Engine

P002E — Camshaft Profile Control Circuit "B" Low (Bank 2)

Severity: medium Drive with care, to a shop

What P002E means

The engine computer adjusts valve timing or profile through an oil-controlled solenoid (actuator) and monitors the voltage in its control circuit. P002E sets when the Bank 2 camshaft profile control circuit B reads lower than expected. Typical reasons are an open or shorted wire, a poor connection, a failed solenoid or, rarely, a driver fault inside the computer.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine light on
  • Reduced engine power
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Hesitation or abnormal throttle response
  • Rough idle

Possible causes

  1. Faulty camshaft profile (VVT) solenoid or actuator
  2. Damaged wiring: open circuit or short to ground
  3. Corroded or loose connector pins
  4. Low, dirty or wrong-grade engine oil
  5. PCM failure (uncommon)

How to diagnose

  1. Scan all codes and freeze-frame data, clear the code and see if it returns
  2. Check oil level and condition, and confirm it matches the manufacturer's spec
  3. Inspect the Bank 2 solenoid connector and harness for chafing, burning or corrosion
  4. Measure solenoid coil resistance and compare to specification
  5. Check for power and ground at the connector and for a control signal from the PCM
  6. Test the wiring to the PCM for opens and shorts to ground
  7. Command the solenoid with a scan tool active test
  8. Remove the solenoid and inspect it and its oil screen for debris

Common fixes

  • Replace the solenoid or actuator
  • Repair the wiring or replace the damaged connector
  • Change the oil and filter using the specified oil
  • Diagnose and, if confirmed faulty, replace or reprogram the PCM

Questions and answers

What does P002E mean?

It means low signal in the camshaft profile control circuit B on Bank 2. The PCM isn't seeing the expected electrical response from the valve timing solenoid.

Can I drive with P002E?

Briefly and carefully, yes, but expect lower power and higher fuel use. Have it diagnosed soon.

Can bad oil cause P002E?

Yes, low or dirty oil can disturb the hydraulic timing system. Start with the oil, then inspect the wiring and solenoid.

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.