What it means
A Camshaft Position Actuator Position Sensor C Circuit Low (Bank 1): the signal voltage is below the expected range. This relates to engine timing; a fault can cause rough running, a no-start, or timing errors.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
The Bank 1 camshaft position actuator position sensor C provides actuator position feedback to the ECM. This code sets when the circuit signal is below its expected range, which can happen with a short to ground, damaged wiring, or excessive resistance at corroded connector contacts.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Short 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 Bank 1 camshaft actuator position data for a persistently low or missing sensor C reading.
- Inspect the Bank 1 sensor C connector and harness for corrosion, chafing, crushed insulation, or moisture.
- With the wiring diagram, check the sensor C signal circuit for a short to ground and inspect terminal contact for excessive resistance.
- Verify the Bank 1 sensor C supply and ground circuits against the manufacturer's specification.
- If wiring checks pass, test the sensor and ECM input according to the manufacturer's procedure.
Common fixes
- Clean and secure corroded or loose Bank 1 sensor C connector terminals.
- Repair chafed Bank 1 sensor C wiring and insulate it away from grounded or moving parts.
- Repair a confirmed signal-wire short to ground or high-resistance connection.
- Replace the Bank 1 camshaft actuator position sensor C if it fails testing.
Can I keep driving?
If the engine runs normally, limit driving and avoid hard acceleration until the low signal is diagnosed. Stop if it stalls or loses substantial power, since the ECM may not be able to control Bank 1 camshaft timing reliably.
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.