What it means
A general electrical fault on camshaft position sensor B (typically the exhaust cam) on bank 1 — open, shorted, or out of plausibility. Required for variable valve timing on the exhaust cam.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
Camshaft Position Sensor B monitors the position of the B camshaft on bank 1, commonly the exhaust cam, so the control module can compare cam position with crankshaft position and manage valve timing. This code sets when the bank 1 Sensor B circuit has an electrical or plausibility fault, which can disrupt exhaust-cam timing control.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Camshaft position sensor B failure
- Damaged, loose, or corroded sensor wiring or connector
- Camshaft timing or reluctor issue
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 camshaft position and synchronization data for Sensor B on bank 1, along with related timing or sensor codes.
- Locate bank 1 and its Sensor B using vehicle-specific service information, then inspect that sensor's connector and wiring for oil, corrosion, looseness, or damage.
- Check the Sensor B circuit's power, ground, and signal against the wiring diagram and manufacturer's specification.
- If the circuit checks pass, compare the commanded and reported bank 1 exhaust-cam position and inspect the sensor signal while cranking or running as specified.
- If the signal and wiring are sound, investigate the bank 1 Sensor B reluctor, cam timing, and variable valve timing mechanism using the manufacturer's procedure.
Common fixes
- Repair damaged or loose wiring and connector terminals at bank 1 Camshaft Position Sensor B.
- Clean and secure the Sensor B connector and restore its seal if moisture or oil has entered.
- Replace bank 1 Camshaft Position Sensor B if it fails the manufacturer's electrical or signal test.
- Correct a confirmed reluctor, cam-timing, or variable valve timing fault affecting the bank 1 B camshaft.
Can I keep driving?
If the engine stalls, runs very roughly, or loses power, avoid driving in traffic and stop safely; cam timing faults can worsen and may prevent restarting. If it runs normally with a steady light, limit driving and arrange diagnosis soon.
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.