P000C
A Camshaft Position Slow Response Bank 2
Variable valve timing
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P000C means the intake camshaft phaser on bank 2 responds too slowly when the ECM commands a change in valve timing. The variable-valve-timing system relies on clean oil at the right pressure, so this code is often caused by dirty or low oil, a sticking oil-control valve, or a worn phaser. The engine may idle rough and lose power.
High
Can I keep driving? Usually drivable but not ideal — the engine may idle rough or lack power. Address it soon, since low oil pressure or a failing phaser can worsen and cause wear.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Rough or unstable idle
- Reduced power and poor acceleration
- Reduced fuel economy
- Occasional hard starting
Common causes
Most likely first
- Dirty, low, or wrong-viscosity oil, or an overdue oil change restricting phaser flowLikely
- Stuck or faulty camshaft oil-control valve (VVT solenoid), bank 2Common
- Clogged VVT oil passage or screenCommon
- Worn camshaft phaser (VCT unit)Less often
- Damaged or corroded wiring or connector at the solenoidLess often
- Failed engine control module (rare)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Check engine oil level and condition first; change oil and filter if dirty or overdue.
- Scan and read freeze-frame data to confirm the bank and conditions.
- Test and, if needed, clean or replace the bank 2 camshaft oil-control valve.
- Inspect the solenoid connector and wiring for corrosion or damage.
- If the phaser is worn or binding, replace it; treat the ECM as the last resort.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P000C?+
Short trips are usually fine, but the engine may run rough and lose power. Because it often starts with dirty oil or a weak phaser, get it looked at soon to avoid further wear.
Can I just clear P000C?+
It will return until the VVT solenoid, oil condition, or phaser is addressed. Start with an oil change if one is overdue.
Related codes
Often seen with P000C
Read & clear P000C yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX