P2DEE: Cylinder 5 Intake Valve Lift Range/Performance

What it means

The variable intake valve lift on cylinder 5 does not reach the commanded position within tolerance. Mechanism wear or actuator force degraded.

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

The variable intake-lift mechanism controls the intake valve opening on cylinder 5, and the control module monitors its position relative to the command. This range/performance code sets when the cylinder 5 mechanism cannot reach the target lift within the allowed tolerance.

Common causes

Most likely first.

1. Variable lift mechanism worn
2. Oil pressure to actuator low
3. Sensor element aged beyond calibration window

Symptoms

• Check-engine light
• Reduced engine power or acceleration
• Rough idle or engine hesitation

How to diagnose it

1. Save freeze-frame data and review cylinder 5 misfire counts and live commanded versus actual lift to see when tracking fails.
2. Check engine oil level and condition first, since the cylinder 5 actuator relies on adequate oil supply to move the lift mechanism.
3. Inspect wiring and connectors at the cylinder 5 lift actuator and position sensor for damage, looseness, or contamination.
4. Use the manufacturer's scan-tool test to command cylinder 5 lift and confirm whether the reported position follows the command.
5. If the electrical response passes, check actuator oil supply and inspect the cylinder 5 mechanism for wear or binding.

Common fixes

• Bring engine oil to the specified level and condition.
• Repair poor connections or damaged wiring at the cylinder 5 actuator or position sensor.
• Replace the cylinder 5 position sensor if it fails the manufacturer's response test.
• Repair or replace the cylinder 5 lift mechanism or actuator if testing shows wear, binding, or inadequate movement.

Can I keep driving?

Drive gently and keep trips limited because cylinder 5 may hesitate or misfire and power may be reduced. Stop if the check-engine light flashes or the engine runs severely rough to avoid worsening catalytic-converter damage.