What it means
Cam profile actuator B position C is electrically OK but does not engage when commanded. The cam phaser actuator adjusts intake/exhaust timing under load — a stuck or slow phaser kills mid-rpm torque and can throw correlation codes between cam and crank.
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 changes the cam profile to help the engine deliver power across its operating range. The module commands the actuator and checks whether the mechanism responds; this code sets when the circuit appears functional but the commanded profile change does not engage.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Lock pin or oil supply restricted
- Carbon or debris buildup preventing free movement
- Component wear with age - mechanical play
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 compare the Bank 1 actuator C command with its reported response and cam timing in live data.
- Check engine oil level and condition, and look for signs of restricted oil supply because the mechanism may depend on oil flow to move.
- Inspect the actuator C connector and Bank 1 wiring for damage that could interrupt a command despite an apparently electrical pass.
- Follow the manufacturer’s procedure to verify the actuator command and oil supply to the Bank 1 profile mechanism.
- If command and oil supply are present, inspect for a sticking lock mechanism, debris, or mechanical wear using the manufacturer’s procedure.
Common fixes
- Correct low or degraded engine oil and address the cause if oil supply is restricted.
- Repair damaged wiring or poor connections at the Bank 1 actuator C.
- Clean or service the profile mechanism if debris is preventing movement, where the manufacturer permits it.
- Replace a sticking or mechanically worn actuator or related mechanism after confirming the cause.
Can I keep driving?
If the engine runs steadily, drive gently and avoid heavy loads because mid-range power can be reduced. Stop if it stalls or develops severe roughness, since continued operation with a timing-control problem can worsen drivability.
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.