Powertrain, generic · Fuel and air metering, auxiliary emission controls

P003C A Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Performance/Stuck Off Bank 1

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleRequired
Limp modePossible

The camshaft profile actuator A switches the intake camshaft (camshaft A) on bank 1 between fixed cam profiles, usually a low-lift base profile and a high-lift profile. In most designs the unactuated state ("off") is the base profile; which profile counts as "on" is defined by the manufacturer. The control module does not need a position sensor to check the switchover: it detects the actual profile indirectly, for example from oil pressure in the switching gallery, intake pressure per cylinder or crankshaft speed fluctuations. This code is set when the switchover is commanded but the camshaft stays on the base profile, or switches too slowly or incompletely. The engine then lacks power at higher engine speed.

Likely causes

Oil level too low, wrong viscosity or sludged oil, so switching pressure is missing
Profile switching solenoid sticking or its screen clogged
Oil supply to the switching elements leaking or restricted, e.g. worn seals
Locking pin in tappet or rocker arm, or sliding cam piece, sticking
Consequence of a circuit fault of the same actuator

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Lack of power at higher engine speed
  • Reduced power mode on some vehicles

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumDIY possible
Parts and labour€80–3,500
Time0–10 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

camshaft profile actuator intake bank1engine oilvalve train

Related codes

P003DP003EP005AP001AP001BP001C

References: law.cornell.edu, patents.google.com, patents.google.com, patents.google.com.