6.7 Cummins VGT Actuator Failure: Lost Communication, Symptoms and Fixes

The 6.7 Cummins uses a variable geometry turbo, and the electronic actuator bolted to it moves the vanes that control boost and run the exhaust brake. When that actuator fails, the truck can go from strong to useless on the next hill.

Here is the number one way to tell it is the actuator, what else can cause the same symptoms, and the fixes we recommend.

The #1 Sign: Lost Communication With the Actuator

The biggest giveaway we see in the shop is a lost communication code with the turbo actuator, usually U010C. The actuator has its own electronics, and when they fail the truck's computer can no longer talk to it at all. You will usually get a check engine light, low power or limp mode, and a dead exhaust brake at the same time.

Before you buy an actuator, rule out the wiring. Check the actuator connector for corrosion, a loose pin or a chafed wire. A damaged actuator pigtail (2013 to 2022) or actuator harness (2007.5 to 2012) can set the same code. If the wiring is good and the code keeps coming back, the actuator is done.

What the VGT Actuator Does

Inside the turbo, a ring of vanes opens and closes to change how exhaust hits the turbine. Closed down, the turbo spools up fast and the exhaust brake builds back pressure. Opened up, it flows for top end power. The actuator is the motor and electronics that move those vanes constantly while you drive, bolted to one of the hottest parts of the engine. Heat, vibration and soot are why factory actuators fail.

Other Symptoms of a Failing VGT Actuator

• Low boost or no boost, especially under load
• Exhaust brake weak or not working
• Overboost spikes or surging boost
• Limp mode with reduced power
• Boost or actuator related codes, such as P0299 for underboost or P2563 for turbo boost control position
• Actuator not doing its normal sweep at key on

Actuator or Turbo?

The same symptoms can come from sticking vanes inside the turbo. Soot buildup is common on trucks that idle a lot or tow light. A few checks:

• A lost communication code points at the actuator or its wiring, not the turbo.
• With the engine off and cool, have a shop command the actuator with a scan tool and watch it move. If it moves smoothly through its range, the vanes are probably free.
• If the actuator strains, stalls or the arm will not move, the vanes may be stuck and the turbo needs service or replacement.
• Look for boost leaks too. A split hose or coupler looks just like a weak actuator.

Fix 1: ITI Billet VGT Actuator

The ITI Upgraded Billet VGT Turbo Actuator (67-075-24-ACT) from Industrial Turbo International is built to fix the failure points in the factory electronic actuator.

• Billet housing and a heavy duty brushless motor for faster, more accurate vane control under high drive pressure
• AutoSynq self calibrating software. No dealer programming and no relearn procedure.
• Full 0 to 100 percent vane sweep during setup that checks vane movement and helps clear light soot
• Retains factory coolant flow to the actuator
• True drop in with all hardware and gaskets included
• Works on stock, tuned, towing and upgraded turbo trucks
• Fits 2007.5 to 2024 Ram 2500 and 3500, including cab and chassis
• One year limited warranty

Demand on these is high, so check the listing for current lead time before you plan the job.

Fix 2: A Turbo That Comes With a New Actuator

If the vanes are seized, the turbo is worn, or you want more power anyway, replace the turbo with one that already has a new actuator on it. These all include one:

• Fleece Cheetah drop in turbos, new actuator with no calibration programming: 2007.5 to 2012, 2013 to 2018, 2019 to 2022
• Genuine Holset stock replacement with actuator, no calibration needed: 2007.5 to 2012 new or reman, 2013 to 2018 new or reman
• Industrial Injection reman turbo with actuator, 2007.5 to 2012
• BD Diesel reman HE351 with calibrated actuator, 2007.5 to 2012

Going with the aFe BladeRunner GT turbo for 2007 to 2018? It ships without an actuator, so pair it with the ITI. Need the install parts too? Fleece makes VGT install kits for 2007.5 to 2018 and 2019 to 2024.

Browse all turbos for 2007 to 2018 and 2019 and newer trucks.

Keep It Alive

• Use the exhaust brake. Regularly sweeping the vanes helps keep soot from building up.
• Avoid long idle periods when you can.
• Fix boost leaks right away so the actuator is not constantly correcting.
• Keep the cooling system healthy, since the actuator relies on coolant flow.

More for the 6.7 Cummins

• Best first mods for a 6.7 Cummins
• Pusher coolant reroute for 2013 to 2018 (off road only)
• All 6.7 Cummins 2007 to 2018 parts • 2019 and newer

FAQ

What is the most common sign of a bad VGT actuator on a 6.7 Cummins?

A lost communication code with the turbo actuator, usually U010C. The actuator electronics fail and the truck can no longer talk to it. Check the connector and pigtail first; if the wiring is good, the actuator is bad.

Does the ITI billet actuator need to be programmed?

No. ITI's AutoSynq software calibrates the actuator to the turbo with a full vane sweep at install, with no dealer programming or relearn procedure.

What years does the ITI VGT actuator fit?

2007.5 to 2024 Ram 2500 and 3500 with the 6.7 Cummins, including cab and chassis trucks.

Do Fleece Cheetah turbos come with an actuator?

Yes. Fleece Cheetah turbos for the 6.7 Cummins come with a new actuator and need no actuator calibration programming.

How do I know if it is the actuator or the turbo?

A lost communication code points to the actuator or its wiring. Otherwise, have the actuator commanded with a scan tool with the engine off. If it moves smoothly, the vanes are likely free. If it strains or will not move, the vanes may be stuck and the turbo needs service.

Can a bad VGT actuator stop the exhaust brake from working?

Yes. The exhaust brake on the 6.7 Cummins works by closing the turbo vanes, so a failed actuator often means a weak or dead exhaust brake.

Not sure what fits your truck? Send us your VIN or call 865 640 2097 and we will help you pick the right part.

Powerhouse Diesel, Knoxville, TN. Diesel repair and performance parts, shipped nationwide. About us • Meet the team • Wholesale