What it means
Low control voltage at the exhaust cam profile actuator (profile A, bank 1). Short to ground in wiring or 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 B camshaft profile actuator controls the exhaust cam profile, and the module monitors the voltage on its control circuit. P002B sets when that circuit is pulled lower than the expected range, often because the wiring or actuator circuit is shorted to ground.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Wiring shorted to ground
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
- Harness chafing through insulation
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Power loss especially in mid-rpm range
- Possible rough idle or stalling
- Increased fuel consumption
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and check for other actuator circuit codes that may indicate a shared electrical problem.
- Inspect the Bank 1 B profile actuator connector and harness for chafing, crushed insulation, corrosion, or moisture that could pull the control circuit low.
- Check connector terminals for corrosion or poor contact, then inspect the harness routing for a point where the wire may contact ground.
- Test the actuator coil and control wire for a short to ground using the wiring diagram and manufacturer’s specification.
- If the harness and actuator test correctly, verify module-side control circuit behavior using the manufacturer’s diagnostic procedure.
Common fixes
- Repair chafed or pinched Bank 1 B actuator wiring that is shorting to ground.
- Clean or replace corroded terminals and restore a secure connector fit.
- Replace a faulty Bank 1 exhaust profile actuator if it is confirmed to be shorted.
- Repair a confirmed control wire fault at the module connector.
Can I keep driving?
Limit driving and avoid hard acceleration because the exhaust cam profile may not switch as intended, causing power loss or rough running. Stop if the engine stalls 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.