P2012 Code: IMRC Circuit Low (Bank 2)

Check Engine Light on? If you scan your V6 or V8 engine and see P2012: Intake Manifold Runner Control Circuit Low Bank 2, you are dealing with a short circuit on the second bank of your engine. It sounds serious, but it is often just a failed solenoid or a pinched wire.

What Does P2012 Mean?

P2012 stands for "Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) Circuit Low Bank 2."

This code triggers when the ECU detects that the signal voltage for the Bank 2 solenoid has dropped below the expected threshold. In simpler terms, the electricity is taking a shortcut to the ground instead of flowing through the solenoid properly.

⚡ Don't Confuse Your Banks!

P2012 is specific to Bank 2. Make sure you are troubleshooting the correct side of the engine:

Have the same code on Bank 1? You are looking for Code P2009 (Circuit Low Bank 1).
Is the circuit "Open" instead of "Low"? That means the wire is cut, not shorted. Check out Code P2011 (Circuit Open Bank 2).

Why is the Circuit "Low"?

A "Circuit Low" error is almost always caused by one of two things:

Solenoid Internal Short: The solenoid that moves the flaps is an electromagnet. Over time, the internal insulation can melt, causing the copper windings to touch each other. This lowers the electrical resistance, pulling the signal voltage down to near zero.
Wiring Short to Ground: The wire carrying the signal to the Bank 2 solenoid might be rubbing against a metal bracket on the engine. If the insulation wears off, the wire touches the metal engine block (Ground), causing the voltage to drop instantly.

How to Isolate the Short with iCarsoft CR Ultra P

You need to find out if the short is in the Part or the Wiring. The iCarsoft CR Ultra P allows you to do this without a multimeter.

The "Unplug & Scan" Strategy

Step 1: Connect the scanner. Go to Live Data > IMRC Monitor Bank 2. Observe that the status is likely "Low."
Step 2: Turn the engine off, open the hood, and unplug the connector for the Bank 2 IMRC Solenoid.
Step 3: Turn the key back to ON (do not start) and check the scanner.
- Did the code change to P2011 (Open)? This is good news! It means your wiring is fine (because the computer successfully detected the disconnection). The short was inside the solenoid. Replace the Bank 2 Solenoid.
- Did the code stay P2012 (Low)? This is bad news. It means the wire is shorted to ground somewhere in the harness before it reaches the plug. You need to trace the wiring.

Diagnose Electrical Faults Safely

Using the Live Data on the iCarsoft CR Ultra P lets you "see" electricity. Verify whether you need a $50 solenoid or a wiring repair in minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Bank 2 Solenoid located?

It is typically mounted on the intake manifold on the side of the engine opposite Cylinder #1. Follow the vacuum lines from the intake runner actuators; they will lead you directly to the solenoid control valve.

Can I swap Bank 1 and Bank 2 solenoids to test?

Yes! This is a great trick. If your engine has identical solenoids for both banks, swap them. If the code moves from P2012 (Bank 2) to P2009 (Bank 1), you have confirmed 100% that the solenoid is the problem.

Will P2012 cause a failed emissions test?

Yes. P2012 turns on the Check Engine Light (MIL). You cannot pass an OBD-II emissions inspection with an active MIL or pending IMRC codes.

Stop the short circuit before it causes damage.

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