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

P0086 Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit High Bank 2

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleRequired
Limp modeNo

A solenoid valve on the cylinder head controls oil flow for the variable valve control on the exhaust side of bank 2. Depending on the manufacturer it drives a camshaft phaser (for example on Nissan engines) or a valve lift changeover (for example on Subaru engines). This code family reports electrical faults in its control circuit; P0086 means the voltage in the control circuit is too high, typically a short to battery voltage. Other manufacturers report the same valve under the "camshaft position actuator" codes instead. Valve control is then switched off or stays in its base position. Bank 2 exists only on V and boxer engines.

Likely causes

Control wire shorted to battery voltage
Solenoid coil faulty
Water or corrosion in the connector
Output driver in the engine control module faulty

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Less power, especially at high engine speed with lift changeover
  • Rough idle possible
  • Follow-up codes for camshaft timing or misfire possible

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumDIY possible
Parts and labour€50–350
Time0.5–1.5 h

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

Parts involved

valve control solenoid exhaust bank2valve control solenoid wiringengine control module

Related codes

P0084P0085P0080P0029P0023

References: law.cornell.edu, automotivetechinfo.com, en.wikipedia.org.