Engine

P005B — B Camshaft Profile Control Stuck On, Bank 1

Severity: medium Drive with care, to a shop

What P005B means

The engine computer adjusts the profile (timing or lift) of the bank 1 "B" camshaft using a solenoid that directs oil to the actuator. P005B sets when the computer commands the actuator off but it stays on. Valve timing then no longer matches what the engine needs.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light on
  • Reduced power and acceleration
  • Rough running or poor driveability
  • Lower fuel economy
  • Possible reduced-power mode

Possible causes

  1. Stuck or failed camshaft profile control solenoid
  2. Low, dirty, or wrong-viscosity engine oil
  3. Insufficient oil pressure to the VVT system
  4. Wiring or connector fault in the solenoid circuit
  5. Faulty camshaft position sensor
  6. Mechanical binding in the actuator or camshaft components

How to diagnose

  1. Scan all codes and freeze-frame data, noting any other timing or oil pressure codes
  2. Check oil level, condition, and that it meets the manufacturer's specification
  3. Inspect the solenoid connector and wiring for damage, oil intrusion, and corrosion
  4. Measure solenoid resistance against spec and check power and ground at the connector
  5. Use a scan tool to command the actuator on and off and compare commanded and actual cam position
  6. Check the camshaft position sensor signal with a scope or scan data
  7. Test oil pressure with a mechanical gauge
  8. Remove the solenoid and inspect it and its screen for debris or sticking

Common fixes

  • Replace the camshaft profile control solenoid
  • Change the oil and filter using the specified oil
  • Repair the wiring harness or connector
  • Replace the camshaft position sensor if faulty
  • Repair the mechanical fault in the actuator or camshaft

Questions and answers

What does P005B mean?

The engine computer sees the bank 1 B camshaft profile control actuator stuck in the on state. The usual culprits are the solenoid, the oil, or the wiring.

Can I drive with P005B?

Briefly, yes, but don't put it off. You will likely lose power and fuel economy, and oil-related causes can lead to engine wear.

Will an oil change fix P005B?

It might if the oil is old, dirty, or the wrong grade. If the solenoid or wiring is at fault, you will need a repair.

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.