P0027

Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Range/Performance Bank 1

Q: Is it safe to drive with P0027?

Short trips are usually fine, but the exhaust cam timing is off, which raises emissions and can worsen. Have it checked before a long drive or an emissions test.

Q: Can I just clear P0027?

It returns unless the solenoid, oil flow, or wiring is corrected. This is a range/performance code, so start with oil condition and the control solenoid.

Variable valve timing Generic OBD-II High

What it means

P0027 means the exhaust camshaft (valve) control solenoid on bank 1 isn't performing within its expected range — the commanded valve timing and the actual result don't match. It's often a dirty or sticking solenoid or restricted oil flow rather than a broken wire. Expect rough running, slightly reduced power, and higher emissions until it's corrected.

High

Can I keep driving? Drivable, but keep it short — mistimed valves raise emissions and can worsen; start with oil condition and the control solenoid.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

256

scans in the past year

Found in

<0.1%

of scans

0.1%

of scans that found faults

Appears alongside · share of P0027 scans

B1066in 41.8% of scans

U0127in 34.0% of scans

B1A1Din 27.3% 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

Check-engine light on
Rough idle
Mild loss of power
Higher emissions or a failed emissions test
Reduced fuel economy

Common causes

Most likely first

Dirty or sticking exhaust valve control (oil-control) solenoidLikely
Dirty oil, clogged oil passages, or low oil pressureCommon
Wiring or connector fault at the solenoidCommon
Worn variable-cam-timing phaserLess often
Failed ECM driver (rare)Less often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Check oil level and condition; change oil and filter with the correct grade.
Scan and record freeze-frame data.
Remove, test, and clean the exhaust valve control solenoid.
Check the solenoid's wiring and resistance against spec.
Inspect the oil passages and screen; replace the solenoid if it's faulty. Clear and re-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0027?+

Short trips are usually fine, but the exhaust cam timing is off, which raises emissions and can worsen. Have it checked before a long drive or an emissions test.

Can I just clear P0027?+

It returns unless the solenoid, oil flow, or wiring is corrected. This is a range/performance code, so start with oil condition and the control solenoid.

Read & clear P0027 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