1. What is P2015 in Ford F-150?

The P2015 OBD-II code stands for Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) Circuit/Open (Bank 1). For the Ford F-150 (2018-2023)—America’s best-selling pickup—this code targets the IMRC system in the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine (standard in XLT, Lariat, and Raptor trims).

The IMRC system uses solenoids and vacuum-actuated flaps to adjust intake manifold runner length—short runners boost high-RPM power (critical for towing, max 14,000 lbs for 3.5L 4x4s), while long runners improve low-RPM torque. P2015 triggers when the F-150’s PCM (Powertrain Control Module) detects an open circuit in the IMRC system—signaling a faulty solenoid, broken wiring, or corroded connectors.

F-150 Specific Note: This code is widespread in 2019-2022 F-150 3.5L EcoBoost models, per Ford Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 21-1345. The IMRC solenoid (mounted on the intake manifold) is prone to corrosion from road salt and oil leaks—common in trims used for towing or off-roading.

2. Common Causes of P2015 in 2018-2023 F-150

P2015 in F-150 3.5L EcoBoost models stems from IMRC system electrical or mechanical issues—below are real-world cases diagnosed with the ICARZONE UR1000:

• Faulty IMRC Solenoid (2020 F-150 Lariat 3.5L): An Lariat owner with 72,000 miles reported reduced highway power. The UR1000’s IMRC Solenoid Voltage Test showed 0V (normal: 11.5–12.5V). The solenoid’s internal coil failed (per TSB 21-1345)—replacing it with OEM #BL3Z-9J559-A fixed P2015.
• Corroded IMRC Wiring (2019 F-150 XLT 3.5L): An XLT owner’s P2015 appeared after winter. The UR1000’s Circuit Continuity Test found 22Ω resistance (normal: <0.5Ω) in the solenoid harness. Road salt corroded the connector pins—cleaning with electrical contact cleaner (#CRC 05110) and applying dielectric grease resolved the issue.
• Broken IMRC Vacuum Line (2018 F-150 Raptor 3.5L): A Raptor owner’s P2015 was intermittent. The UR1000’s IMRC Vacuum Test showed 5 inHg (normal: 18–22 inHg). Off-road debris cracked the vacuum line—replacing it with OEM #BL3Z-6A666-A restored proper flap operation.
• Failed PCM Driver Circuit (2021 F-150 King Ranch 3.5L): A King Ranch owner’s P2015 persisted after solenoid replacement. The UR1000’s PCM Output Test confirmed the IMRC driver circuit was non-functional. Updating the PCM firmware (v2.4.0) via UR1000 fixed the circuit logic (addressed in TSB 22-004).

3. Key Symptoms of P2015 in F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

P2015 symptoms in the F-150 focus on power and performance—watch for these signs that affect driving comfort and towing capability:

4. F-150 Trims/Engines Prone to P2015

Ford service data highlights these 2018-2023 F-150 configurations with the highest P2015 occurrence rates (all 3.5L EcoBoost V6):

5. Diagnose P2015 with ICARZONE UR1000

Diagnose P2015 in your F-150 3.5L EcoBoost accurately with the UR1000’s Ford-specific IMRC tools. Follow these steps (engine off, key in "ON" position):

Case Example: A 2019 F-150 XLT failed Step 2 (9.8V) and Step 3 (18Ω). The UR1000’s Component Location Tool guided solenoid access (remove engine cover, 4 plastic clips). Cleaning the harness and replacing the solenoid fixed P2015—verified by test drive (restored highway passing power).

6. How to Fix P2015 in F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

Resolve P2015 in your F-150 with these UR1000-verified solutions—tailored to the 3.5L EcoBoost’s IMRC system:

1. Replace Faulty IMRC Solenoid (Most Common Fix for TSB 21-1345)

1. Confirm solenoid failure via UR1000’s Step 2. Disconnect the negative battery terminal for safety.
2. Locate the Bank 1 IMRC solenoid: Mounted on the driver-side intake manifold (2018-2020 F-150) or passenger-side (2021-2023 F-150). Remove the engine cover (4 plastic clips) for access.
3. Disconnect the solenoid’s electrical connector (press the tab) and the vacuum line (pull gently—use a flathead screwdriver to release the clip if stuck).
4. Remove the solenoid’s mounting bolt (8mm socket) and pull the old unit free.
5. Install an OEM IMRC solenoid:
   • 2018-2020 F-150: #BL3Z-9J559-A
   • 2021-2023 F-150: #BL3Z-9J559-B (updated corrosion-resistant design)
6. Reinstall the bolt (torque to 72 in-lbs), reconnect the vacuum line and electrical connector, and reattach the battery. Clear P2015 with UR1000 and test drive—verify high-RPM power.

2. Repair Corroded IMRC Wiring

1. Confirm corrosion via UR1000’s Step 3. Locate the IMRC harness (runs from solenoid to PCM, along the intake manifold).
2. Disconnect the solenoid connector and PCM connector (label connectors to avoid mix-ups). Spray electrical contact cleaner (#CRC 05110) into both ends.
3. Use a small brush to scrub green/white corrosion from the pins—avoid metal tools (prevents pin damage).
4. Dry connectors with compressed air (low pressure). Apply dielectric grease (#Permatex 81150) to pins to prevent future corrosion.
5. Reconnect the harness, retest continuity with UR1000, and clear P2015. Secure loose harness sections to the intake manifold with zip ties (avoids vibration damage).

3. Fix Broken IMRC Vacuum Line

1. Confirm vacuum leak via UR1000’s Step 4. Trace the IMRC vacuum line from the solenoid to the vacuum reservoir (near the brake booster).
2. Cut out the damaged section of line (add 1 inch on each side of the crack).
3. Use a vacuum line splice kit (#Dorman 800-080) to connect the new line segment—ensure tight fits to prevent leaks.
4. For full replacement, install an OEM vacuum line:
   • 2018-2023 F-150: #BL3Z-6A666-A
5. Retest vacuum pressure with UR1000 (should read 18–22 inHg). Clear P2015 and test drive—verify smooth acceleration.

7. P2015 Repair Costs & Maintenance Tips

P2015 repair costs for the F-150 3.5L EcoBoost vary by cause. Use this table to budget:

Maintenance Tips for F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Owners

• XLT/Lariat (towing users): Replace the IMRC solenoid every 80,000 miles (preventive) — use OEM #BL3Z-9J559-B to avoid TSB 21-1345 corrosion.
• Inspect the IMRC harness during oil changes—look for oil leaks (common from valve covers) that can damage wiring. Clean leaks immediately with degreaser.
• Raptor owners: Check the IMRC vacuum line after off-roading—secure loose sections with zip ties to prevent debris damage.
• Cold climate users: Clean the IMRC solenoid connector every 6 months—remove road salt with contact cleaner and reapply dielectric grease.
• Perform the UR1000’s IMRC Health Check every 15,000 miles — monitor voltage and vacuum to catch issues before P2015 triggers.

8. F-150-Specific FAQs