OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Code
P2015 — Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Bank 1 Range/Performance
P2015 means the intake manifold runner position sensor on bank 1 reading is out of range or does not match expected runner movement. On many engines this means the flaps are not moving properly, rather than a sensor fault.
Severity 3/5
Truck-relevant
Service this week
Severity
Service this week
Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Bank 1 Range/Performance
Code
P2015
Category
Powertrain
Subsystem
Air Flow
Truck-relevant
Yes
What this means for truckers
Service within a few days on a Cummins X15, Detroit DD15, PACCAR MX-13. Performance is likely degraded. Continuing to drive without service risks additional component damage.
Before you replace parts — try this first
P2015 on the Air Flow system is most often sticking or worn runner flaps or linkage — not a dead part. On commercial diesels especially, work these in order before spending money on parts:
- Confirm the symptoms. Match what your truck is doing to the Symptoms section below. If the code is set but the symptoms are not there, clear the code and re-test after a drive cycle — it may not return.
- Clean and dry the sensor connector. Water, road salt, or oil seeping into a connector is the #1 fake sensor failure. Disconnect, look for green corrosion or moisture, spray with electrical contact cleaner, dry, reseat. Many faults clear here for $0.
- Inspect the wiring harness. Trace the wire from the sensor toward the ECM — look for chafing against the engine block, melted insulation near the turbo or exhaust, or pinch points where a clamp has rubbed through.
- Test the sensor before swapping it. Most Common Causes (below) list the expected voltage or resistance range — a $20 multimeter saves a $300 sensor swap that does not fix the problem.
- Only then, replace the part. Use the OEM or a tier-1 aftermarket. Cheap sensors throw the same code in two weeks.
Symptoms
Check-engine light, rough idle, reduced low- or high-rpm power, and on some engines a rattle from the intake.
Common causes
- CommonSticking or worn runner flaps or linkage ($200–$800)
- CommonFaulty position sensor ($100–$400)
- OccasionalFailed actuator ($200–$700)
- OccasionalWiring fault ($80–$300)
How to fix
Watch runner position during a commanded sweep
When to use: First step
Inspect linkage and flaps
When to use: When movement is limited
Replace the actuator or intake manifold
When to use: When parts are worn or seized
Replace the sensor
When to use: When movement is good but the reading is off
Affects most
No specific vehicle pattern found in our complaint database. This code can appear on any vehicle that supports OBD-II diagnostics.
Related
- → Browse all DTC trouble codes
- → Decode a VIN to check codes for your truck
- → Owner-operator maintenance guides
- → P2002 — Diesel Particulate Filter Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
- → P2003 — Diesel Particulate Filter Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 2)
- → P2031 — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2
- → P2032 — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 Low
- → P2033 — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 High
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code P2015?
P2015 is severity 3 — plan service within a few days. Performance is likely degraded already (you may feel reduced power, harsher shifts, or slightly worse fuel economy). Continuing to drive risks additional damage to adjacent components.
How much does it cost to fix P2015 on a commercial truck?
Total repair cost ranges $80–$800 depending on the root cause. The cheapest fix is usually the first one listed below — Sticking or worn runner flaps or linkage — which is also the most common. On commercial trucks the cost is usually higher than passenger vehicles due to part availability and shop labor rates ($120–185/hour at most truck shops, vs $90–130 at general auto shops). DIY-capable fixes (sensors, hoses, filters) are at the low end; major component replacements (turbo actuator, high-pressure fuel pump, transmission solenoid pack) are at the high end. Always diagnose with a scan tool BEFORE replacing parts — guessing wrong on a $1,500 turbo actuator when the actual issue was a $30 boost hose is a common expensive mistake.
Will P2015 fail a DOT inspection?
P2015 is generally not a direct DOT inspection fail item by itself. Inspectors focus on safety-critical systems (brakes, steering, tires, lights, hours-of-service). However, the check engine light alone can trigger additional inspection scrutiny. Best practice: fix the code and clear it before a planned inspection.
What's the difference between P2015 and related codes?
P2015 is closely related to: P2002 (Diesel Particulate Filter Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)), P2003 (Diesel Particulate Filter Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 2)), P2031 (Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2), P2032 (Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 Low). These codes share the same subsystem (air-flow) and often appear together. If you see this code, scan for the full code list — fixing the root cause usually clears multiple companion codes at once. If only P2015 is set without the companions, the issue is more isolated.
How do I prevent P2015 from coming back after a repair?
For P2015 (Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Bank 1 Range/Performance), prevention centers on the air flow system. Service air filter on time. Clean MAF sensor at every air filter change. Inspect intake boots/hoses for cracks — vibration kills them eventually.