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P201C code meaning

Intake Manifold Runner Control Actuator Supply Voltage Low (Bank 2)

Powertrain system Generic code P20xx codes Check engine light

What P201C means

P201C reports that the electric flap actuator of bank 2 is not getting enough supply voltage. It only makes sense on V engines that give each bank its own powered actuator. No manufacturer documents P201C publicly. The bank 1 counterpart P201B is described by GM for its DC-motor swirl drive: the driver supply below 6 V while the relay feed is above 11 V, in 240 of 300 samples, Type B. That logic separates a weak battery, which would also pull the relay feed down, from a loss on the branch to the actuator. CARB treats such actuators as comprehensive output components and requires circuit faults to be found continuously. In practice the search starts at the fuse and supply pin of the bank 2 actuator. If both banks report a supply fault at once, look for a shared fuse or relay first.

P201C at a glance

  • Check engine lightYes, usually on
  • Emissions testCan fail
  • Limp modeNot expected
  • Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
  • Typical labor0.3 to 3 hours
  • Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner

Symptoms of P201C

  • Malfunction indicator lamp on
  • Bank 2 flaps stop working

Common causes of P201C

  • Most likelyFuse or relay feeding the bank 2 actuator failed
  • PossibleDamaged supply wire or connector at the bank 2 actuator
  • Less likelyActuator electronics loading the supply down

Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.

Parts involved

Imrc actuatorImrc supply relay

What each part of P201C means

PPowertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission.
2Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make.
0Area: fuel and air metering and auxiliary emission controls.
1CThe exact fault in that area.

What to do next

  • Note P201C and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
  • Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
  • Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
  • Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.

Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.

Questions about P201C

What does P201C mean?

P201C means "Intake Manifold Runner Control Actuator Supply Voltage Low (Bank 2)". P201C reports that the electric flap actuator of bank 2 is not getting enough supply voltage. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.

Is it safe to drive with P201C?

Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.

Will P201C fail an emissions test?

Yes, it can. P201C is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.

How hard is P201C to fix?

Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 3 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.

Will P201C clear itself after the repair?

Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.

Look up another code

Technical content: OBDex open OBD-II database (public domain, CC0), checked 3 Nov 2026, edited for US drivers by the VinGear team.
Technical sources for P201C