P2076 code meaning
Intake Manifold Tuning (IMT) Valve Position Sensor/Switch Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 1)
Powertrain system Generic code P20xx codes Check engine light
What P2076 means
The sensor signal is electrically within its limits, but it does not behave plausibly. GM defines this through the learn routine of the actuator in the 2015 and 2018 tables: if the reported position stays between 5 % and 35 % for 5 s or more while learning, or the learn routine starts ten or more times within a single key cycle, P2076 is stored as Type B after supply voltage of at least 11 V and one second of running. In GM's 2023 and 2024 tables the valve reports its position digitally over SENT, and P2076 flags a faulty or invalid data value from that interface. Hard-to-move flaps, a worn sensor track or a wrong actuator can cause it. It is less specific than P2077/P2078, which detect plain shorts and opens.
P2076 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P2076
- Check engine light after two trips (GM Type B)
- Actuator audibly cycling at key-on
- Slight power loss in parts of the rev range
Common causes of P2076
- Most likelyFlap binding so that the actuator cannot complete its learn sweep
- PossibleWorn potentiometer track giving jumpy readings
- PossibleDigital (SENT) position message corrupted by wiring or actuator electronics
- Less likelyIncorrect or non-matching replacement actuator
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Imt position sensor
What each part of P2076 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 0 | Area: fuel and air metering and auxiliary emission controls. |
| 76 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2076 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 P2076
What does P2076 mean?
P2076 means "Intake Manifold Tuning (IMT) Valve Position Sensor/Switch Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 1)". The sensor signal is electrically within its limits, but it does not behave plausibly. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2076?
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 P2076 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2076 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 P2076 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P2076 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.