What it means
The control circuit of camshaft profile actuator B on the exhaust 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 exhaust cam on bank 2 to its alternate, higher-lift profile. The control module monitors the circuit and sets P2B3E when its signal is too high, which can indicate a wire shorted to battery voltage, an open coil, or a poor connector contact.
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 review live data for the bank 2 exhaust profile command and related circuit codes.
- Inspect actuator B's connector and harness on the bank 2 exhaust side for corrosion, loose terminals, or chafing near a power feed.
- With the circuit isolated as directed by the manufacturer, test the control wire for a short to battery voltage.
- Measure actuator B's coil against the manufacturer's specification, since an open coil can cause a high reading.
- If the wire and coil pass, follow the manufacturer's circuit test to check connector continuity and the module connection.
Common fixes
- Secure the connector and repair corroded or loose terminals at bank 2 exhaust actuator B.
- Repair wiring shorted to a power feed.
- Replace actuator B if its coil is open or out of specification.
- Repair a faulty module connection if testing confirms it.
Can I keep driving?
Keep acceleration gentle because the bank 2 exhaust cam may not change profiles, reducing power and affecting fuel economy. Stop if the engine stalls or runs too roughly to drive safely.
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.