P245A

Gas Recirculation Cooler Bypass Control Circuit/Open

P245A is a generic OBD-II powertrain diagnostic trouble code: Gas Recirculation Cooler Bypass Control Circuit/Open. It is logged by the engine control unit when the dpf monitor detects that a specific fault threshold has been exceeded — typically resulting in the malfunction-indicator lamp (MIL / check-engine light) being illuminated.

Code
P245A
Group
Powertrain
System
DPF
Severity
Warning (MIL on)
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What P245A means

P245A is set when the PCM/ECM detects a lower-than-expected voltage on the control circuit for the EGR cooler bypass valve. The bypass valve diverts exhaust gas around or through the EGR cooler depending on engine operating conditions, and its actuator is monitored for electrical continuity and correct response.

The fault is typically electrical in nature, pointing to a short to ground, an open circuit, or a failed actuator in the bypass valve solenoid circuit. The ECM expects a specific voltage range when commanding the valve; if the measured signal falls below the calibrated threshold, this code is stored and the MIL is illuminated.

Allowing this fault to persist can reduce EGR system efficiency, leading to elevated NOx emissions and potential thermal stress on EGR components. A thorough wiring inspection between the ECM and the bypass valve connector should precede any component replacement.

Common causes

Most-frequently reported root causes when P245A is logged.

  • 1
    Short to ground in the EGR cooler bypass valve control wiring.
  • 2
    Open circuit or broken wire between the ECM and the bypass valve solenoid.
  • 3
    Failed or internally shorted EGR cooler bypass valve actuator.
  • 4
    Corroded or damaged connector at the bypass valve or ECM.
  • 5
    ECM driver circuit fault causing incorrect output voltage.
  • 6
    Chafed wiring harness contacting the engine block or exhaust components.

Symptoms drivers notice

MIL (Check Engine Light) illuminated.
Possible increase in exhaust NOx emissions.
EGR system may default to a fixed position, reducing efficiency.
No noticeable driveability change in mild cases.
Potential for elevated engine temperatures in heavy EGR use conditions.

How to diagnose P245A

A typical diagnostic flow when this code is present.

  1. 1
    Connect a scan tool and read all stored DTCs; note any related EGR or emissions codes.
  2. 2
    Inspect the EGR cooler bypass valve connector and wiring for corrosion, damage, or loose pins.
  3. 3
    Measure voltage and resistance on the bypass valve control circuit with the ignition on and compare to specifications.
  4. 4
    Check for a short to ground on the control wire using a digital multimeter with the connector unplugged at the valve.
  5. 5
    Test the bypass valve solenoid resistance and compare to the manufacturer specification.
  6. 6
    If wiring and solenoid test within spec, inspect the ECM output driver for the circuit.
  7. 7
    Clear codes and perform a drive cycle to confirm repair.

Vehicles where we've handled P245A

Platforms in our catalogue with confirmed P245A coverage.

BMW 320D
2016
VW TOURAN 20D

Related powertrain codes

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive with P245A active?

Short-term driving is generally possible, but the EGR system may not operate optimally, increasing emissions and potentially stressing cooler components over time.

Is P245A always an electrical fault?

Yes, the 'Circuit Low' designation indicates an electrical issue with the control circuit, not a mechanical failure of the cooler itself.

Will P245A cause a failed emissions test?

Yes, with the MIL illuminated the vehicle will fail an OBD-based emissions inspection in most jurisdictions.

Could a bad ECM cause P245A?

It is possible but uncommon; always rule out wiring and the bypass valve solenoid before suspecting the ECM.

Disabling P245A in software

RaceTune can permanently disable P245A — and any other OBD-II diagnostic trouble code — on every ECU family we support. The monitor is disabled inside the ECU itself, so the fault stops being logged: the warning light stays off and the engine never enters limp mode for this code. The change is tied to your exact software version.

Permanent
The monitor is disabled in the ECU itself — not just cleared. It cannot return.
Tailored to your file
Each patch is matched to your specific software version — never a one-size-fits-all file.
Reversible
The original file is always preserved. Reflash the stock to return the ECU to factory state.

ECUs with a P245A disable in our catalogue

Confirmed coverage from our recipe database — we support many more families. Upload your file and our identifier will match it automatically.

  • Bosch EDC17C50 verified 1 software version
  • Bosch EDC17C74 verified 1 software version
  • Bosch EDC17CP09 verified 1 software version

Software modifications affect emissions compliance and are not road-legal in many jurisdictions. RaceTune service files are intended for motorsport, off-road, and export use.

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