What does P0299 mean?
The turbo or supercharger is making less boost than the computer expects.
Codes are a starting point. They tell you which test failed, not which part to replace. Check for other stored codes and fix those in a sensible order.
Symptoms
- Noticeable loss of power
- Check engine light
- Black smoke on diesels
- Whistling or hissing from a boost leak
Common causes
- Boost leak (cracked hose, loose clamp, leaking charge air cooler)
- Sticking wastegate or VGT vanes
- Failed boost control solenoid or actuator
- Faulty boost sensor
- Worn turbocharger
- Exhaust restriction (clogged DPF or catalyst)
How to diagnose P0299
- Pressure-test the intake and charge air system (boost leak test).
- Compare commanded and actual boost.
- Check the wastegate or VGT actuator.
- Check the turbo for shaft play and damage.
- On diesels, check DPF back pressure.
How to fix it
- Repair boost leaks
- Repair the wastegate or VGT
- Replace the boost sensor
- Replace the turbocharger
Estimated repair cost
Likely repairs for P0299 run from about $100 to $5,000, depending on the cause.
| Repair | Typical range (parts + labor) |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic fee (scan + testing) | $100 - $200 |
| Boost leak repair (CAC hose/clamp) | $100 - $500 |
| Charge air cooler replacement | $600 - $1,800 |
| VGT actuator / vane service | $500 - $1,800 |
| Wastegate/boost control solenoid | $150 - $500 |
| Turbocharger replacement (diesel pickup) | $2,000 - $5,000 |
These are rough US estimates for an independent shop in 2026, based on typical parts prices and standard labor times. Dealers, big trucks, luxury brands and high-cost areas often run higher. They are not quotes. Use the repair cost estimator to adjust for your vehicle.
How serious is P0299?
Moderate severity
Drive gently. Expect reduced power.
Make-specific notes
Powerstroke (Ford 6.7L)
On the 6.0L and 6.4L, sticking VGT vanes are a well-known cause. On the 6.7L, check intake piping and the turbo itself.
Duramax (GM 6.6L)
On the LMM and LML, cracked intercooler boots and loose clamps are common causes.
Cummins (Ram 6.7L)
On the 6.7L, the VGT actuator and soot-stuck vanes are frequent causes.
Ford EcoBoost
Leaking charge air cooler hoses and wastegate actuator issues are common causes.
Always check open recalls and technical service bulletins for your VIN.
P0299 FAQ
What does P0299 mean?
P0299 stands for "Turbocharger/Supercharger "A" Underboost Condition". The turbo or supercharger is making less boost than the computer expects.
Can I drive with a P0299 code?
Drive gently. Expect reduced power.
How much does it cost to fix P0299?
It depends on the cause. The likely repairs for P0299 range from about $100 to $5,000 at an independent shop in the US, plus a diagnostic fee of roughly $100-$200. These are rough estimates; dealer prices and some vehicles run higher.
What is the most common cause of P0299?
The most common causes are: boost leak (cracked hose, loose clamp, leaking charge air cooler); sticking wastegate or VGT vanes; failed boost control solenoid or actuator.