What it means
The control circuit of camshaft profile actuator B on the intake side of bank 2 reports a control performance/stuck off 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
Profile actuator B controls the alternate cam profile on the intake side of bank 2. The control module monitors whether the commanded profile change occurs; this code indicates the bank 2 intake mechanism remains in, or behaves like it remains in, the off or low-lift state.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Actuator stuck in low-lift position
- Oil pressure to actuator insufficient
- Carbon or debris buildup preventing free movement
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Power loss especially in mid-rpm range
- Possible rough idle or stalling
- Increased fuel consumption
How to diagnose it
- Capture freeze-frame data and check live data to confirm whether profile B was requested on bank 2 and whether its state changed.
- Check engine oil level and condition, since inadequate oil supply can keep the bank 2 intake profile actuator from moving.
- Inspect the bank 2 intake actuator, its wiring connector, and accessible oil feed area for damage, poor connections, leaks, or contamination.
- Test the bank 2 actuator control circuit and command response using the vehicle's service information.
- If oil supply and electrical control are adequate, check the bank 2 intake profile mechanism for carbon buildup, debris, or mechanical sticking.
Common fixes
- Correct low or degraded engine oil and resolve any restricted oil feed to the actuator.
- Repair damaged wiring or poor connector contact at the bank 2 intake profile actuator.
- Clean contamination from the mechanism if the manufacturer's service procedure allows it.
- Replace the bank 2 intake profile actuator if it remains stuck off.
Can I keep driving?
Expect reduced mid-range power and possibly rough running while bank 2 stays on the low-lift profile. Keep acceleration gentle and avoid situations requiring strong power; stop if the engine stalls or becomes severely rough.
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.