Has a P0234 code 3 years ago diagnosed and had both cam actuator solenoids replaced. Road trip last week saw another Check Engine light and diagnosed at Autozone as P0234 with the most likely solution being "Turbocharger Wastegate Solenoid." I assume P0234 can be one of several issues but both instances were pretty much the same situation - cruising normally, first time 45 mph and the second time around 70 mph. Is there any check to see if this time it is indeed the Turbocharger Wastegate Solenoid? Car is 2008 HHR SS, automatic, with just under 95K miles. Cam actuator solenoids (both intake and exhaust) were replaced at 85K miles 3 years ago.

This event occurred on the turnpike, cruise set to 75 mph. Started coming up on slower traffic and with traffic in the inner lane approaching I backed off a bit to let them go by. They were not closing quickly so I pulled out to pass giving it just a little gas when the Check Engine light came on. Got around my traffic and backed down to 75 again. Boost was steady at about 2-3psi which (I think) is about normal for steady driving condition. No issues with boost lag (floored it once for a couple of seconds to check), no misfire, etc. Stopped at a rest stop for about 20 minutes but light didn't reset. Had it checked at an Autozone, got the report about Turbocharger Wastegate Solenoid and they cleared the code. Drove 375 miles home without any issues. Fluke or do I need to have this solenoid replaced as well?

Thanks.
FWIW, I'm not a turbo guy so much so bear with me.

 

How does a P0234 relate to cam actuators when the code is for the turbo ?
https://www.obd-codes.com/p0234

 

Got me but they seemed to fix the first issue.

 

Exactly words I was about to type.

My guess is that you moved something around whilst doing the work, question is why did you replace them?

The MAF specifically.

 

I didn't move anything. "...they seemed to fix the first issue..." and that was 3 years ago.

So, I'll ask again, can the wastegate solenoid be checked or should I just have it replaced?

 

How did you get to the VVT valves without unplugging the MAF or touching any wires? They have absolutely nothing to do with the code

You could pay someone to throw parts at it or you could do some simple troubleshooting and get to the real problem. More likely the MAF or the MAP sensors. Especially if you have the GMTU.

You need someone who has a computer scantool or knows how to jump the correct points with test wires.

The testing is the same for P0299 underboost

 

I give up. I don't mean to be rude but I keep getting asked what I moved or what I did. I didn't move anything as I said. All I really want to know is is there a test for the wastegate. I admit I'm not as smart on these as many on here - might take other people's lack of knowledge and terminology (like MAF, MAP, GMTU, Et al) into consideration.

I'll work it out on my own.

Thanks everyone...

 

You can't see the attachment to my post? I only asked once and then explained why.

See ya.