How to Fix the P132B DTC Code on a 6.4L Powerstroke

The code P132b is a common occurrence on the 6.4 Powerstroke and is considered moderately severe. If the check engine light is on and the code has been stored, you must address the problem right away. Let’s start discussing by briefly knowing the meaning of the code.

The code P132B on the 6.4 Powerstroke means or is defined as  “Turbocharger Boost Control “A” Performance issue.” The PCM controls the boost control system, and the boost sensor effectively collaborates with the PCM. when the PCM discovers that it is unable to control the pressure and that the turbocharger is not working properly, It sets the code.

This is just a brief explanation of the code. We aim to provide a detailed explanation, including causes, symptoms, and fixing strategy, of P132b on 6.4 powerstroke.

What Does p132B Code Mean On 6.4 powerstroke?

To reiterate, P132b on the 6.4 Powerstroke can be defined as “Turbocharger Boost Control “A” Performance issue.” 

In a broader sense, there is a sensor in the manifold. Its sole function is to keep track of the boost pressure. 

After the PCM processes this data, it instructs the actuator to open the westgate, releasing the exhaust pressure and returning the pressure to normal.

The actuator is necessary to regulate the boost in the 6.4 Powerstroke’s v6 engine. Each bank contains two turbochargers and actuators; for optimal engine performance, both turbochargers must operate at the same level and generate the same amount of boost. 

When there is a fault in the boost control system, there is a chance that both the turbochargers are not performing equally well. When the PCM of 6.4 Powerstroke finds any discrepancy, it sets the code.

If we break it down, we get the following.

  • P = Powertrain (especially the engine and gearbox).
  • 1 = It is a generic code that derives from the SAE.
  • 3 = It indicates the parts associated with the fault. In our case, it is the turbocharger.
  • 2B = It indicates a specific fault index. In our case, it is a “Turbocharger Boost Control “A” Performance issue.

How Serious Is Code p132b On 6.4 Powerstroke?

On 6.4 Powerstroke engines, the code P132b is rated as moderately severe to severe. There is a chance that the engine will lose power. 

Power outages can be severe to a certain extent. A decline in fuel economy is also brought on by poor boost performance.

When the engine speed is low, certain accelerations may cause the engine to stall, hesitate, or stumble. Along with them, the other consequences may include low engine speed and premature ignition.

As you can see, the code may have such consequences,resulting in the poor performance of the engine. 

Therefore, as soon as the code is stored and the check engine light comes on, the appropriate actions should be taken. 

What Causes Code p132b On 6.4 Powerstroke?

When it comes to talking about what causes the code P132b on 6.4 Powerstroke, there can be many reasons. 

As simple as burnt or corroded wiring and connectors to the boost control system can be the reason. Besides, you may find one of the following reasons why the code P132B on 6.4 Powerstroke is set.

  • Faulty manifold pressure sensor 
  • Faulty actuator position sensor
  • Bending actuator arm
  • Faulty actuator motor
  • Corroded connector to the turbocharger 

Other Symptoms Of Getting P132b Code On 6.4 Powerstroke

The most obvious symptom that the code P132b on 6.4 powerstroke appears is that the check engine light is turned on. The other common symptoms may include the following:

  • Loss of engine power
  • Engine hesitation or stumble 
  • Coolant leak
  • Reduced fuel economy
  • Faulty Ignition

How To Fix The p132B Code On The 6.4 Powerstroke?

The secret to solving the code is to identify the root cause. The cause of the code stored in 6.4 Powerstroke will be discovered through system diagnosis. 

Once the cause is known, the fix is not that difficult. What method to use is another fact. 

Find a professional you can trust if you are unsure of your DIY (Do It Yourself) abilities. We suggest leaving the job to a professional, especially when you do not have any previous experience. 

Notes : For a comprehensive wiring diagram and all other necessary details, refer to the service bulletin specific to your vehicle and Powerstroke 6.0 . 

Online auto repair resources, guides, and professional advice are other options. The note is for those who prefer to handle the issue themselves.

Diagnostic 

As previously mentioned, diagnosis is the process used to identify the underlying reason why a code appears on 6.4 Powerstroke.  But it changes depending on the make, model, and year of the vehicle. 

The diagnosis steps are more or less the same. While the mechanic performs the diagnosis, they use a scan tool to check the codes and clear them. Here is a bit of discussion about how an expert performs a diagnosis.

Scan the System and Clear the Codes

Scanning is the first step to verifying the problem. It displays the other related codes and freeze frame data, which demonstrates the condition of the vehicle when the code is stored.

At this point, write down all the relevant data and clear all the code. After all the codes are cleared, experts test drive the vehicle and rescan, which reveals if any of the deleted codes return. 

Fixing 

Fixing the code means fixing the reasons behind the code. Once you have identified the reason, apply the best possible method to solve it. 

1. Repair or replace Poor wiring and a corroded connector to the turbocharger

Visually inspect all of the wiring connections to the turbocharger and any that might come loose and cause damage. Check for any corrosion because it can sometimes cause the connection to become weak and defective. 

2. Replace the Actuator

Replacing the faulty actuator is the most likely solution for the code P132b on 6.4 powerstroke. Here is a step by step guide on replacing the turbo actuator on the F250 6.4 powerstroke.

  • Step 1: Disconnect the Arm of the Actuator

Removing the actuator arm from the turbo vane control is the first thing you should do.  I should point out that there are two distinct actuator models. Versions are available with pressed connections and 10-m volt versions.

  • Step 2: Remove the Volts

After disconnecting the arm, take out the three volts that are holding the actuator. After that, unscrew the additional bolts holding the cooler to the actuator’s back.

  • Step 3: Disengage all the Cables

At this point, disengage every electrical cable and take the entire actuator out. Just reverse the removal process while installing the new actuator.

3. Clean the manifold and actuator position sensor

Once you find the manifold or actuator sensor is faulty, you can replace them or clean them. Here are some of the basic steps that can be followed to remove and clean any sensor. 

  • Step 1: Locate the sensor’s location first. 
  • Step 2: Next, take the sensor out. Remove the sensor by unscrewing it from its position.
  • Step 3: Use gasoline or cleaner. Submerge the sensor in the gasoline in an effective way to clean the sensor.
  • Step 4: Reinstall the sensor after it has been cleaned.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix The 6.4 Powerstroke p132b Code?

If you have to replace the actuator on a 6.4 Powerstroke, then the average cost of replacing that part, including the cost of labor, is somewhere between $500 and $700. 

Now the question is, will you follow the DIY approach or seek help from an expert. The mechanic’s charges depend on the severity of the issue, but on average, an expert charges up to $150 for the diagnosis. 

On the other hand, diagnosis and replacing necessary parts on your own requires necessary tools, which will increase your cost.

Can You Drive Your 6.4 Powerstroke With Code p132b?

The code P132b on 6.4 powerstroke is not going to prevent you from driving. However, you should not drive too long after the code is set. P132b is an indication that the engine boost pressure is not performing well. 

When boost pressure is not performing at its optimum, the overall performance of the engine decreases. Also, there is a chance of further engine issues. So, you can drive even if the code is set, but the issue needs to be resolved soon.

FAQs.

By now we have tried to cover every bit of detail about the P132b code on 6.4 Powerstroke. Here are some frequently asked questions that you might want to know.

Can You Drive With A Faulty Turbo Actuator On A Powerstroke 6.4?

A faulty actuator won’t prevent you from driving. However, as you know the severity we mentioned earlier in the article, driving with the faulty actuator increases the chances of engine failure. 
If not, then there is a chance of further engine damage. If the code is set, check your turbo actuator on 6.4 powerstroke.

How To Test Wastegate Actuator?

To test the wastegate actuator, you need an air compressor. All you have to do is run compressed air through it and see how much it will take before it opens. Set the air compressor at a different PSI and find the appropriate PSI that opens the wastegate.

What Is The Relation Between Wastegate And Turbo?

Simply put, the wastegate controls the exhaust gas flow. It also controls the speed of the turbine by diverting the excess exhaust gas from the turbine. Since the turbine speed comes to a limit, it helps prevent further engine damage.

Conclusion

P132B on 6.4 powerstroke, unlike other DTC, is a bit complex due to several components involved. A faulty actuator is not going to stop your vehicle, preventing engine fire or it is not necessarily that more effort is required to start the engine.

However , delay in taking action will undoubtedly damage powerstrike. So, before we finish, once the check engine light is on , activate your scanner and get the code. Get to know its meaning and plan on fixing it sooner than later.

We sincerely hope that you found the information we provided to be useful and that it helped you learn a lot about P132B on powerstroke and quickly resolve the problem.

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