P005C

  • Powertrain
  • Generic (SAE)
  • Emissions
SeveritySeverity level 3 of 5: Diagnose soon.

Diagnose soon

Usually safe to drive short distances, but the fault will not clear itself and can worsen or fail an emissions test.

Standard definition

B Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Performance/Stuck Off Bank 2

This code is in our catalogue but has not yet been through editorial review, so the guidance below is limited to what our structured data supports. We publish deeper diagnostic content only after a code has been reviewed — here is why.

In plain English

Exhaust cam profile actuator A on bank 2 stuck disengaged. Same fault pattern as P003C but on the exhaust cam. The cam phaser actuator adjusts intake/exhaust timing under load — a stuck or slow phaser kills mid-rpm torque and can throw correlation codes between cam and crank.

A trouble code records what a control module measured. It does not identify which part failed. Test before replacing anything.

Can I keep driving?
Safe to drive
Usually safe to drive short distances, but the fault will not clear itself and can worsen or fail an emissions test.
Urgency
Diagnose soon
Will it pass emissions
No
Check engine light
Solid
Clearing the light
A completed drive cycle is normally required before the monitor re-runs and the light can clear.
Symptoms you may notice
  • Power loss especially in mid-rpm range
  • Possible rough idle or stalling
  • Increased fuel consumption

Many vehicles show no symptom at all beyond the warning light. The absence of a symptom does not mean the fault is not real.

Likely causes
#CauseHow oftenComponent
1Oil control valve stuckVery common
2Carbon or debris buildup preventing free movementOccasional
3Component wear with age - mechanical playOccasional

Ordering reflects how often each cause is responsible in general, not a probability for your vehicle. Confirm by testing.

Components involved
  • Cam Profile Actuator Exhaust
  • Oil Control Valve
Sources
Definition
Generic code set (SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6) via the OBDexopen database, dedicated to the public domain under CC0-1.0.
Diagnostic guidance
Written and reviewed in-house. See our editorial policy.
Review status
Awaiting review

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