What it means
The control circuit of camshaft profile actuator B on the intake side of bank 2 reports a control circuit high condition. Cam profile B (high-lift or VTEC-style) cannot be commanded reliably.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
Actuator B switches the intake cam on bank 2 to its alternate, higher-lift profile. The control module monitors the actuator circuit and sets P2B38 when its signal is higher than expected, often because the control wire is shorted to battery voltage or the coil or connector has an electrical fault.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Control wire shorted to B+
- Open actuator coil
- 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
- Save freeze-frame data and inspect live data for the bank 2 intake profile command and any related circuit codes.
- Inspect actuator B's connector and nearby harness for corrosion, loose terminals, or wiring chafed against a power feed.
- With the circuit isolated as directed by the manufacturer, test the control wire for a short to battery voltage.
- Check the actuator coil against the manufacturer's specification; an open coil can also produce a high circuit reading.
- If those checks pass, use the manufacturer's circuit procedure to test connector continuity and the module connection.
Common fixes
- Secure the connector and repair corroded or loose terminals at the bank 2 intake actuator B.
- Repair wiring that is shorted to a power feed.
- Replace actuator B if its coil is open or otherwise outside specification.
- Repair a faulty module connection if circuit testing confirms it.
Can I keep driving?
Keep acceleration gentle because the bank 2 intake cam may not switch profiles, which can limit power and worsen fuel economy. If the engine stalls or becomes difficult to control, stop driving and arrange repair.
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.