P001B
A Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Circuit Low Bank 1
Variable valve timing
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P001B means the ECM has detected low voltage β a short to ground or an open β in the control circuit for the bank 1 camshaft profile actuator, the solenoid that switches the valve-lift or cam profile. It's an electrical fault, usually in the wiring, connector, or solenoid. The engine typically defaults to one profile, so you may notice weaker power at higher rpm.
High
Can I keep driving? Usually drivable β the engine typically defaults to one cam profile, so you may notice weaker high-rpm power. Fix it soon to restore full performance and clear the fault.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Loss of power at higher rpm or when the cam profile should switch
- Rough running or slightly reduced performance
- Reduced fuel economy
Common causes
Most likely first
- Short to ground or open in the actuator control circuit wiringLikely
- Corroded, loose, or damaged connector at the cam profile actuatorCommon
- Faulty camshaft profile actuator solenoid, bank 1Common
- Failed control driver in the engine control module (rare)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Scan and read freeze-frame data to confirm the circuit and conditions.
- Inspect the actuator connector and wiring for a short to ground, chafing, or corrosion.
- Measure the solenoid's resistance and compare against specification.
- Repair or replace damaged wiring; replace the cam profile actuator solenoid if it fails testing.
- If wiring and solenoid are good, check the ECM driver as a last resort.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P001B?+
Generally yes for short trips β the engine usually runs on a default cam profile with reduced high-rpm power. Repair it soon so you're not driving with a disabled valvetrain feature.
Can I just clear P001B?+
It will come back until the low-voltage circuit fault or solenoid is fixed. This is an electrical circuit code, so clearing alone won't help.
Related codes
Often seen with P001B
Read & clear P001B yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed β with OBD DashX on your phone.
β Verified name β SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX