Code P0299

2016 CHEVROLET CRUZE
41,000 MILES • 1.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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MOLLY2803
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  • 1 POST
Hi, my check engine light came on recently, so I have an appointment at my car dealer (where I bought the car) to have it looked at. I stopped last night at an auto retailer who diagnosed the P0299 code. I have a two-hour commute each day. Am I safe to drive the car with this code? The car seems okay. The only thing I noticed (even before the light came on) is that when merging into expressway traffic, acceleration seems sluggish.
My last visit at the dealer was to have a simple oil change, which they admitted they caused damage to my oil pan, so had to replace it at their expense ($500.00+). Could they have caused something with this P0299 code now appearing three weeks later?
Jul 31, 2019 at 7:49 AM
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KASEKENNY
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  • 18,907 POSTS
Hi Molly,

This code is saying that the turbo is not achieving the proper level of boost. The most common cause of this is a leak in the charged air system. Meaning the part after the turbo. So the air has been "turbo charged" and is making its way through the air ducts to the engine but it has a leak before it gets there and the air is escaping.

Think of it like you are trying to use a straw to drink something but it has a crack in it. You have to suck a lot harder to get the fluid up the straw because you are loosing suction through the crack. This is what is happening but the turbo cannot spin fast enough to over come the leak.

If there is no leak then it is possible that the turbo itself is the issue. However, a leak is more likely.

It is safe to drive like this but clearly I would not miss your appointment. This will definitely cause a sluggish engine because again, the boost from the turbo is what gives you the pep when accelerating.

Let me know if you have other questions. Thanks
Jul 31, 2019 at 2:18 PM