Engine

P002C — Camshaft Profile Control Circuit "B" High (Bank 1)

Severity: medium Drive with care, to a shop

What P002C means

The ECM adjusts bank 1 camshaft timing or lift through a variable valve timing control solenoid. P002C sets when the voltage in that solenoid's control circuit stays higher than expected. The cause can be the solenoid, its wiring and connector, or the control module itself.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine light on
  • Reduced engine power
  • Sluggish throttle response
  • Worse fuel economy
  • Rough or unstable idle

Possible causes

  1. Faulty camshaft profile control (VVT) solenoid
  2. Dirty oil, wrong viscosity or incorrect oil level
  3. Damaged wiring or corroded connector pins in the solenoid circuit
  4. Faulty camshaft position sensor
  5. ECM failure (uncommon)

How to diagnose

  1. Scan for all codes and freeze frame data, clear the code and see if it returns.
  2. Check oil level, condition and viscosity against the manufacturer's spec.
  3. Inspect the solenoid harness and connector for chafing, oil contamination, corrosion or loose pins.
  4. Measure the solenoid coil resistance and compare it to the spec.
  5. At the connector, check power and ground and test the control wire for a short to voltage.
  6. Check the camshaft position sensor signal and its correlation with the crankshaft sensor.
  7. Remove the solenoid and inspect it and its screen for debris or sticking.
  8. If wiring and solenoid test good, test the ECM and check for software updates.

Common fixes

  • Replace the camshaft profile control solenoid
  • Repair damaged wiring or replace the connector
  • Change the oil and filter with the correct viscosity and spec
  • Replace the camshaft position sensor
  • Reflash or replace the ECM once confirmed faulty

Questions and answers

What does P002C mean?

The ECM detected high voltage in the bank 1 camshaft profile control circuit B. The usual suspects are the VVT solenoid, wiring or oil condition.

Can I drive with P002C?

For a short time, such as to a shop, usually yes. Expect possible reduced power and unstable running, so don't put off diagnosis.

Can bad oil cause P002C?

Yes. Wrong viscosity, low level or dirty oil can hurt VVT operation. Check and change the oil first.

This is general information about the code. The meaning can differ between makes and models: a scan tool and the repair manual for your car will show the exact cause.