P2019 Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2)

P2019 Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2) is a generic OBD-II diagnostic trouble code indicating a problem in the intake manifold runner position sensor or switch circuit on Bank 2.

The intake manifold runner system controls the path and characteristics of intake airflow entering the engine. Depending on engine speed and load, the runner mechanism can change position to improve airflow, torque, throttle response, fuel economy, combustion, and emissions.

A position sensor or switch provides feedback to the engine control module (ECM/PCM), allowing it to determine whether the intake runner mechanism is operating correctly.

When the control module detects an electrical or mechanical problem involving the Bank 2 runner position circuit, it can store P2019 and illuminate the Check Engine Light. The exact monitoring strategy and code description can vary by vehicle manufacturer.

In simple terms, P2019 means the ECM/PCM has detected a problem with the Bank 2 intake manifold runner position sensor/switch circuit.

The fault may involve:

• Intake manifold runner position sensor

• Position switch

• Runner actuator

• Wiring

• Electrical connector

• Vacuum-control system

• Runner linkage

• Sticking runner flaps

• Carbon buildup

• Mechanical damage

• ECM/PCM control or input circuit

Therefore, P2019 does not automatically mean that the intake manifold itself needs to be replaced.

---

What Does P2019 Mean?

The code description contains several important terms.

Intake Manifold Runner

The intake manifold runner is the passage through which intake air travels toward the engine cylinders.

Many modern engines use an intake manifold runner control system to alter the airflow path according to engine operating conditions.

Depending on the manufacturer, the system may be called:

• Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC)

• Intake Manifold Runner System

• Intake Manifold Tuning

• Intake Runner Control

• Variable Intake Manifold

• Intake Manifold Flap Control

The exact terminology and design vary between engines.

The system can be used to improve:

• Low-RPM torque

• High-RPM airflow

• Throttle response

• Fuel economy

• Combustion efficiency

• Emissions performance

---

Position Sensor / Switch

The position sensor or switch tells the ECM/PCM where the intake runner mechanism is located.

The control module can compare the commanded runner position with the feedback received from the sensor.

For example:

ECM command → Runner actuator → Runner flap → Position sensor → Feedback → ECM

If the feedback signal is missing, implausible, incorrect, or outside the manufacturer's expected operating characteristics, P2019 may be stored.

The exact threshold and monitoring strategy are vehicle-specific. Some manufacturer diagnostic documents define P2019 using a specific electrical threshold, while others describe it more generally as a circuit fault.

---

Bank 2

Bank 2 refers to the cylinder bank that does not contain cylinder number one.

On a typical V-type engine:

• Bank 1 = side containing cylinder number one

• Bank 2 = opposite side

Inline engines generally have only one cylinder bank.

Therefore, Bank 2 is primarily relevant to engines with multiple cylinder banks.

---

Circuit Malfunction

The word “Malfunction” is important.

Unlike a code explicitly labeled “Circuit Low” or “Circuit High,” a generic P2019 description does not by itself identify the signal as simply too low or too high.

The underlying problem may be:

• Open circuit

• Short circuit

• Incorrect sensor signal

• Faulty sensor

• Poor electrical connection

• Mechanical runner problem

• Actuator problem

• Linkage problem

• Vacuum-system problem

The exact meaning can vary by manufacturer, so the vehicle-specific service information should always be used for the final diagnosis.

---

How Does the Intake Manifold Runner System Work?

The intake runner system uses a mechanical mechanism to control the intake-air path.

Depending on the engine, it may include:

• Runner flaps

• Electric actuator

• Vacuum actuator

• Control solenoid

• Position sensor

• Position switch

• Mechanical linkage

The ECM/PCM commands the runner to move.

The actuator moves the mechanism.

The sensor reports the actual position.

The ECM then evaluates the feedback.

A simplified sequence is:

ECM command → Actuator → Runner mechanism → Position sensor → Feedback signal → ECM

A fault anywhere in this chain can potentially contribute to P2019.

---

Symptoms of P2019

Symptoms vary considerably depending on the vehicle and the underlying problem.

Check Engine Light

The most common symptom is an illuminated Check Engine Light.

---

Reduced Engine Power

If the runner mechanism cannot operate correctly, the engine may not receive the intended airflow at certain RPMs.

Possible symptoms include:

• Reduced acceleration

• Reduced engine power

• Sluggish performance

• Poor response at certain engine speeds

---

Poor Low-RPM Torque

Some runner systems are designed to increase intake-air velocity at lower engine speeds.

A malfunction may therefore reduce low-speed torque.

---

Poor High-RPM Performance

Other runner positions are designed to optimize airflow at higher RPMs.

A runner that cannot move correctly may reduce high-speed performance.

---

Engine Hesitation

The engine may hesitate during acceleration if the runner system is not operating correctly.

---

Poor Throttle Response

The vehicle may respond more slowly to accelerator input.

---

Rough Idle

Some vehicles may develop:

• Rough idle

• Unstable idle speed

• Uneven engine operation

However, this symptom is not present on every vehicle with P2019.

---

Reduced Fuel Economy

Incorrect intake-air management can affect combustion efficiency and increase fuel consumption.

---

Increased Emissions

An incorrectly operating runner system can affect airflow and combustion, potentially increasing emissions.

---

Engine May Still Run Normally

Some vehicles may show almost no noticeable symptoms apart from the Check Engine Light.

The ECM/PCM may place the runner system into a default position to maintain basic engine operation.

---

Common Causes of P2019

Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor

A defective position sensor is a common possibility.

Possible failures include:

• Internal electrical failure

• Incorrect output

• Intermittent signal

• Internal wear

• Dead spots

• Incorrect resistance

• Damaged sensing element

---

Faulty Position Switch

If the vehicle uses a position switch rather than a variable position sensor, the switch itself may be defective.

---

Open Circuit

An open circuit can prevent the ECM/PCM from receiving the expected position feedback.

Possible causes include:

• Broken wire

• Damaged terminal

• Loose connector

• Failed splice

• Harness damage

---

Short Circuit

A short to ground or voltage can distort the position signal.

The exact result depends on the circuit design.

---

Damaged Wiring Harness

The wiring around the intake manifold can be exposed to:

• High temperatures

• Vibration

• Oil

• Moisture

• Chafing

• Engine movement

A damaged harness can cause an intermittent or incorrect position signal.

---

Corroded Electrical Connector

Corrosion increases electrical resistance and can interfere with the sensor signal.

---

Loose Electrical Terminal

A loose terminal can cause intermittent contact between the sensor and ECM/PCM.

---

Faulty Runner Actuator

An electric actuator may fail because of:

• Internal motor failure

• Gear damage

• Electrical problems

• Position-control problems

• Mechanical binding

---

Sticking Runner Flaps

The runner mechanism can become stuck because of:

• Carbon deposits

• Dirt

• Corrosion

• Worn bushings

• Damaged shafts

• Mechanical obstruction

---

Carbon Buildup

Carbon buildup inside the intake manifold can restrict runner movement.

The actuator may command the flap to move while the mechanism remains partially stuck.

---

Damaged Runner Linkage

The linkage between the actuator and runner may be:

• Broken

• Disconnected

• Loose

• Worn

• Bent

---

Vacuum Leak or Vacuum Actuator Problem

Some runner systems are vacuum-operated.

Possible causes include:

• Cracked vacuum hose

• Disconnected hose

• Damaged diaphragm

• Insufficient vacuum

• Faulty vacuum-control solenoid

---

Faulty Runner Control Solenoid

A vacuum control solenoid may fail to supply or release vacuum correctly.

---

Incorrect Sensor Installation

A recently replaced sensor may be:

• Incorrectly positioned

• Improperly mounted

• Loose

• Incorrectly connected

• Incorrectly aligned

---

Incorrect Replacement Sensor

A sensor that physically fits but has incompatible electrical characteristics can produce incorrect feedback.

---

Intake Manifold Mechanical Damage

The internal runner mechanism can become damaged.

Possible problems include:

• Broken flap

• Worn shaft

• Damaged bushings

• Broken internal linkage

• Internal obstruction

---

ECM/PCM Software Problem

In some cases, software or calibration can affect how the runner position is monitored.

A manufacturer software update may be available for certain applications.

---

ECM/PCM Fault

A control-module fault is possible but should generally be considered only after the sensor, wiring, connector, actuator, and mechanical runner system have been tested.

---

Vehicles Commonly Affected by P2019

P2019 can occur on many vehicles equipped with an intake manifold runner position sensor or switch on Bank 2.

Examples include:

• Ford F-150

• Ford Explorer

• Ford Expedition

• Ford Mustang

• Chevrolet Silverado

• Chevrolet Tahoe

• Chevrolet Suburban

• GMC Sierra

• GMC Yukon

• Cadillac Escalade

• Dodge Charger

• Dodge Challenger

• Jeep Grand Cherokee

• Ram 1500

• Toyota Tundra

• Toyota Sequoia

• Nissan Pathfinder

• Nissan Armada

• Infiniti QX80

• BMW 3 Series

• BMW 5 Series

• Mercedes-Benz E-Class

• Audi Q7

• Volkswagen Touareg

• Porsche Cayenne

This list is not exhaustive.

The exact application depends on:

• Model year

• Engine

• Intake manifold design

• Runner control strategy

• Sensor configuration

• Electrical circuit

• ECM/PCM calibration

P2019 is a generic powertrain code, but the exact diagnostic definition and threshold can differ between manufacturers.

---

How Is P2019 Diagnosed?

P2019 should be diagnosed by determining whether the problem is primarily electrical, mechanical, actuator-related, or vacuum-related.

Replacing the position sensor immediately is not always the correct solution.

---

Step 1: Scan for Additional Trouble Codes

Use a suitable diagnostic scan tool to retrieve:

• Stored codes

• Pending codes

• History codes

• Freeze-frame data

Look for related codes involving:

• Intake manifold runner control

• Runner position

• Runner actuator

• Vacuum control

• Electrical circuits

• Engine performance

• Misfires

Additional codes can help identify the root cause.

---

Step 2: Review Freeze-Frame Data

Determine the conditions under which P2019 was stored.

Depending on the scan tool, check:

• Engine RPM

• Engine load

• Vehicle speed

• Throttle position

• Engine coolant temperature

• Intake air temperature

• Battery voltage

• Runner commanded position

• Runner actual position

This can reveal whether the problem occurs only at a particular engine speed or load.

---

Step 3: Monitor Live Runner Position Data

If the scan tool provides the relevant data, monitor the Bank 2 runner position.

Compare:

Commanded position vs. actual position

Look for:

• No movement

• Incorrect movement

• Frozen position

• Sudden position changes

• Intermittent signal

• Position mismatch

A sensor value that does not change when the runner is commanded to move is particularly important.

---

Step 4: Inspect the Runner Position Sensor

Check for:

• Physical damage

• Contamination

• Loose mounting

• Incorrect alignment

• Incorrect installation

• Corrosion

---

Step 5: Inspect the Electrical Connector

Check for:

• Corrosion

• Moisture

• Bent pins

• Loose terminals

• Poor terminal tension

• Damaged seals

• Broken connector locks

---

Step 6: Check Reference Voltage

Use the vehicle-specific wiring diagram and service specifications to identify and test the sensor reference circuit.

Do not assume the pin configuration because runner position sensors differ between manufacturers.

---

Step 7: Check Sensor Ground

Verify that the sensor ground is within the manufacturer's specification.

A poor ground can distort the position signal.

---

Step 8: Measure the Sensor Signal

Measure the Bank 2 position sensor output while the runner mechanism is commanded through its operating range.

The signal should behave consistently with runner movement.

Look for:

• Dead spots

• Sudden voltage jumps

• Flat spots

• Dropouts

• Incorrect output

• Signal that does not correspond to physical position

---

Step 9: Check Wiring Continuity

Test the relevant wiring according to the manufacturer's diagnostic procedure.

Check for:

• Open circuit

• Short to ground

• Short to voltage

• Excessive resistance

• Poor terminal contact

---

Step 10: Perform a Wiggle Test

Monitor the sensor signal while carefully moving the connector and harness.

If the signal changes unexpectedly, an intermittent wiring or connector problem may exist.

---

Step 11: Command the Runner Actuator

If supported by the diagnostic equipment, command the Bank 2 runner actuator through its operating range.

Verify that it:

• Moves smoothly

• Reaches commanded positions

• Does not stick

• Does not stop prematurely

• Responds consistently

---

Step 12: Inspect the Runner Linkage

Check for:

• Broken linkage

• Disconnected linkage

• Excessive play

• Worn joints

• Bent components

---

Step 13: Check for Mechanical Binding

Verify that the runner mechanism moves freely.

If movement is restricted, inspect for:

• Carbon buildup

• Dirt

• Corrosion

• Worn bushings

• Damaged flaps

• Internal manifold damage

---

Step 14: Check Vacuum Operation

For vacuum-operated systems, inspect:

• Vacuum supply

• Vacuum hoses

• Control solenoid

• Actuator diaphragm

• Vacuum reservoir where applicable

---

Step 15: Compare Bank 1 and Bank 2

If the engine uses similar runner systems on both banks, compare:

• Position sensor signals

• Runner movement

• Actuator operation

• Commanded vs. actual position

A normal Bank 1 system can provide a useful reference.

However, the two banks should only be compared when their designs and control strategies are equivalent.

---

Step 16: Check Manufacturer Technical Information

Check for:

• Technical Service Bulletins

• Known runner-system problems

• Wiring issues

• Connector problems

• Updated sensors

• Updated actuators

• Software updates

• Calibration procedures

Manufacturer-specific information is particularly important for P2019 because the exact definition and diagnostic thresholds can vary.

---

Step 17: Verify the ECM/PCM

If the sensor, wiring, connector, actuator, vacuum system, and mechanical runner mechanism all test correctly but P2019 continues to return, further ECM/PCM testing may be required.

---

How to Fix P2019

The correct repair depends on the actual cause.

Replace the Faulty Runner Position Sensor

If testing confirms that the Bank 2 position sensor is defective, replace it with the correct vehicle-specific component.

---

Repair Damaged Wiring

Repair or replace wiring affected by:

• Heat

• Chafing

• Vibration

• Oil

• Corrosion

• Previous repairs

Secure the harness properly after the repair.

---

Repair Electrical Connectors

Repair or replace connectors with:

• Corroded terminals

• Loose pins

• Bent terminals

• Poor terminal tension

• Damaged seals

---

Correct Sensor Ground or Reference Problems

If testing identifies a reference-voltage or ground problem, repair the relevant circuit.

---

Repair the Runner Actuator

If the actuator cannot move the runner correctly, repair or replace it.

---

Repair the Runner Linkage

Replace broken, disconnected, or excessively worn linkage components.

---

Clean or Repair the Runner Mechanism

If carbon buildup or contamination is restricting runner movement, clean or repair the mechanism according to the manufacturer's service procedure.

---

Repair Vacuum System Problems

For vacuum-operated runner systems, repair:

• Cracked hoses

• Disconnected hoses

• Faulty control solenoids

• Vacuum leaks

• Damaged actuator diaphragms

---

Replace the Intake Manifold

If the internal runner mechanism is damaged and cannot be repaired separately, the intake manifold may require replacement.

---

Update ECM/PCM Software

If a manufacturer software update addresses an incorrect runner-control or monitoring strategy, update the module according to the manufacturer's procedure.

---

Repair or Replace the ECM/PCM

If all external components and circuits are confirmed to be correct but the control module continues to report P2019, further module testing may be required.

ECM/PCM replacement should be a last step.

---

Clear the Code and Verify the Repair

After completing the repair:

1. Clear P2019.

2. Monitor Bank 2 runner position data.

3. Compare commanded and actual runner positions.

4. Check sensor signal voltage.

5. Verify reference voltage.

6. Verify sensor ground.

7. Inspect the connector.

8. Perform a wiggle test.

9. Test the runner actuator.

10. Inspect the runner linkage.

11. Check for mechanical binding.

12. Check vacuum operation where applicable.

13. Complete any required calibration or relearn.

14. Perform the appropriate drive cycle.

15. Confirm that P2019 does not return.

The vehicle should ideally be tested under the operating conditions in which the original fault occurred.

---

What Happens If P2019 Is Ignored?

P2019 usually does not mean that the engine will immediately fail.

However, the ECM/PCM may not be able to properly control or monitor the Bank 2 intake runner system.

Possible consequences include:

• Reduced engine performance

• Poor throttle response

• Reduced torque

• Poor fuel economy

• Increased emissions

• Rough idle

• Occasional misfire

• Additional intake-system faults

• Continued Check Engine Light

These symptoms are consistent with the general effects reported for P2019, although not every vehicle will experience all of them.

---

Can You Drive With P2019?

In many cases, a vehicle with P2019 can still be driven to a repair facility if the engine is operating normally.

The code generally does not mean that the vehicle will immediately become undrivable.

However, the problem should be diagnosed and repaired rather than ignored.

Drive more cautiously if the vehicle also has:

• Severe hesitation

• Major power loss

• Engine misfires

• Stalling

• Rough running

• Multiple engine-control codes

• Poor throttle response

If the Check Engine Light is flashing or the engine is actively misfiring, the vehicle should be inspected promptly.

---

Is P2019 a Serious Code?

P2019 is generally considered a low-to-moderate severity diagnostic trouble code.

The vehicle may continue operating, particularly if the ECM/PCM can place the intake runner system into a default position.

However, the severity depends on the underlying fault.

A sensor or connector problem may produce relatively minor symptoms.

A mechanically stuck runner, failed actuator, damaged linkage, or significant intake-manifold problem can cause more noticeable performance problems.

Ignoring P2019 may result in:

• Reduced engine performance

• Reduced fuel economy

• Increased emissions

• Continued Check Engine Light

• Poor intake-air management

• Additional runner-system problems

---

P2019 vs. P2020

P2019 and P2020 are closely related Bank 2 codes but should not be treated as identical.

Code	General Meaning
P2019	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit (Bank 2)
P2020	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Range / Performance (Bank 2)

P2019 is a more general circuit fault description.

P2020 specifically identifies a range/performance condition.

The distinction matters because P2019 can point toward a circuit, sensor, connector, actuator, or mechanical runner problem, while P2020 more strongly emphasizes that the reported position or runner operation does not match the expected performance characteristics.

---

P2019 vs. P2021

Code	General Meaning
P2019	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit (Bank 2)
P2021	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Low (Bank 2)

P2019 identifies a general Bank 2 runner position circuit problem.

P2021 specifically identifies a low electrical signal.

Therefore, a P2021 diagnosis should pay particular attention to:

• Signal voltage

• Short to ground

• Reference voltage

• Sensor ground

• Wiring

P2019 requires a broader investigation because its generic description does not by itself identify the signal as low or high.

---

P2019 vs. P2022

Code	General Meaning
P2019	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit (Bank 2)
P2022	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit High (Bank 2)

P2019 describes a general circuit malfunction.

P2022 specifically indicates a high circuit signal.

A P2022 diagnosis should therefore focus heavily on the sensor signal, reference circuit, wiring, and possible short to voltage.

---

P2019 vs. P2023

Code	General Meaning
P2019	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit (Bank 2)
P2023	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2)

P2019 describes a general circuit problem.

P2023 specifically indicates an intermittent condition.

An intermittent wiring harness, loose terminal, or connector problem can sometimes cause P2023 rather than a continuously present P2019.

---

P2019 vs. P2015

Code	General Meaning
P2015	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Range / Performance (Bank 1)
P2019	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit (Bank 2)

These codes concern different cylinder banks.

P2015 = Bank 1, range/performance

P2019 = Bank 2, general circuit fault

---

P2019 vs. P2017

Code	General Meaning
P2017	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit High (Bank 1)
P2019	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit (Bank 2)

P2017 describes a high signal condition on Bank 1.

P2019 concerns the Bank 2 runner position circuit without the generic description itself specifying high or low.

---

P2019 vs. P2076

P2076 concerns the Intake Manifold Tuning (IMT) Valve Position Sensor/Switch Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 1).

Code	General Meaning
P2019	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit (Bank 2)
P2076	Intake Manifold Tuning (IMT) Valve Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Range / Performance (Bank 1)

Although the descriptions are similar, these codes should not automatically be assumed to identify the same component.

Different manufacturers may use different terminology and different intake-air control mechanisms.

---

How to Prevent P2019

Not every runner-system fault can be prevented, but proper maintenance can reduce the likelihood of problems.

Recommended practices include:

• Inspect runner-system wiring during routine service.

• Keep wiring away from excessive engine heat.

• Secure wiring harnesses against vibration.

• Check connectors for corrosion.

• Prevent moisture from entering electrical connectors.

• Repair damaged wiring promptly.

• Inspect vacuum hoses on vacuum-operated systems.

• Address excessive intake carbon buildup when appropriate.

• Repair runner linkage problems early.

• Use the correct replacement sensor.

• Perform required calibration procedures after component replacement.

• Make sure electrical connectors are fully seated.

• Avoid damaging wiring during intake manifold repairs.

• Follow manufacturer maintenance recommendations.

• Do not ignore Check Engine Light warnings.

---

Final Thoughts

P2019 Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2) indicates that the ECM/PCM has detected a problem involving the Bank 2 intake manifold runner position sensor or switch circuit.

The important point is that P2019 is a general circuit fault description and should not automatically be interpreted as a simple low-voltage or high-voltage problem.

Depending on the vehicle, the underlying cause may be:

• Faulty runner position sensor

• Failed position switch

• Open circuit

• Short circuit

• Damaged wiring

• Corroded connector

• Loose electrical terminal

• Faulty runner actuator

• Sticking runner flaps

• Carbon buildup

• Damaged linkage

• Vacuum-control problems

• Incorrect sensor installation

• Incorrect replacement sensor

• Mechanical damage inside the intake manifold

• ECM/PCM software or hardware problems

The correct diagnostic approach is to determine whether the fault is electrical or mechanical.

Start by scanning for additional trouble codes and reviewing freeze-frame data. Then monitor Bank 2 runner position data and compare the commanded position with the actual feedback.

The sensor's reference voltage, ground, signal circuit, wiring continuity, and connector condition should be checked according to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications.

If the electrical circuit is correct, inspect the actuator, linkage, vacuum system where applicable, and physical runner mechanism for binding, carbon buildup, or mechanical damage.

The position sensor should not automatically be replaced simply because P2019 is stored.

P2019 is generally a low-to-moderate severity fault, and many vehicles can still be driven. However, repairing the problem is important because a malfunctioning intake runner system can affect engine performance, torque, fuel economy, and emissions.

After the underlying fault has been corrected, the code should be cleared and the vehicle should be tested under the appropriate operating conditions. The Bank 2 runner should respond correctly to commands, the position feedback should be plausible, and P2019 should not return.