P001B

A Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Circuit Low Bank 1

Q: Is it safe to drive with P001B?

Generally yes for short trips — the engine usually runs on a default cam profile with reduced high-rpm power. Repair it soon so you're not driving with a disabled valvetrain feature.

Q: Can I just clear P001B?

It will come back until the low-voltage circuit fault or solenoid is fixed. This is an electrical circuit code, so clearing alone won't help.

Variable valve timing Generic OBD-II High

What it means

P001B means the ECM has detected low voltage — a short to ground or an open — in the control circuit for the bank 1 camshaft profile actuator, the solenoid that switches the valve-lift or cam profile. It's an electrical fault, usually in the wiring, connector, or solenoid. The engine typically defaults to one profile, so you may notice weaker power at higher rpm.

High

Can I keep driving? Usually drivable — the engine typically defaults to one cam profile, so you may notice weaker high-rpm power. Fix it soon to restore full performance and clear the fault.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

scans in the past year

Found in

<0.1%

of scans

<0.1%

of scans that found faults

Figures reflect only diagnostic scans recorded through our own apps and tools. Cars are typically scanned because a symptom or warning light prompted it, so these counts describe our scan records — not the incidence of faults in any model, and not the quality, reliability, or safety of any vehicle. No comparison between manufacturers or models is implied. All trademarks belong to their respective owners; no affiliation or endorsement is implied.

Common symptoms

What you'll notice

Check-engine light on
Loss of power at higher rpm or when the cam profile should switch
Rough running or slightly reduced performance
Reduced fuel economy

Common causes

Most likely first

Short to ground or open in the actuator control circuit wiringLikely
Corroded, loose, or damaged connector at the cam profile actuatorCommon
Faulty camshaft profile actuator solenoid, bank 1Common
Failed control driver in the engine control module (rare)Less often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Scan and read freeze-frame data to confirm the circuit and conditions.
Inspect the actuator connector and wiring for a short to ground, chafing, or corrosion.
Measure the solenoid's resistance and compare against specification.
Repair or replace damaged wiring; replace the cam profile actuator solenoid if it fails testing.
If wiring and solenoid are good, check the ECM driver as a last resort.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P001B?+

Generally yes for short trips — the engine usually runs on a default cam profile with reduced high-rpm power. Repair it soon so you're not driving with a disabled valvetrain feature.

Can I just clear P001B?+

It will come back until the low-voltage circuit fault or solenoid is fixed. This is an electrical circuit code, so clearing alone won't help.

Read & clear P001B yourself

Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.

▶ Get it on Google Play

✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX