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P0023

B Camshaft Position Actuator A Control Circuit/Open Bank 2

Variable valve timing Generic OBD-II High

What it means

P0023 means the engine computer has detected an open or faulty electrical circuit to the Bank 2 "B" camshaft timing actuator — the VVT oil control solenoid. It's usually a wiring, connector, or solenoid fault. Variable valve timing on that bank stops responding, so the engine may idle rough and lose a little power.

High

Can I keep driving? Generally safe to keep driving — expect rough idle and slightly reduced power; repair it so variable valve timing works correctly.

Real-world scan data

Seen in
118
scans in the past year
Found in
<0.1%
of scans
<0.1%
of scans that found faults

Appears alongside · share of P0023 scans

P0013in 75.4% of scans
P0010in 72.9% of scans
P0020in 71.2% of scans

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

Common causes

Most likely first

  1. Faulty camshaft actuator / VVT oil control solenoid (Bank 2)
  2. Open or shorted wiring in the solenoid control circuit
  3. Loose or corroded connector at the solenoid
  4. ECM control-driver fault (least likely)

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

  1. Inspect the Bank 2 VVT solenoid connector and wiring for damage or corrosion.
  2. Measure the solenoid resistance against spec; replace it if out of range.
  3. Check the control wire for continuity/an open back to the ECM.
  4. Repair the wiring or replace the solenoid, clear the code, and road-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0023?+
Yes, generally — it usually just causes rough idle and slightly reduced power, not a safety issue. Still, get it fixed so valve timing works properly and emissions stay in check.
Can I just clear P0023?+
It'll clear but return quickly, because the ECM keeps testing the actuator circuit. Repair the wiring or solenoid first.

Related codes

Read & clear P0023 yourself

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

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