P2023 Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2)

P2023 Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2) is a generic OBD-II diagnostic trouble code indicating that the vehicle's control module has detected an intermittent electrical signal or position-feedback problem from the intake manifold runner position sensor or switch on Bank 2.

The intake manifold runner system controls airflow through the intake manifold. Depending on engine speed and load, the intake manifold runners may change position to improve airflow, torque, fuel efficiency, emissions, or engine performance.

The runner position sensor or switch tells the engine control module where the intake manifold runner mechanism is positioned.

If the signal from the Bank 2 runner position sensor becomes unstable, disappears temporarily, changes unexpectedly, or does not consistently correspond to the commanded runner position, the control module may store P2023 and illuminate the Check Engine Light.

In simple terms, P2023 means the ECM/PCM is intermittently losing or receiving an unreliable position signal from the intake manifold runner system on Bank 2.

The word “Intermittent” is especially important.

The sensor may work correctly most of the time but occasionally:

• Lose its signal

• Produce an unstable voltage

• Drop out temporarily

• Jump between values

• Report an incorrect position

• Become disconnected electrically

• Fail when the engine or wiring vibrates

• Fail only at certain temperatures

• Fail only during certain engine operating conditions

Possible causes include:

• Faulty intake manifold runner position sensor

• Failing runner position switch

• Damaged sensor wiring

• Loose electrical connector

• Corroded terminals

• Poor terminal tension

• Broken wire inside the insulation

• Wiring harness chafing

• Heat-damaged wiring

• Poor sensor ground

• Incorrect reference voltage

• Intermittent short to ground

• Intermittent short to voltage

• Sticking intake manifold runner

• Damaged runner linkage

• Loose actuator linkage

• Faulty intake manifold runner actuator

• Carbon buildup

• Mechanical binding

• Faulty control module

• Software or calibration problems

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What Does P2023 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 (IMRC), Intake Manifold Tuning (IMT), or similar system to alter the effective intake-air path.

The purpose is to optimize airflow under different conditions.

Depending on the engine design, runner control may be used to improve:

• Low-speed torque

• High-speed airflow

• Throttle response

• Fuel efficiency

• Combustion quality

• Emissions performance

The exact operating strategy differs between manufacturers and engines.

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Position Sensor / Switch

The position sensor or switch provides feedback about the physical position of the intake manifold runner mechanism.

The engine control module can compare:

Commanded runner position → Actual runner position

If the system commands a specific position but the feedback signal suddenly disappears or becomes inconsistent, the module may detect a fault.

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Bank 2

Bank 2 refers to the side of a V-type engine that does not contain cylinder number one.

For example:

• Bank 1 = side containing cylinder number one

• Bank 2 = opposite side

This distinction applies primarily to engines with more than one cylinder bank.

Inline engines normally have only one bank, so a Bank 2 code generally points toward a multi-bank engine application.

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Intermittent

This is the most important part of P2023.

An intermittent circuit fault means the problem does not occur continuously.

For example, the sensor may work normally for several minutes and then suddenly lose its signal.

The problem may appear when:

• The engine vibrates

• The vehicle hits a bump

• The wiring moves

• Engine temperature increases

• The connector expands with heat

• The runner actuator moves

• Engine load changes

• Engine speed changes

• The harness contacts another component

This is why P2023 can sometimes be difficult to diagnose.

A visual inspection may show nothing wrong because the circuit may be functioning normally when the technician checks it.

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How Does the Intake Manifold Runner System Work?

The intake manifold runner system changes the way air travels into the engine.

Some systems use:

• Vacuum-operated actuators

• Electric motors

• Solenoids

• Linkages

• Flaps or valves

• Position sensors

• Position switches

At certain engine speeds and loads, the control module commands the runner mechanism to move.

The mechanism changes the effective intake-air path.

The position sensor then reports the resulting position back to the control module.

The simplified control loop is:

ECM command → Runner actuator moves → Runner mechanism changes position → Position sensor reports position → ECM verifies operation

P2023 can occur when the feedback signal becomes intermittent during this process.

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Symptoms of P2023

Symptoms depend on the engine and the severity of the intermittent fault.

Check Engine Light

The most common symptom is an illuminated Check Engine Light.

Because the fault is intermittent, the light may sometimes appear and later disappear.

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Engine Hesitation

The vehicle may hesitate during acceleration if the runner system does not maintain the correct position.

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Reduced Engine Power

Incorrect intake runner operation can affect airflow and engine torque.

The driver may notice reduced performance.

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Poor Throttle Response

The engine may respond more slowly to accelerator input.

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Rough or Unstable Idle

If the runner system is malfunctioning at low engine speed, idle quality may be affected on some engines.

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Reduced Fuel Economy

Incorrect intake airflow can affect combustion efficiency and fuel control.

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Lack of Low-Speed Torque

A runner system designed to improve low-speed airflow may fail to provide the expected torque.

The vehicle may feel weaker when accelerating from low RPM.

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Reduced High-RPM Performance

Depending on the runner design, the engine may also lose performance at higher RPM.

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Engine Operating Normally

Some vehicles with P2023 may continue to operate almost normally.

This is especially common when the fault occurs only occasionally.

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Common Causes of P2023

Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor

The position sensor may be beginning to fail internally.

Possible symptoms include:

• Signal dropouts

• Voltage fluctuations

• Dead spots

• Incorrect position readings

• Temperature-sensitive operation

A sensor can function correctly during a stationary test but fail during actual driving.

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Failing Position Switch

Some runner systems use a switch rather than a continuously variable position sensor.

A worn or damaged switch may intermittently fail to indicate the expected position.

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Loose Electrical Connector

A loose connector is one of the most important possibilities with an intermittent code.

Vibration can temporarily interrupt the electrical connection.

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Corroded Terminals

Corrosion increases electrical resistance and can create unstable electrical contact.

Moisture around the intake manifold can contribute to connector corrosion.

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Poor Terminal Tension

A connector terminal may appear clean and properly connected but fail to maintain sufficient pressure against the sensor pin.

This can cause intermittent signal loss.

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Broken Wire Inside the Insulation

A wire can break internally while its outer insulation remains intact.

The wire may make contact when stationary and lose contact when the harness moves.

This is a classic cause of intermittent diagnostic codes.

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Harness Chafing

The runner sensor wiring may rub against:

• Intake components

• Engine brackets

• Wiring clips

• Metal surfaces

• Other harnesses

Over time, the insulation can wear through.

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Heat-Damaged Wiring

Wiring located near hot engine components can become brittle or damaged.

Heat can cause intermittent electrical faults that appear only after the engine reaches operating temperature.

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Poor Sensor Ground

An unstable ground can cause the sensor output to fluctuate or disappear.

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Incorrect Reference Voltage

If the sensor uses a reference voltage, an unstable reference circuit can affect the position signal.

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Intermittent Short to Ground

A damaged signal wire may occasionally contact ground.

This can produce sudden signal drops.

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Intermittent Short to Voltage

A damaged wire may occasionally contact a powered circuit.

This can produce unexpected signal spikes.

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Sticking Intake Manifold Runner

The problem may not be purely electrical.

The runner mechanism can become mechanically stuck because of:

• Carbon deposits

• Dirt

• Corrosion

• Damaged linkage

• Worn bushings

• Mechanical deformation

A sticking runner can cause the actual position to behave unexpectedly.

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Damaged Runner Linkage

The actuator may move while the runner itself does not move correctly.

Possible problems include:

• Broken linkage

• Loose linkage

• Worn connection

• Disconnected actuator rod

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Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Actuator

An electric or vacuum actuator may intermittently fail to move the runner mechanism.

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Vacuum Leak or Vacuum Supply Problem

Vacuum-operated runner systems depend on correct vacuum supply.

Possible problems include:

• Cracked vacuum hose

• Disconnected hose

• Faulty vacuum solenoid

• Vacuum reservoir problem

• Insufficient vacuum

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Faulty Runner Control Solenoid

Some systems use a solenoid to control vacuum to the runner actuator.

A malfunctioning solenoid can cause incorrect runner movement.

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Carbon Buildup

Carbon deposits can restrict runner movement.

The actuator may command movement, but the mechanism may stick or move inconsistently.

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Control Module Problems

In rare cases, the ECM/PCM may have an internal problem affecting the runner position input circuit.

The control module should generally be considered only after the sensor, wiring, actuator, and mechanical system have been tested.

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Software or Calibration Problems

A software or calibration issue can occasionally cause incorrect interpretation of runner position feedback.

A manufacturer software update may be available for certain vehicles.

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Vehicles Commonly Affected by P2023

P2023 can occur on vehicles equipped with an electronically or vacuum-controlled intake manifold runner system and a Bank 2 position sensor or switch.

Examples may 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 of P2023 depends on:

• Model year

• Engine

• Intake manifold design

• Runner control strategy

• Sensor configuration

• ECM software

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How Is P2023 Diagnosed?

Because P2023 is an intermittent fault, diagnosis should focus on reproducing the condition that causes the signal to disappear or become unstable.

Simply checking the sensor with the engine off may not be enough.

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Step 1: Scan for Additional Trouble Codes

Use a suitable scan tool to retrieve:

• Stored codes

• Pending codes

• History codes

• Freeze-frame data

Look for related codes involving:

• Intake manifold runner control

• Runner actuator

• Position sensor

• Position switch

• Vacuum system

• Wiring

• Engine performance

• Misfires

Additional codes can provide important clues.

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Step 2: Review Freeze-Frame Data

Check the conditions under which P2023 was stored.

Depending on scan-tool capability, review:

• Engine RPM

• Engine load

• Vehicle speed

• Throttle position

• Engine coolant temperature

• Intake air temperature

• Runner commanded position

• Runner actual position

• Battery voltage

This can help identify whether the problem occurs at a specific RPM, temperature, or load.

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Step 3: Monitor Live Runner Position Data

Use a scan tool capable of displaying intake runner data.

Compare:

Commanded position vs. actual position

Look for:

• Sudden signal drops

• Position jumps

• Frozen values

• Unexplained movement

• Missing position feedback

• Position changes that do not match the command

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Step 4: Determine Whether the Fault Is Electrical or Mechanical

This is an important diagnostic decision.

If the commanded position changes but the sensor signal suddenly disappears, suspect:

• Sensor

• Wiring

• Connector

• Reference circuit

• Ground

If the sensor signal remains stable but the runner does not physically move, suspect:

• Actuator

• Linkage

• Runner mechanism

• Carbon buildup

• Vacuum supply

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Step 5: Inspect the Runner Sensor

Check the sensor for:

• Physical damage

• Loose mounting

• Contamination

• Corrosion

• Incorrect installation

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Step 6: Inspect the Electrical Connector

Check for:

• Corrosion

• Moisture

• Bent pins

• Loose terminals

• Poor terminal tension

• Damaged seals

• Broken connector locks

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Step 7: Inspect the Wiring Harness

Follow the wiring from the runner sensor toward the engine harness.

Look for:

• Chafing

• Melted insulation

• Broken wires

• Pinched wiring

• Loose harness clips

• Previous repairs

• Oil contamination

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Step 8: Perform a Wiggle Test

Because the fault is intermittent, this is especially useful.

Monitor the runner position signal while carefully moving:

• Sensor connector

• Sensor wiring

• Harness branches

• Nearby connectors

If the signal suddenly changes or disappears, an intermittent wiring or connector problem may have been found.

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Step 9: Check Reference Voltage

If applicable, verify that the sensor receives the correct reference voltage.

Compare the measurement with the manufacturer's specifications.

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Step 10: Check Sensor Ground

Verify the sensor ground circuit.

An unstable ground can create intermittent sensor output.

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Step 11: Check Signal Voltage

Measure the position sensor signal while moving the runner mechanism through its operating range.

The signal should change smoothly and consistently according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Look for:

• Dropouts

• Sudden voltage changes

• Dead spots

• Erratic readings

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Step 12: Check Sensor Resistance Where Applicable

If the sensor design allows resistance testing, compare the measured values with the manufacturer's specifications.

Do not apply a generic resistance value because different sensor designs use different characteristics.

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Step 13: Test the Runner Actuator

Command the actuator through the appropriate scan-tool or manufacturer test procedure.

Verify that the actuator:

• Moves correctly

• Reaches the commanded position

• Does not stick

• Does not stop unexpectedly

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Step 14: Inspect the Runner Linkage

Physically inspect the linkage between the actuator and intake manifold runner.

Check for:

• Loose connections

• Broken rods

• Excessive play

• Disconnected linkage

• Worn components

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Step 15: Check for Mechanical Binding

Move the runner mechanism according to the manufacturer's service procedure.

It should move smoothly without excessive resistance.

If it sticks, investigate:

• Carbon deposits

• Corrosion

• Damaged runner

• Worn bushings

• Mechanical obstruction

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Step 16: Check Vacuum Operation

For vacuum-operated systems, inspect:

• Vacuum hoses

• Vacuum solenoids

• Vacuum reservoir

• Actuator diaphragm

• Vacuum supply

Verify that the actuator receives the required vacuum.

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Step 17: Compare Bank 1 and Bank 2

On engines with comparable runner systems, compare the behavior of Bank 1 and Bank 2.

If Bank 1 operates normally while Bank 2 intermittently loses position feedback, this can help isolate the problem to the Bank 2 sensor, wiring, actuator, or runner mechanism.

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Step 18: Inspect Engine Vibration Effects

Because P2023 is intermittent, consider whether engine movement causes the fault.

Check wiring and connectors while the engine is running under safe diagnostic conditions.

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Step 19: Check Manufacturer Technical Information

Look for:

• Technical Service Bulletins

• Known wiring issues

• Connector problems

• Updated runner sensors

• Updated actuators

• Software updates

• Manufacturer diagnostic procedures

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Step 20: Verify the Control Module

If the sensor, wiring, actuator, mechanical runner system, and related components are all confirmed to be correct, the ECM/PCM input circuit may require further testing.

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How to Fix P2023

The correct repair depends on the cause of the intermittent signal.

Replace the Faulty Runner Position Sensor

If testing confirms that the Bank 2 position sensor has internal signal dropouts or incorrect output, replace the sensor with the correct vehicle-specific component.

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Repair the Electrical Connector

Repair or replace connectors with:

• Corroded terminals

• Loose terminals

• Bent pins

• Damaged seals

• Poor terminal tension

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Repair Broken or Damaged Wiring

Repair wiring damaged by:

• Chafing

• Heat

• Vibration

• Corrosion

• Previous repairs

• Road debris

Make sure the repaired harness is properly secured.

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Repair an Intermittent Open Circuit

If a wire is broken internally or intermittently disconnected, repair the affected circuit according to the manufacturer's wiring specifications.

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Repair an Intermittent Short

If the signal wire intermittently contacts ground or another voltage source, locate the damaged section and repair the wiring.

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Correct Reference Voltage Problems

If the sensor reference voltage is unstable, diagnose and repair the applicable circuit.

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Repair Sensor Ground Problems

Restore a reliable sensor ground where applicable.

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Repair the Runner Actuator

If the actuator intermittently fails to move the runner, repair or replace the actuator as required.

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Repair the Runner Linkage

Replace broken, loose, or excessively worn linkage components.

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Clean or Repair the Runner Mechanism

If carbon deposits or mechanical contamination are preventing smooth movement, clean or repair the runner mechanism according to the manufacturer's service procedure.

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Repair Vacuum System Problems

For vacuum-operated runner systems, repair:

• Cracked hoses

• Disconnected hoses

• Faulty solenoids

• Vacuum leaks

• Damaged actuator diaphragms

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Repair or Replace the Intake Manifold

If the runner mechanism is internally damaged or cannot be repaired separately, the intake manifold may require repair or replacement.

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Update ECM Software

If the manufacturer has released a software update addressing the runner position monitoring strategy, the appropriate update may correct the problem.

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Repair or Replace the ECM/PCM

If all external components and circuits test correctly but the module continues to report an intermittent position-sensor circuit fault, further ECM/PCM testing may be required.

Module replacement should be considered only after the wiring and sensor have been verified.

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Clear the Code and Verify the Repair

After completing the repair:

1. Clear P2023.

2. Monitor Bank 2 runner position data.

3. Compare commanded and actual runner positions.

4. Check sensor signal voltage.

5. Verify reference or supply 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. Compare Bank 1 and Bank 2 operation where appropriate.

14. Complete the required drive cycle.

15. Confirm that P2023 does not return.

Because P2023 is intermittent, the vehicle should be tested under the operating conditions that originally caused the fault whenever possible.

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What Happens If P2023 Is Ignored?

P2023 generally does not cause immediate engine failure.

However, an intermittent intake runner position signal can cause the engine control module to lose confidence in the runner system's actual position.

Possible consequences include:

• Reduced engine performance

• Poor throttle response

• Reduced fuel economy

• Increased emissions

• Incorrect intake airflow control

• Check Engine Light illumination

• Reduced low-speed torque

• Reduced high-RPM performance

If the runner mechanism becomes mechanically stuck, engine performance may become more noticeable.

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Can You Drive With P2023?

In many cases, a vehicle with P2023 can still be driven if the engine starts and operates normally.

However, the intermittent fault should not be ignored.

If the runner system is only occasionally losing its position signal, the vehicle may continue operating with relatively minor symptoms.

Driving should be treated more cautiously if the vehicle also has:

• Severe hesitation

• Significant power loss

• Rough running

• Engine misfires

• Multiple engine-control codes

• Stalling

• Poor throttle response

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

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Is P2023 a Serious Code?

P2023 is generally considered a low-to-moderate severity diagnostic trouble code.

It normally does not mean that the engine will immediately stop operating.

However, the intake manifold runner system can affect engine airflow and performance.

Ignoring the problem may result in:

• Continued Check Engine Light

• Reduced performance

• Poor fuel economy

• Increased emissions

• Additional runner-system faults

• Incomplete emissions readiness monitors

The severity depends largely on whether the problem is limited to an intermittent sensor circuit or whether the runner mechanism itself is mechanically failing.

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P2023 vs. P2022

P2022 and P2023 are closely related but describe different conditions.

Code	General Meaning
P2022	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit High (Bank 2)
P2023	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2)

P2022 indicates that the control module has detected a high signal condition.

P2023 indicates that the signal is intermittent.

Therefore, P2022 focuses on the signal level, while P2023 focuses on the unstable or intermittent nature of the circuit.

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P2023 vs. P2021

Code	General Meaning
P2021	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Low (Bank 2)
P2023	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2)

P2021 indicates a low signal.

P2023 indicates that the signal occasionally becomes unreliable or disappears.

A wiring problem can sometimes produce different codes depending on when and how the circuit fails.

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P2023 vs. P2020

Code	General Meaning
P2020	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Range / Performance (Bank 2)
P2023	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2)

P2020 indicates that the runner position signal is outside the expected range or does not perform correctly.

P2023 specifically indicates an intermittent circuit condition.

A mechanically sticking runner may contribute to P2020, while a loose connector or broken wire may be more strongly associated with P2023.

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P2023 vs. P2024 and P2025

These codes can look similar because they are close together in the diagnostic code sequence, but they concern different systems.

Code	General Meaning
P2023	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2)
P2024	EVAP Fuel Vapor Temperature Sensor Circuit Malfunction
P2025	EVAP Fuel Vapor Temperature Sensor Circuit Range / Performance

P2023 concerns the intake manifold runner system.

P2024 and P2025 concern the EVAP fuel vapor temperature sensor circuit.

They should therefore be diagnosed separately.

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P2023 vs. P2079

Both codes involve intake-air management, but they describe different systems.

Code	General Meaning
P2023	Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2)
P2079	Intake Manifold Tuning (IMT) Valve Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Intermittent (Bank 1)

The terminology can vary between manufacturers, but the bank designation and specific intake-control strategy are important.

Do not assume that P2023 and P2079 refer to exactly the same component on every vehicle.

Always verify the vehicle-specific service information.

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How to Prevent P2023

Not every intermittent electrical failure can be prevented, but regular maintenance can reduce the risk.

Recommended practices include:

• Inspect intake runner wiring during routine service.

• Keep wiring away from exhaust heat.

• Secure harnesses against excessive vibration.

• Repair damaged wiring promptly.

• Check connectors for corrosion.

• Prevent moisture from entering electrical connectors.

• Inspect vacuum hoses on vacuum-operated systems.

• Address intake manifold carbon buildup where applicable.

• Repair runner linkage problems early.

• Use the correct replacement sensor.

• Make sure connectors are fully seated.

• Avoid damaging wiring during intake manifold repairs.

• Do not ignore Check Engine Light warnings.

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Final Thoughts

P2023 Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor / Switch Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2) indicates that the vehicle's control module has detected an intermittent problem with the position feedback circuit of the Bank 2 intake manifold runner system.

The most important word in this code is “Intermittent.”

The sensor or circuit may function normally most of the time but occasionally:

• Lose the signal

• Produce unstable voltage

• Drop out

• Jump between values

• Report an implausible position

• Lose electrical contact because of vibration or temperature

Possible causes include:

• Faulty runner position sensor

• Failing position switch

• Loose connector

• Corroded terminals

• Poor terminal tension

• Broken wire

• Harness chafing

• Heat-damaged wiring

• Poor sensor ground

• Reference-voltage problems

• Intermittent shorts

• Faulty runner actuator

• Sticking runner mechanism

• Carbon buildup

• Damaged linkage

• Vacuum-system problems on vacuum-operated designs

• Control-module problems

• Software or calibration issues

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

A technician should scan for additional codes, review freeze-frame data, monitor commanded and actual runner position, inspect the Bank 2 sensor and connector, check the reference and ground circuits, monitor the sensor signal for dropouts, perform a wiggle test, inspect the harness, test the actuator, check the linkage, and verify that the runner moves smoothly.

The sensor should not automatically be replaced simply because P2023 is stored.

Because the fault is intermittent, a stationary inspection may not reproduce the problem. The vehicle should ideally be tested under the conditions in which the code originally appeared.

P2023 generally does not cause immediate engine failure, and many vehicles can still be driven. However, the problem should be repaired because an unreliable runner-position signal can affect intake-air management, engine performance, fuel economy, and emissions.

After the underlying fault has been corrected, the code should be cleared and the vehicle should be driven through the appropriate operating conditions to verify that the Bank 2 runner position signal remains stable and that P2023 does not return.