P001C

A Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Circuit High Bank 1

Q: Is it safe to drive with P001C?

Generally yes, short-term. The variable-lift changeover may not work, so power can be down at higher rpm, but there's no immediate mechanical danger.

Q: Can I just clear P001C?

It returns until the circuit fault is fixed — this is an electrical High code, so look for an open or short to power on the solenoid wire.

Variable valve timing Generic OBD-II High

What it means

P001C is an electrical fault in the bank 1 camshaft profile (variable valve-lift) actuator control circuit. The engine control module sees higher-than-expected voltage, usually from an open circuit or a short to power on the solenoid's control wire. The valve-lift changeover may not engage, causing reduced power and rough running at certain engine speeds.

High

Can I keep driving? Usually drivable, but performance may be down and it won't clear itself — get the actuator circuit checked before it hurts economy or triggers limp mode.

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
Reduced power, especially at higher rpm
Rough running or idle instability
Reduced fuel economy

Common causes

Most likely first

Open circuit or short to power in the actuator control wiring/connector (most likely for a High code)Likely
Failed camshaft profile (valve-lift) actuator solenoidCommon
Corroded or loose connector at the solenoidCommon
Failed ECM driver (rare)Less often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Scan and record freeze-frame data.
Inspect the actuator solenoid connector and wiring for opens or a short to power.
Measure the solenoid's resistance against spec and confirm its power and ground.
Replace the camshaft profile actuator solenoid if it's out of spec.
Only consider the ECM after wiring and the solenoid check out. Clear and re-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P001C?+

Generally yes, short-term. The variable-lift changeover may not work, so power can be down at higher rpm, but there's no immediate mechanical danger.

Can I just clear P001C?+

It returns until the circuit fault is fixed — this is an electrical High code, so look for an open or short to power on the solenoid wire.

Read & clear P001C 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