AutoCodesSaturn – P2279 Saturn

P2279 Saturn Code - Intake Air Duct Air Leak

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the volume of air consumed at idle speed. Common causes include Check for intake leaks, Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, Faulty Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P2279 Saturn indicates Intake Air Duct Air Leak.
Common causes
Common causes include Check for intake leaks, Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, Faulty Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code Popularity 474
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Dec 22, 2020
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Code P2279 Saturn Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the volume of air consumed at idle speed. The ECM controls the Idle Air Control (IAC) motor in order to regulate the air flow through the throttle body. The amount of air flowing through the throttle body will normally determine the engine speed. If there is an Intake Air (IA) leak or a malfunction in the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system excess air can enter the intake manifold affecting engine speed. The ECM uses sensor input in order to determine an estimated volume of air that is used during normal idle conditions. If there is any excess air, the estimated volume of air will be more than the expected value and Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P2279 sets.
OBDII Code P2279 Saturn - Intake Air Duct Air Leak - AutoCodes.com
P2279 Saturn Code - Intake Air Duct Air Leak

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2279 Saturn?

  • Check for intake leaks
  • Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor
  • Faulty Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system

How to Fix the DTC P2279 Saturn?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P2279 Saturn code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P2279 Saturn Code

1. What does the OBDII code P2279 mean on a Saturn?

P2279 indicates an intake air system leak, meaning unmetered air is entering the engine, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P2279 on a Saturn?

Symptoms include rough idling, decreased engine performance, stalling, poor fuel economy, and the Check Engine Light turning on.

3. What causes the P2279 code on a Saturn?

Common causes include a cracked or damaged intake air duct, loose or disconnected vacuum hoses, a faulty intake manifold gasket, or a damaged throttle body gasket.

4. Can driving with the P2279 code damage my Saturn’s engine?

Driving with this code for an extended period can lead to poor engine performance and potential long-term engine damage due to an improper air-fuel mixture.

5. How do I diagnose the P2279 code on my Saturn?

Inspect the intake air duct, vacuum hoses, and gaskets for cracks or leaks. You may also use a smoke test to identify leaks in the intake system.

6. How do I fix the P2279 code on a Saturn?

Repairs may include replacing a damaged intake air duct, tightening or replacing loose vacuum hoses, or replacing leaking gaskets.

7. Can a dirty mass airflow sensor cause the P2279 code on a Saturn?

While not a direct cause, a dirty or malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can contribute to air-fuel mixture issues and should be inspected as part of the diagnostic process.

8. How much does it cost to repair the P2279 code on a Saturn?

Repair costs vary depending on the issue but can range from $50 to $300 for parts and labor, depending on whether a simple hose repair or gasket replacement is needed.

9. Can a loose air filter cause the P2279 code on a Saturn?

A loose or improperly installed air filter can allow unmetered air to enter the engine, potentially triggering this code.

10. Will clearing the P2279 code fix the problem on my Saturn?

Clearing the code will reset the Check Engine Light, but the underlying issue must be resolved to prevent the code from returning.

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