P002A
B Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Circuit/Open Bank 1
Variable valve lift / cam control
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P002A means the engine computer detected an open control circuit for the 'B' (typically exhaust) camshaft profile / variable-valve-lift actuator on bank 1. With the circuit open the actuator can't switch cam profiles, so the engine runs in its default lift mode and loses some power. This is an electrical fault, not a timing or no-start problem.
High
Can I keep driving? Generally driveable — the engine runs in its default valve-lift mode and mainly loses top-end power. Fix it to restore full performance.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Loss of high-rpm power or valve-lift mode
- Slightly rough running under load
- Reduced fuel economy on some engines
Common causes
Most likely first
- Open or broken wire in the actuator control circuitLikely
- Failed camshaft profile (valve-lift) actuator solenoidCommon
- Corroded, loose, or backed-out connector at the actuatorCommon
- Failed ECM control driverLess often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and check the actuator connector for continuity, power, and ground.
- Inspect the control wiring for opens, breaks, or chafing between the ECM and actuator.
- Measure the solenoid resistance — an open coil means a bad actuator.
- Clean or repair the connector and pins.
- If wiring and actuator are good, suspect the ECM driver. Clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P002A?+
Generally yes for gentle driving — the engine defaults to its base valve-lift mode, so you mostly lose top-end power. Fix it to restore full performance.
Can I just clear P002A?+
It'll clear, but the open-circuit fault re-triggers the code once detected. Repair the wiring or actuator first.
Related codes
Often seen with P002A
Read & clear P002A 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