What it means
Electrical fault in the bank 2 exhaust camshaft position actuator. Same diagnostic principle as P0013 but on the second cylinder bank.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
Variable valve timing uses an electrically controlled solenoid to route oil to the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft actuator. The engine control module monitors that actuator’s electrical circuit and sets P0023 when it detects an electrical fault in the circuit for the B camshaft position actuator on Bank 2.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Faulty bank 2 camshaft actuator solenoid
- Open, shorted, or damaged wiring or connector
- Poor electrical connection
- Engine oil contamination affecting the actuator
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Power loss especially in mid-rpm range
- Possible rough idle or stalling
- Increased fuel consumption
How to diagnose it
- Use a scan tool to record freeze-frame data and check for related camshaft or circuit codes, which can point to when the Bank 2 exhaust actuator fault occurs.
- Identify Bank 2 and inspect the exhaust cam actuator solenoid connector and harness for loose pins, corrosion, oil intrusion, chafing, or breaks.
- Check the solenoid coil and its wiring for an open or short using the vehicle’s wiring diagram and compare measurements with the manufacturer’s specification.
- Verify power, ground, and control at the Bank 2 exhaust actuator connector under the conditions specified by the manufacturer.
- If the circuit and connector are sound, inspect the actuator for contamination or sticking and check the engine oil condition and level.
Common fixes
- Reconnect or repair a loose, corroded, or damaged Bank 2 exhaust actuator connector or wiring.
- Correct the oil level and replace contaminated or incorrect oil and filter with the specified type.
- Replace the Bank 2 exhaust cam actuator solenoid if its electrical test fails.
- Repair the circuit fault if testing finds an open or short in the control or supply wiring.
Can I keep driving?
If the engine runs smoothly and the warning light is steady, limit driving and avoid hard acceleration; the fault can reduce power, worsen fuel economy, or lead to rough running or stalling. Stop if it stalls, runs very roughly, or the warning light flashes.
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.