What it means
Drive voltage to the intake VVT oil control valve on bank 1 is above the upper limit — short to supply or open ground side. The solenoid is energised constantly or the driver protection trips.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
The bank 1 A camshaft position actuator controls oil flow to the intake cam's variable timing mechanism. The module monitors the actuator control circuit and sets this code when its voltage is higher than expected, which can happen if the circuit is shorted to supply or its ground path is open.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Drive line shorted to supply
- ECU driver stage failed
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Power loss especially in mid-rpm range
- Possible rough idle or stalling
- Increased fuel consumption
How to diagnose it
- Review freeze-frame data and live cam timing to identify when the bank 1 intake actuator fault occurs and whether intake cam response changes.
- Inspect the bank 1 A actuator connector and harness for damaged insulation, contact with a power wire, or loose or corroded terminals.
- Check the actuator circuit for an open ground path or a short to supply using the manufacturer's wiring information.
- Test the intake actuator coil and control wiring against the manufacturer's specification.
- If the wiring and solenoid pass, check the module driver and intake cam timing system using the manufacturer's diagnostic procedure.
Common fixes
- Repair wiring shorted to supply or restore the open ground path in the bank 1 intake actuator circuit.
- Clean or repair corroded or loose actuator connector terminals.
- Replace the bank 1 intake cam actuator solenoid if it fails testing.
- Repair the control module driver only if circuit tests confirm it is faulty.
Can I keep driving?
A short, gentle drive may be possible if the engine runs smoothly, but avoid hard acceleration because intake cam timing may be affected. Stop if the engine stalls, runs very rough, or loses significant power.
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.