P1068 on 2015-2016 Ram ProMaster City: Cylinder 2 Oil Solenoid Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2015-2016 Ram PROMASTER CITY

The 2015-2016 Ram ProMaster City uses the 2.4L Tigershark engine featuring Fiat-Chrysler's MultiAir 2 technology. This system is unique because it controls the intake valves with electro-hydraulic actuators instead of a conventional intake camshaft. These actuators and their solenoids are housed in a single unit often called the 'MultiAir brick'. This design is known to be highly sensitive to engine oil level, quality, and viscosity, and a failure of one internal solenoid often necessitates replacing the entire expensive assembly. This same engine and system are used in many other FCA vehicles, which share this common failure point.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light (MIL) is on
• Rough or unstable idle, sometimes described as a 'dead cylinder'.
• Engine hesitation or stumbling during acceleration
• Loss of engine power
• Poor fuel economy
• Engine misfires, potentially triggering a P0302 code
• Vehicle may enter 'limp mode' with severely restricted power.

Most Likely Causes

1. Low, Contaminated, or Incorrect Engine Oil 🔴 High Probability The MultiAir system is hydraulic and extremely sensitive to oil level, contamination, and viscosity. The manufacturer specifies full synthetic SAE 0W-20 oil meeting the MS-6395 standard. Using thicker, conventional, or degraded oil is a primary cause of this fault.
   How to confirm: Check the engine oil dipstick for proper level and inspect the oil's condition. Verify the oil type used matches the manufacturer's specification (SAE 0W-20). An oil change is the cheapest and most important first diagnostic step.
   Typical fix: Perform an engine oil and filter change with the correct OEM-specified oil and a quality filter. Reset the code and see if it returns.
   Est. part cost: $50-$90
2. Failing MultiAir Actuator Assembly ('Brick') 🔴 High Probability The oil supply solenoids are integrated into this single assembly and are not sold separately. It is a common failure point on the 2.4L MultiAir engine across multiple vehicle platforms.
   How to confirm: After confirming correct oil and ruling out wiring issues and software updates, the diagnosis points to the actuator. A professional bidirectional scan tool can actuate the solenoid to test its function directly; a weak or non-existent click indicates failure. 🎬 See how to test the MultiAir actuator solenoid yourself.
   Typical fix: Replace the entire MultiAir actuator assembly and the required valve cover gaskets. This is a complex and expensive repair. 🎬 Watch: Step-by-step guide to installing a new MultiAir brick.
   Est. part cost: $500-$1500
3. Outdated Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Engine Control Module (ECM) Manufacturer TSB #18-063-17 REV. A explicitly lists P1068 and other related codes as being potentially resolved by a PCM software update. The update adjusts the diagnostic sensitivity for the solenoid's performance, as the original calibration was often too strict.
   How to confirm: A Ram dealership or a properly equipped independent shop can check the current software version against the latest available version using your vehicle's VIN and a wiTECH scan tool.
   Typical fix: Reprogram the PCM with the latest software. This must be done before replacing hardware.
   Est. part cost: $100-$250

Rare But Worth Checking

• Wiring Harness or Connector Issue: Damage or corrosion on the wiring leading to the MultiAir actuator can cause an electrical fault. This is worth checking before replacing the expensive actuator assembly. Water intrusion into electrical components is a noted, though uncommon, issue on ProMaster vans.
• Low Engine Oil Pressure: A failing oil pump or other mechanical issue causing system-wide low oil pressure can starve the MultiAir system and trigger this code. This would likely be accompanied by other oil-pressure-related warnings or codes.
• Incorrect Oil Filter: Using a low-quality oil filter or one that does not meet OEM specifications can cause oil pressure deviations that affect the sensitive MultiAir system.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Read all stored DTCs with a quality OBD-II scanner. Note all codes present, especially if other P106x codes are stored.
2. Check the engine oil level and condition. Ensure it is full, clean, and the correct viscosity (full synthetic SAE 0W-20, MS-6395). If in doubt, perform an oil and filter change with OEM-spec products.
3. Contact a Ram dealer with your VIN to check for any open recalls or applicable TSBs, specifically asking about PCM updates related to TSB #18-063-17 REV. A. This is a critical step before replacing parts.
4. Visually inspect the wiring harness and electrical connector at the MultiAir actuator assembly (located on the cylinder head) for any signs of damage, corrosion, oil saturation, or loose connections.
5. If available, use an advanced bidirectional scan tool (like wiTECH) to perform an active test on the Cylinder 2 oil supply solenoid to check for an audible click. Compare the sound to other cylinders.
6. If the oil is correct, the software is up-to-date, and the wiring is intact, the fault is highly likely within the MultiAir actuator assembly itself, requiring replacement.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• MultiAir Actuator Assembly (OEM #05047980AE) — This is the most common cause of failure. The oil supply solenoid for cylinder 2 is integrated into this assembly and cannot be replaced individually. This part number supersedes previous versions 5047980AD, 5047980AC, and 5047980AB.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $1100-$1500
  Aftermarket price range: $500-$800
• Valve Cover Gasket Set (OEM #05047440AC) — This is required for replacing the MultiAir actuator, as the valve cover must be removed to access it.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Fel-Pro, Mahle
  OEM price range: $40-$70
  Aftermarket price range: $25-$50
• Engine Oil and Filter — Crucial for the health of the MultiAir system. Always use the manufacturer-specified SAE 0W-20 oil meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Pennzoil, Mobil 1
  OEM price range: $50-$90
  Aftermarket price range: $40-$70

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P1066 — This is the same 'Switch Off Time Out Of Range' fault, but for Cylinder 1. TSB #18-063-17 REV. A lists them together, indicating a common root cause like software or oil quality.
• P106A — This is the same fault for Cylinder 3. It's common for multiple solenoid faults to appear if the issue is oil-related or a software calibration problem.
• P106C — This is the same fault for Cylinder 4, also listed in the same TSB. Seeing all four P106x codes strongly points to a systemic issue rather than a single failed solenoid.
• P0302 — This code indicates a 'Cylinder 2 Misfire'. A malfunctioning intake valve control on cylinder 2 will directly cause misfires on that cylinder.
• P0128 — Thermostat Rationality. This code is also mentioned in TSB #18-063-17 REV. A, suggesting it can be part of the same software-related group of faults that get corrected with a PCM flash.
• P219A — Bank 1 Air-Fuel Ratio Imbalance. A STAR case document from the manufacturer links intermittent MultiAir actuator malfunction on cold starts to this code, sometimes appearing with the P106x family of codes.
• U1424 — Implausible Engine Torque Signal Received. The PCM may set this code when the engine is not producing the expected amount of power due to the valve lift issue caused by P1068. This code is explicitly mentioned in related TSBs for this fault family.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 18-063-17 REV. A: 'Flash: Powertrain Diagnostic and System Improvements' - Lists P1068 as a code that can be resolved by reprogramming the PCM on 2015-2016 ProMaster City vehicles.
• 18-063-17: The original version of the above TSB, also citing P1068.
• S2018000003: A manufacturer STAR case document noting that P106x codes can appear alongside P219A (Air-Fuel Ratio Imbalance) due to intermittent MultiAir assembly malfunction on cold starts.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• The 2.4L MultiAir engine platform is known for its sensitivity to oil maintenance. Failure to use the correct oil type (SAE 0W-20) or extending oil change intervals is a leading contributor to MultiAir actuator failure.
• A software update was issued by the manufacturer under TSB #18-063-17 REV. A to address this and other related codes, indicating a potential calibration issue from the factory that could falsely trigger the fault.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• MultiAir Solenoid Coil Resistance — expected: 0.2 to 1.0 Ohms (Source) OR 5 to 20 Ohms (Source). Note: Service information contains conflicting specifications; values significantly outside both ranges indicate a problem.. Failure: An open circuit (infinite resistance) or a short circuit (near-zero resistance) confirms a failed solenoid coil.
• Engine Oil Pressure (at operating temperature) — expected: Minimum 4 PSI at hot idle; 25-80 PSI at 3000 RPM.. Failure: Pressure below the minimum specification at idle or pressure that does not rise with RPM can indicate a weak oil pump or clogged passages, starving the MultiAir actuator.
• Oil Pressure Sensor Voltage (Key On, Engine Off) — expected: 0 PSI.. Failure: A reading significantly above 0 PSI with the engine off indicates a faulty oil pressure sensor.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH or equivalent professional scanner: Active Test: VVT Solenoid 1-4 — This is a primary diagnostic step to confirm if the solenoid is electrically functional. The command allows a technician to individually activate each solenoid with the engine off (key on) and listen for an audible click. A weak or absent click from the cylinder 2 solenoid points to a failure in the solenoid or its wiring.
• wiTECH or equivalent professional scanner: Cam and Crank Variation Relearn Procedure — This procedure must be performed after replacing the MultiAir actuator assembly or other major valvetrain components. It allows the PCM to learn the new mechanical tolerances of the system.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Reddit user in r/dodgedart (Dodge Dart with 2.4L MultiAir engine (same powertrain as ProMaster City)) — Stumbling during driving, a completely dead cylinder at times, and rough running. Code P1067 (likely a typo for a cylinder 2 fault) was present.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) The user went straight for the main repair after diagnosis.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The user replaced the entire MultiAir actuator ('brick') with a used part from a salvage yard. They noted that the expensive special service tool (SST) was not necessary; they were able to remove and install the new part by carefully loosening the last two bolts to let the assembly rise evenly. The total cost was around $300.

"I Checked Everything" — The Actual Cause

• A technician may confirm correct oil level, quality, and electrical integrity, yet the code persists. The root cause can be a small, often-overlooked oil filter screen for the MultiAir system located under the timing cover. If this filter becomes clogged with sludge or debris, it can restrict oil flow to the actuator and cause solenoid timing faults, even with good system oil pressure.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 5047980AA, 5047980AB, 5047980AC, 5047980AD, 5047457AD, 5047457AE → 05047980AE — Revisions typically address design improvements, material changes, or manufacturing process updates to increase reliability and prevent common failures.
  Heads up: Part number 05047980AE is specified for vehicles with a production date of March 1, 2014, and later. Using this part on an earlier build vehicle may cause issues. Always verify fitment with the vehicle's VIN.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2015-2016: There are no significant mechanical or electrical differences between the 2015 and 2016 model year Ram ProMaster City vehicles that would alter the cause, diagnosis, or repair of a P1068 fault. Both use the same 2.4L MultiAir engine and 9-speed transmission.