P001C
A Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Circuit High Bank 1
Variable valve timing
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P001C is an electrical fault in the bank 1 camshaft profile (variable valve-lift) actuator control circuit. The engine control module sees higher-than-expected voltage, usually from an open circuit or a short to power on the solenoid's control wire. The valve-lift changeover may not engage, causing reduced power and rough running at certain engine speeds.
High
Can I keep driving? Usually drivable, but performance may be down and it won't clear itself — get the actuator circuit checked before it hurts economy or triggers limp mode.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Reduced power, especially at higher rpm
- Rough running or idle instability
- Reduced fuel economy
Common causes
Most likely first
- Open circuit or short to power in the actuator control wiring/connector (most likely for a High code)Likely
- Failed camshaft profile (valve-lift) actuator solenoidCommon
- Corroded or loose connector at the solenoidCommon
- Failed ECM driver (rare)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Scan and record freeze-frame data.
- Inspect the actuator solenoid connector and wiring for opens or a short to power.
- Measure the solenoid's resistance against spec and confirm its power and ground.
- Replace the camshaft profile actuator solenoid if it's out of spec.
- Only consider the ECM after wiring and the solenoid check out. Clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P001C?+
Generally yes, short-term. The variable-lift changeover may not work, so power can be down at higher rpm, but there's no immediate mechanical danger.
Can I just clear P001C?+
It returns until the circuit fault is fixed — this is an electrical High code, so look for an open or short to power on the solenoid wire.
Related codes
Often seen with P001C
Read & clear P001C 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