What it means
Excessively high control voltage at the exhaust cam profile actuator (profile A, bank 1). Short to power or open ground.
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 through a circuit monitored by the module. P002C sets when the control circuit voltage is higher than expected, which can happen with a short to power or a lost ground path.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Wiring shorted to battery voltage
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
- Supply wire pinched against B+ source
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 look for related actuator circuit codes that could point to a shared power or ground issue.
- Inspect the Bank 1 B profile actuator connector and wiring for pinched insulation, exposed conductors, corrosion, or a poor ground connection.
- Check the harness routing for contact with a battery supply or another powered wire, and confirm connector terminals are seated and undamaged.
- Test the actuator circuit for a short to power and check the ground path using the wiring diagram and manufacturer’s specification.
- If the circuit checks out, verify module-side outputs and grounds using the manufacturer’s diagnostic procedure.
Common fixes
- Repair wiring insulation or routing where the Bank 1 B actuator control wire contacts a power source.
- Restore a damaged or corroded ground connection and secure the connector terminals.
- Replace a faulty Bank 1 exhaust profile actuator if testing confirms it is causing the high circuit reading.
- Repair a confirmed short to power or ground fault in the control harness.
Can I keep driving?
Keep driving to a minimum and avoid hard acceleration because the exhaust cam profile may not respond correctly, reducing power and causing rough running. 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.