P0299 on Ford: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost
Quick Answer
Safe to drive (short-term)
P0299 on a Ford means the turbocharger is not producing enough boost pressure to meet the ECU's target value during normal driving. The engine will feel noticeably less powerful, especially under acceleration. Common causes include boost leaks in the charge piping, a stuck-open wastegate, or a worn turbocharger with failing bearings.
- Severity
- Moderate · Fuel System
- Typical repair cost, all makes
- €20-€2300
Connect a standard OBD2 adapter (Bluetooth LE on iPhone) to your Ford and Skanyx tells you what P0299 means on that engine, whether it is safe to keep driving, and what the fix should cost. Free on iPhone and Android.
Get Skanyx freeWhat does P0299 mean on a Ford?
The Quick Answer above is the generic definition. What follows is the model-specific detail for the Ford models that log P0299.
Ford Focus
2010-2024
The 1.0 EcoBoost is known for turbo failures at higher mileages due to coolant feed line issues causing oil coking. P0299 on EcoBoost engines can be the first sign of turbo bearing wear. The 1.5 and 2.0 EcoBoost in ST/RS models can develop intercooler leaks.
What causes P0299 on a Ford?
Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P0299 page, these are the patterns noted for Ford models:
Turbo bearing wear on 1.0 EcoBoost from coolant line issues
: Ford Focus
Intercooler pipe leaks on 1.5/2.0 EcoBoost ST models
: Ford Focus
How to diagnose P0299 on a Ford with OBD2
- Use a scan tool to monitor actual boost pressure versus target boost. If actual pressure is consistently 0.3+ bar below target under load, the underboost is confirmed
- Check the air filter first. A severely clogged filter restricts airflow and limits boost. Replace if dirty
- Perform a boost leak test by pressurising the intake system with compressed air (0.5-1 bar) and listening/feeling for leaks at intercooler pipes, hose connections, and the intercooler itself
- Inspect the wastegate by checking if the actuator rod moves freely. Disconnect the vacuum/pressure line and verify the wastegate closes fully. A stuck-open wastegate allows exhaust to bypass the turbo
- Check the turbo for shaft play by removing the intake pipe and wiggling the compressor wheel. More than 1 mm of radial play indicates worn bearings
- If no boost leaks or turbo wear found, check for exhaust restrictions (blocked DPF or catalytic converter) using a backpressure test
How much does P0299 cost to fix on a Ford? (EUR)
Estimated repair costs for P0299 in EUR, compiled across makes. Ford costs typically sit in the middle of each range.
| Repair | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Total Estimate | DIY Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fix boost leak (tighten clamps, replace hose) | €10–€80 | €30–€120 | €40–€200 | Moderate |
| Replace air filter | €10–€30 | €10–€20 | €20–€50 | Easy |
| Replace boost control solenoid | €20–€80 | €30–€90 | €50–€170 | Easy |
| Replace or repair wastegate actuator | €60–€250 | €80–€250 | €140–€500 | Professional |
| Replace turbocharger | €400–€1500 | €300–€800 | €700–€2300 | Professional |
Prices estimated as of October 2026. Costs vary by region, vehicle, and shop.
Codes related to P0299
These codes are often seen alongside P0299 or point to related issues, on any make:
Looking for the full P0299 reference (all makes, full diagnosis flow, complete repair cost matrix)? See the main P0299 guide