What it means
Low control voltage at the cam profile actuator (intake, profile A, bank 1). Typically a short to ground in the wiring or actuator coil.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
The bank 1 intake camshaft profile actuator selects profile A, a cam-lift mode on engines with selectable lift profiles. The engine control module monitors its control circuit; this code sets when the circuit voltage is lower than expected, commonly because the circuit is shorted to ground or the actuator coil has an internal short.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Wiring shorted to ground
- Actuator coil shorted internally
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Power loss especially in mid-rpm range
- Possible rough idle or stalling
- Increased fuel consumption
How to diagnose it
- Save freeze-frame data and check live actuator commands and related codes to establish when the bank 1 profile A circuit fault occurs.
- Inspect the actuator connector and nearby wiring for corrosion, damaged insulation, chafing, or moisture that could pull the circuit low.
- Check for a short to ground in the bank 1 profile A control wire using the manufacturer's circuit test procedure.
- Measure the actuator coil as specified by the manufacturer and compare the result with its specification to check for an internal short.
- If the wiring and actuator pass, verify the control signal and module driver using the manufacturer's diagnostic procedure.
Common fixes
- Clean and secure a corroded or loose bank 1 actuator connector.
- Repair wiring shorted to ground in the profile A control circuit.
- Replace the bank 1 profile A actuator if its coil is confirmed shorted.
- Repair the control module circuit only after wiring and actuator tests identify it as the cause.
Can I keep driving?
The engine may lose power or run roughly if it cannot change cam-lift profile as intended. Keep loads and acceleration modest if symptoms are present, and stop if the engine stalls.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.