What it means
Drive voltage to the exhaust VVT oil control valve on bank 1 is below the lower limit. Same failure pattern as P2088 but for the exhaust cam phaser.
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 position actuator controls oil flow to the exhaust cam's variable timing mechanism. The module monitors its control circuit and sets this code when circuit voltage is below the expected range, such as from a short to ground or a shorted exhaust actuator coil.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Drive line shorted to ground
- Exhaust VVT solenoid internally shorted
- 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 note when the bank 1 exhaust actuator fault occurs and whether exhaust cam response is affected.
- Inspect the bank 1 B actuator connector and nearby wiring for corrosion, damaged insulation, or contact with ground.
- Check the connector terminals for corrosion or poor fit that could interrupt the exhaust actuator circuit.
- Test the actuator coil and wiring for a short to ground or abnormal continuity against the manufacturer's specification.
- If the circuit and actuator pass, check the module driver and exhaust cam timing system using the manufacturer's diagnostic procedure.
Common fixes
- Clean or repair corroded terminals at the bank 1 B actuator connector.
- Repair wiring shorted to ground in the exhaust actuator control circuit.
- Replace the bank 1 exhaust cam actuator solenoid if its coil fails testing.
- Repair the control module driver only if circuit tests confirm it is faulty.
Can I keep driving?
You may be able to drive gently if the engine runs smoothly, but avoid hard acceleration because exhaust cam timing may not respond correctly. 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.