P2008 on 2014-2019 Ram 2500 5.7L HEMI: Intake Runner Control Circuit Fixes

What's Unique About the 2014-2019 Ram 2500

The 5.7L HEMI in this generation of Ram trucks is known for this specific P2008 fault. The primary weakness is the wiring harness leading to the SRV actuator, which is located at the rear of the intake manifold against the firewall. The harness is often too short from the factory, and years of heat and vibration make the wires brittle, leading to an internal break that causes the 'open circuit' fault. This is a well-documented issue, with Dorman offering an 'OE FIX' kit (911-933) with a longer pigtail specifically to address the problem. While the actuator itself can fail from heat cycles, inspecting the wiring first can save you from buying a part you don't need.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Reduced engine power and poor acceleration
• Rough or stumbling idle
• Decreased fuel economy
• Engine hesitation
• A 'flat spot' in acceleration

Most Likely Causes

1. Damaged Wiring or Electrical Connector 🔴 High Probability The wiring harness to the SRV actuator at the back of the intake manifold is notoriously short and exposed to heat, causing wires to become brittle and break over time, often right at the connector. Rodent damage is also a common cause of wiring faults in this area, as reported by owners.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness leading to the SRV actuator for any signs of breaks, chafing, or corrosion. Gently tug on each wire at the connector to see if it pulls out. Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the PCM connector and the SRV connector. The SRV control circuit is often the K238 wire, and the ground is Z908.
   Typical fix: Repair the broken wire(s) using a butt connector and heat shrink tubing. If the break is at the connector, splicing in a new connector pigtail is the best solution. Dorman offers an OE FIX kit (911-933) with a longer pigtail to prevent recurrence.
   Est. part cost: $15-$60
2. Failed Short Runner Valve (SRV) Actuator 🔴 High Probability → Shop Engine Intake Manifold The actuator (a solenoid) is subject to intense heat cycles at the back of the engine, which can cause its internal coil to fail and create an open circuit. This is the second most common failure after the wiring itself.
   How to confirm: If the wiring is confirmed to be good, use a scan tool to command the SRV on and off. If you don't hear a click from the actuator, it has likely failed. You can also test the resistance of the solenoid with a multimeter; an infinite reading (OL) indicates an open circuit. The actuator should click during the PCM's self-test when the ignition is turned off.
   Typical fix: Replace the Short Runner Valve actuator. This part is mounted to the rear of the intake manifold. The Mopar part number is 53022137AL.
   Est. part cost: $240-$370
3. Outdated PCM Software ⚪ Low Probability Chrysler released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 18-012-14 REV. A for some 2013 Ram 1500 and 2012-2013 Ram 2500 CNG models that addresses a false P2008 code, which can be fixed by a software update. While this TSB is specific, it highlights that software glitches can trigger this code, and checking for any available updates for your specific VIN is a valid diagnostic step.
   How to confirm: A dealership or a shop with a subscription to OEM data (like with a wiTECH scan tool) can check the current PCM software version against the latest available version from the manufacturer.
   Typical fix: Reprogram the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with the updated software.
   Est. part cost: $0-$200
4. Blown Fuse ⚪ Low Probability While not specific to this vehicle, a blown fuse for the circuit can cause the code. One owner on a Ram forum reported that a blown 20A fuse in the M21 slot of the underhood fuse box caused persistent P2008 and P2017 codes after other parts were replaced.
   How to confirm: Check the M21 (20A) fuse in the underhood fuse box (Power Distribution Center).
   Typical fix: Replace the blown fuse. If it blows again, there is a short circuit in the harness that must be located and repaired.
   Est. part cost: $1-$5

Rare But Worth Checking

• Sticking Intake Runner Flaps: While P2008 is an electrical code, severely carbon-fouled or physically binding runner flaps can put excess strain on the actuator motor, causing it to burn out and create an electrical fault. When replacing the actuator, it is wise to manually move the linkage arm to ensure the flaps move freely.
• Failed Powertrain Control Module (PCM): → Shop Engine Control Module (ECM) This is extremely rare. The internal driver circuit within the PCM that controls the SRV can fail, but this should only be considered after all other possibilities (wiring, actuator, fuses) have been exhaustively ruled out.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Read the codes with an OBD-II scanner to confirm P2008 is present. Note any other codes like P2017 or P1004.
2. Check the M21 (20A) fuse in the underhood fuse box.
3. Perform a thorough visual inspection of the wiring harness and connector at the rear of the intake manifold. Look for obvious breaks, chafing, melting, or signs of rodents. Gently tug each wire at the connector.
4. If wiring looks intact, use a scan tool with bidirectional controls to command the Short Runner Valve (SRV) actuator on and off. Listen for an audible click from the actuator. You can also listen for the click during the PCM's self-test immediately after turning the ignition off.
5. If no click is heard, unplug the connector and use a multimeter to check for 12-volt power at the connector with the key on, engine off. Check for proper ground on the ground circuit (wire Z908).
6. If power and ground are present, the issue is a failed SRV actuator. If power or ground is missing, the problem is a break in the wiring between the fuse/PCM and the connector.
7. If the actuator clicks but the code returns, the problem may be intermittent. Wiggle the harness while monitoring the circuit with a scan tool to see if the connection drops.
8. Before replacing an expensive PCM, check with a dealer to see if any software updates (like TSB 18-012-14 REV. A for applicable models) are available for your vehicle's VIN.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Short Runner Valve (SRV) Actuator (OEM #53022137AL) — This actuator is the most common part to fail after the wiring, either from internal electrical failure due to heat or from stress caused by binding runner flaps. The part number 53022137AL supersedes several previous versions (AE, AF, AG, AH, AI, AJ, AK).
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $250-$370
  Aftermarket price range: $150-$250
• Connector Pigtail (OEM #68064996AA) — If the connector itself is damaged or corroded, or if a wire is broken right at the connector, a new pigtail will be needed to make a solid repair. Dorman's OE FIX kit 911-933 includes a longer pigtail to prevent future failures.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Dorman
  OEM price range: $30-$50
  Aftermarket price range: $15-$30

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P2017 — P2017 ('Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor Circuit High') relates to the position sensor, which is integrated into the same SRV actuator assembly. Seeing both codes together strongly points to a fault with the actuator itself or its shared wiring/power source.
• P1004 — This is a manufacturer-specific code for 'Short Runner Valve Control Performance'. It indicates the valve isn't moving as expected, which can be triggered by the same electrical faults that cause P2008. TSBs often group these codes together.
• P2009 — This is the companion code to P2008, indicating 'Intake Manifold Runner Control Circuit Low' (a short circuit). Both codes point to the same failure-prone wiring harness and actuator.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• TSB 18-012-14 REV. A: For some 2013 Ram 1500 and 2012-2013 Ram 2500 CNG models with the 5.7L engine, this bulletin advises reprogramming the PCM to fix a false P2008 code, among others.
• TSB 18-003-10: An older TSB referenced by Dorman that explains the failure of the IMRC due to insufficient slack in the wiring harness, leading to codes like P2008.
• TSB Bulletin #1810016: A manufacturer service bulletin notes that P2008 (Short Runner Valve Control Circuit) and P1004 (Short Runner Valve Control Performance) may appear alongside P0300 misfire codes, particularly on vehicles using a block heater in ambient temperatures greater than -20°F.
• TSB Bulletin #18-012-14: This bulletin addresses the Short Runner Valve (SRV) Control Circuit (P2008) and Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor Circuit (P2016) as part of a software improvement for engine performance.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A known issue on the 5.7L HEMI is that the wiring harness for the SRV actuator is too short, causing stress on the wires that leads to breakage over time. This is documented in TSBs for earlier models and addressed by aftermarket kits.
• The location of the actuator at the rear of the intake manifold makes it difficult to access and susceptible to damage from high heat.
• A user on RamForu

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• (K238) SRV Control Circuit Resistance — expected: Less than 5.0 Ohms. Failure: A reading higher than 5.0 Ohms or OL (Open Line) indicates an open or high resistance in the control wire between the PCM and the actuator connector.
• (Z908) SRV Ground Circuit Resistance — expected: Less than 5.0 Ohms. Failure: A reading higher than 5.0 Ohms indicates a poor ground connection between the actuator connector and the chassis ground.
• (K238) SRV Control Circuit Resistance to Ground — expected: Greater than 100 Ohms. Failure: A reading less than 100 Ohms indicates the control wire is shorted to ground.
• (F344) ASD Relay Output Circuit Voltage — expected: Battery voltage (approx. 12V). Failure: Low or no voltage at the SRV connector with the ignition on indicates a problem with the power supply from the Auto Shutdown (ASD) relay or a blown fuse.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH or equivalent bidirectional scanner: SRV Solenoid Control State — After verifying power and ground are present at the actuator connector, use this command to toggle the SRV actuator on and off. A lack of an audible click from the actuator during this test confirms a failed actuator, assuming the wiring is good.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• SRV Actuator Connector — At the rear of the intake manifold, against the firewall, often tucked under the engine cover.. This is the primary connection point for all power, ground, and control signals to the actuator. It is the most common location for wiring to break due to a short factory harness.
• K238 (SRV Control) — Wire running from the SRV actuator connector to Pin 53 of the PCM C2 connector.. This is the specific wire the PCM uses to send the 'open/close' command to the actuator. An open or short on this wire is a direct cause of P2008.
• Z908 (SRV Ground Circuit) — Wire running from the SRV actuator connector to a chassis ground.. This wire provides the ground path for the actuator's electrical circuit. High resistance or an open in this wire will prevent the actuator from functioning and set a P2008 code.
• F344 (ASD Relay Output) — Wire providing power from the Auto Shutdown (ASD) relay/fuse box to the SRV actuator connector.. This is the power supply for the actuator. A lack of voltage on this wire, due to a blown fuse (M21) or wire break, will cause the P2008 code.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• RamForum.com user 'Hemi395' (2013 Ram 5.7 Hemi) — Check Engine Light with code P2008 that returned immediately after clearing.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Clearing the code.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The dealership technician found a bad wiring connector at the short runner valve. The fix was to splice in a new connector from a new harness. The dealer opened Chrysler STAR case S1308000002 for the issue, noting it was the first time they had seen that specific failure.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 53022137AE, AF, AG, AH, AI, AJ, AK → 53022137AL — Successive part revisions by Mopar to improve reliability and address heat-related failure modes.
  Heads up: While older versions might physically fit, installing the latest 'AL' version is strongly recommended for longevity as it is the official service part.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2019: In 2019, both the 4th generation 'Classic' (DS/DJ) and the new 5th generation (DT) were sold. While the 5.7L HEMI SRV system and its common faults are nearly identical, it is crucial to verify the vehicle platform using the VIN to ensure correct wiring diagrams are used for diagnosis.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Other Known Issues on This Vehicle

Issues unrelated to this code that are worth knowing about as an owner of this generation:

• Broken Exhaust Manifold Bolts (The 'HEMI Tick') 🔴 High — Very common, especially on the rear-most bolts of the manifolds. Often occurs between 80,000-150,000 miles. The symptom is a ticking noise on a cold start that may quiet down as the engine warms and the manifold expands.
• Camshaft and Lifter Failure (The 'HEMI Tick') 🔴 High — A well-documented issue, particularly prevalent in 2009-2014 models, but can occur in later years. Often manifests between 70,000-130,000 miles. It is often attributed to issues with the MDS (Multi-Displacement System) lifters and oiling at idle. Symptoms start with a metallic tick and can progress to misfire codes (P0300-P0308) and engine damage if not addressed.
• Steering Linkage Failure ('Death Wobble') 🔴 High — Common on Ram 2500/3500 models. Can be caused by various worn front-end components. A recall (Chrysler #V06, NHTSA #19V021000) was issued for the 2014-2018 Ram 2500 to address a loosening drag link jam nut that could cause a loss of steering. (Ref: NHTSA Recall 19V021000)
• Water Pump Failure 🟠 Medium — A recall (Chrysler #T51, NHTSA #17V562000) was issued for 2013-2017 Ram 2500/3500 trucks due to water pumps that could leak and potentially cause an engine compartment fire. (Ref: NHTSA Recall 17V562000)

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide for This Vehicle

When a used part is the smart pick: For the SRV actuator, a used part from a low-mileage donor vehicle can be a cost-effective solution if the budget is tight. Since the failure is often electrical due to heat cycles, a part from a newer or lower-mileage truck has a higher chance of a longer remaining life.

Donor-vehicle mileage cap: roughly under 60000 miles for the part to have meaningful remaining life.

What to inspect on the donor part:

• Check the electrical connector pins for any signs of corrosion, melting, or damage.
• Inspect the plastic housing for cracks or signs of extreme heat exposure.
• If possible, manually move the actuator's linkage arm to ensure it is not seized (though this doesn't test the electronics).
• Ask for the VIN of the donor vehicle to verify its year and mileage.

OEM-only on this vehicle (don't cheap out):

• While not strictly required, the Mopar OEM actuator (part #53022137AL) is highly recommended due to the numerous revisions made to improve its durability in the high-heat environment at the back of the engine.

Aftermarket brands forum-validated for this vehicle:

• Dorman (OE FIX Kit 911-933): This kit is frequently recommended because it includes not only the actuator but also a longer wiring pigtail specifically designed to fix the common 'short harness' issue from the factory.
• Standard Motor Products: Mentioned as a reliable alternative to OEM for the actuator itself.

Brands owners have reported issues with on this vehicle:

• No specific brands are consistently reported as problematic, but one owner reported receiving an incorrect gasket with a Dorman kit, highlighting the need to inspect all parts from any brand before installation.

Real Owner Stories

Aggregated from forums and TSBs cited above. Mileages and costs reflect what owners reported in those sources.

Related OBD-II Codes

• P2017 — Often appears alongside P2008; can be triggered by the same blown M21 fuse or wiring faults in the SRV/IMRC circuit.
• P1004 — A common companion code related to the Short Runner Valve performance, often caused by the same actuator or wiring failures at the back of the intake manifold.
• P0300-P0308 — Misfire codes that may eventually appear if the engine develops the 'HEMI Tick' (camshaft/lifter failure), a known issue for this engine platform.

Frequently Asked Questions