Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit High Bank 2
What it means
P0086 means the ECM detected an abnormally high voltage in the bank 2 exhaust valve control solenoid circuit — the solenoid that regulates the exhaust-side valve/cam control. That usually points to a short to voltage or a failed solenoid. With the valve control unable to operate correctly, the engine may idle roughly and lose some power, but it's an electrical circuit fault rather than a no-start condition.
Can I keep driving? Usually drivable — the exhaust-side valve control may be stuck, causing rough idle or reduced power; the engine runs, but performance and emissions suffer until repaired.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Rough idle
- Reduced power and sluggish acceleration
- Slightly increased fuel consumption
Common causes
Most likely first
- Short to voltage in the bank 2 exhaust valve control solenoid circuit (high signal)Likely
- Failed exhaust valve control solenoidCommon
- Excessive resistance or an open in the solenoid wiringCommon
- Corroded or loose connector at the solenoidLess often
- Faulty engine control module (ECM), rarelyLess often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and locate the bank 2 exhaust valve control solenoid.
- Inspect the wiring and connector for a short to voltage, corrosion, or damage — a 'circuit high' code means the signal line reads too high.
- Measure the solenoid's resistance against spec; replace it if out of range.
- Test the circuit for shorts, opens, and excessive resistance, and repair as needed.
- If the solenoid and wiring test good, evaluate the ECM. Clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0086?+
Can I just clear P0086?+
Related codes
Often seen with P0086
Read & clear P0086 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.