P001A
A Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Circuit/Open Bank 1
Variable valve lift
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P001A means the control circuit for bank 1's "A" camshaft profile actuator is open. That actuator switches the engine between valve-lift profiles; with its circuit open the ECM can't operate it, so the engine loses the high-lift profile and may feel down on power or run rough. It's an electrical-circuit fault, not a timing-sensor failure, so it does not cause a no-start.
High
Can I keep driving? Usually yes — with the profile actuator circuit open the engine loses valve-lift switching, so it may feel flat at higher rpm and run a little rough, but it will still start and drive.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Reduced power, especially at higher rpm
- Rough running under load
- Decreased fuel economy
Common causes
Most likely first
- Open or shorted wiring/connector in the profile actuator control circuitLikely
- Failed camshaft profile actuator solenoidCommon
- Corroded or loose connector at the actuatorCommon
- Low oil pressure on oil-actuated profile systemsLess often
- Faulty PCM/ECM (rare)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and confirm the code.
- Inspect the actuator connector and wiring for opens or corrosion.
- Measure the actuator solenoid resistance and check for power and ground.
- On oil-actuated systems, verify oil level and pressure.
- Repair wiring or replace the actuator; consider the ECM only if the circuit is good.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P001A?+
The car will start and drive, but you've lost variable valve-lift control, so expect weaker top-end power. It's fine to drive gently to a repair.
Can I just clear P001A?+
An open circuit re-triggers the code almost immediately; repair the wiring or actuator first.
Related codes
Often seen with P001A
Read & clear P001A 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