

Diagnostic steps you can do

⚠ Before you start

Work on a cool engine, parked on level ground with the parking brake set. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.

Check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) for your vehicle; both sources say a known issue with a known fix can save diagnosis time and money.
Note any other trouble codes. OBD-Codes.com says intake or engine performance codes should be diagnosed first, and that intake (vacuum) or exhaust leaks should be ruled out.
Find the runner position sensor/actuator (OBD-Codes.com says it's typically at one end of the intake manifold) and inspect the wiring and connectors for rubbing, bare wires, melted plastic, or burnt or corroded terminals. Clean corroded terminals with electrical contact cleaner.
Clear the code and see whether it comes back. RepairPal notes it can sometimes appear in error, and OBD-Codes.com says if it doesn't return after cleaning the connections, they were most likely the problem.

Typical fixes

Repair damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor or actuator circuit (both sources)
Replace a faulty runner position sensor or IMRC actuator/solenoid (both sources); OBD-Codes.com says this is the next step if the runner valves move freely
Replace binding or loose runner valves; OBD-Codes.com says this usually means replacing the entire intake manifold, a job better left to a professional
PCM replacement and programming only after everything else is ruled out (OBD-Codes.com calls it rare)

Repair costs vary widely by vehicle, region, parts brand and shop, so we don't quote prices. Get a written estimate after diagnosis.

🛠 When to call a pro

RepairPal says a technician will usually command the runner valves open and closed with a scan tool while watching the live data to see if the system works
Both sources describe testing the sensor and actuator circuits with a digital multimeter against the manufacturer's specs and wiring diagram
Checking the valves for binding means removing the actuator and turning the linkage by hand; OBD-Codes.com warns the return springs can be strong, and that on some vehicles the valves are held by the actuator assembly and can break if taken apart

Where to buy

Plain search links. Always match parts to your exact year, make, model and engine.

OBD2 scanners on Amazon Parts at Advance Auto Parts catalog at RockAuto

FAQs

Can I drive with P2015?

RepairPal rates it moderate, so it usually isn't an emergency, but get it diagnosed within a reasonable time. Expect possible loss of power and worse fuel economy until it's fixed.

Does P2015 always mean a new intake manifold?

No. Both sources list wiring, the position sensor and the actuator as causes, and those get checked first. OBD-Codes.com says the manifold usually has to be replaced only when the runner valves inside it are binding or loose, because they often can't be replaced separately.

What does bank 1 mean?

Bank 1 is the side of the engine with cylinder number 1. An inline four- or six-cylinder engine has only one bank, so it's always bank 1.

Sources

Last reviewed 2026-10-22. Code definitions and repair steps can vary by manufacturer. Confirm with your vehicle's service information.