OBD-II fault code

P03F3: B Camshaft Profile Actuator C Control Circuit High (Bank 1)

What it means

B Camshaft Profile Actuator C Control Circuit High (Bank 1): the control-circuit voltage is above 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 B camshaft profile actuator C control circuit operates a mechanism that changes the cam profile. The engine control module monitors circuit voltage during control; this code sets when voltage is higher than expected, which can happen if the control wire contacts battery positive.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Short to B+
  2. Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
  3. 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

  1. Record freeze-frame data and check live data for the Bank 1 actuator C command and cam timing when the high-circuit fault appears.
  2. With the ignition off, inspect the actuator C connector and Bank 1 harness for pinched wiring, damaged insulation, or contact with a battery-positive feed.
  3. Check connector terminals for corrosion, looseness, or signs of heat that could interrupt the control signal.
  4. Use the wiring diagram and manufacturer’s procedure to test the actuator C control wire for a short to B+ and verify continuity.
  5. If the harness and connector pass, test the actuator and module circuit to the manufacturer’s specification before replacing components.

Common fixes

  • Separate and repair a control wire pinched against a B+ source.
  • Repair damaged Bank 1 actuator C wiring that is shorted to power.
  • Clean or repair corroded or loose connector terminals.
  • Replace the actuator or repair the module circuit only if testing confirms the fault there.

Can I keep driving?

Limit driving to a short trip if the engine runs smoothly, and avoid hard acceleration because cam-profile control may be impaired and power may drop. Stop if the engine stalls or becomes very rough.

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.

Codes for the same component