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DTC codes / Volkswagen codes / P1513

P1513 · VolkswagenIntake Manifold Changeover Valve 2 Circuit Short To B+

P1513 on Volkswagen vehicles indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a short to battery voltage on the control circuit for the intake manifold changeover valve 2. This valve is part of the variable intake manifold system, and the ECM expects the circuit to be pulled low when activating the valve, but it sees constant high voltage instead.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeVolkswagen specific
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaVehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illuminated check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms
  • Reduced engine performance at higher RPMs due to the intake manifold not changing over
  • Slightly rough idle or hesitation during acceleration in some cases
  • Poor fuel economy if the valve remains stuck in one position
  • In rare cases, the engine may enter limp mode with reduced power

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Damaged or chafed wiring in the changeover valve 2 circuit shorting to a power source
  2. Failed intake manifold changeover valve 2 (internal short to battery voltage)
  3. Corroded or loose electrical connector at the valve or ECM
  4. Faulty ECM driver for the changeover valve circuit (less common)
  5. Aftermarket accessories or improper wiring repairs tapping into the circuit
  6. Moisture intrusion into the connector or wiring harness causing a short

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Scan all modules and record freeze-frame data to confirm P1513 is the only relevant fault
  2. Visually inspect the changeover valve 2 connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, or signs of shorting
  3. Disconnect the valve and check for battery voltage on the control wire with the key on; if present, trace the harness for a short to power
  4. Measure resistance of the changeover valve 2 solenoid and compare to specification
  5. Perform a wiggle test on the harness while monitoring the circuit with a multimeter or scan tool
  6. If the wiring and valve test good, check the ECM connector for corrosion and verify the control circuit integrity
  7. Replace the faulty changeover valve or repair the shorted wiring as needed, then clear codes and verify the repair

Don't overlook the changeover valve connector

  • A common cause of P1513 is a chafed wire in the intake manifold area that shorts to the positive battery cable or another power wire, often due to engine vibration or previous repairs.
  • The changeover valve 2 is often the same part as valve 1 on some engines, so swapping them can help confirm a faulty valve, but be aware that a shorted valve can damage the ECM driver if not fixed promptly.
  • This code can be set intermittently by water intrusion into the connector after engine washing or driving through deep water, so check for moisture and corrosion before replacing parts.
  • A faulty ECM is rarely the root cause, but a shorted valve solenoid can overheat and damage the ECM output driver, so always test the valve before installing a new ECM.
  • Some Volkswagen models use a vacuum-operated changeover valve; a leaking vacuum line can cause performance issues but will not set P1513, which is strictly an electrical circuit fault.

Can I keep driving with P1513?

You can usually continue driving with P1513, but avoid aggressive acceleration and high engine speeds because the intake manifold may not optimize airflow, which can reduce performance and fuel economy. If the engine enters limp mode or you notice severe power loss, have the vehicle checked promptly.

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 Volkswagen vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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