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DTC codes / Chrysler codes / P1288

P1288 · ChryslerIntake Manifold Short Runner Solenoid Circuit Open Or Shorted

P1288 on Chrysler vehicles means the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an open or shorted circuit in the intake manifold short runner solenoid, which controls a flap inside the intake manifold to change the effective runner length for better low-end torque and high-rpm power. The PCM commands the solenoid on or off and monitors the circuit for expected voltage or current; when the feedback falls outside the expected range, it stores this code and may disable the short runner function.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeChrysler specific
SeverityLow
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaFuel and air metering (injector circuits)

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms.
  • A slight loss of low-end torque or hesitation during light acceleration, especially when the engine is cold.
  • Rough or uneven idle quality that may come and go with engine temperature.
  • Reduced fuel economy during city driving because the manifold stays in the long-runner position.
  • An audible rattle or clicking from the intake manifold area if the solenoid or flap linkage is worn.
  • In rare cases, a stumble or surge at highway speeds when the PCM tries to switch runner length under load.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Broken, chafed, or disconnected wires in the short runner solenoid circuit, especially near the intake manifold where heat and vibration are high.
  2. Failed short runner solenoid coil (open or shorted winding) due to heat cycling and age.
  3. Corroded or loose electrical connector pins at the solenoid or PCM harness.
  4. Sticking or binding short runner flap linkage that overloads the solenoid and causes a circuit fault.
  5. Internal PCM driver failure, though this is less common than wiring or solenoid problems.
  6. Rodent damage to the harness loom running along the intake manifold.
  7. Aftermarket intake or engine work that left the solenoid unplugged or the harness pinched.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Verify the code with a scan tool and check for any related pending or stored codes in the PCM.
  2. Inspect the short runner solenoid connector and the harness for chafing, corrosion, or loose pins, repairing as needed.
  3. Measure the solenoid coil resistance with a multimeter and compare it to the Chrysler service specification for your engine.
  4. Check for battery voltage at the solenoid connector with the key on and the PCM commanding the solenoid on, using a scan tool or jumper wire as directed by the service information.
  5. Test the control circuit from the PCM to the solenoid for continuity and short-to-ground, repairing any damaged wire.
  6. Command the solenoid on and off with the scan tool and listen for the flap actuator to move, confirming the mechanical linkage is free.
  7. If the circuit and solenoid test good but the code returns, follow the Chrysler diagnostic flow chart for PCM driver testing before replacing the PCM.

Short runner solenoid faults you might overlook

  • A stuck-open thermostat or low coolant level can cause the PCM to keep the short runner solenoid off, setting P1288 even though the solenoid circuit itself is fine.
  • The short runner solenoid shares a ground or power feed with other intake manifold components on some Chrysler engines, so a fault in a neighbouring circuit can trigger this code.
  • Technicians often replace the solenoid only to find the real problem is a brittle wire inside the loom that only breaks when the engine bay is hot.
  • P1288 does not always mean the solenoid is dead; a binding flap linkage can draw excessive current and set the code without any electrical open or short.
  • On some Chrysler 3.5L and 4.0L engines, the short runner solenoid is buried under the intake plenum, so a careful visual inspection of the connector requires partial disassembly.

Can I keep driving with P1288?

You can usually keep driving with P1288 because the engine will default to the long-runner position and remain driveable, but avoid heavy throttle or towing until the fault is repaired to prevent poor performance or further intake damage. If the check engine light flashes or you notice severe misfiring, stop driving and have the vehicle towed.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for Chrysler vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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