What it means
Voltage on the rocker arm actuator A control line on bank 2 is below the expected window. Usually a short to ground or a shorted solenoid coil.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
How it works
The control circuit operates rocker arm actuator A, which switches valve lift on bank 2. The controller sets this low-circuit code when it sees voltage below the expected range, commonly because the control wire is shorted to ground or the actuator coil is internally shorted.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Control wire shorted to ground
- Internal short in solenoid coil
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
Symptoms
- Check-engine light
- Reduced engine power or acceleration
- Rough running or engine misfire
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and check for related actuator circuit codes to see whether the low reading is isolated to bank 2 actuator A.
- Inspect the bank 2 actuator A connector and control-wire harness for chafing, corrosion, moisture, or contact with ground.
- Check live circuit data while gently moving the harness to see whether the low reading changes at a damaged section.
- Test the actuator coil and control wire for a short to ground using the manufacturer's procedure.
- If the actuator and wiring pass, test the control output at the module connector according to the manufacturer's specification.
Common fixes
- Clean and secure a corroded or loose bank 2 actuator A connector.
- Repair control-wire insulation where it is shorted to ground.
- Replace the actuator if its coil is internally shorted.
- Repair a faulty control-circuit connection identified at the module.
Can I keep driving?
Limit driving and avoid hard acceleration if the engine has reduced power or runs roughly, as bank 2 valve lift may not be controlled correctly. Stop if the engine misfires severely or the check-engine light flashes.
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.