P0029

Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Range/Performance Bank 2

Q: Is it safe to drive with P0029?

Generally yes for the short term, though performance and smoothness suffer. Repair it before the valve control drifts further out of range.

Q: Can I just clear P0029?

It returns once the solenoid is commanded again and can't meet its target. Fix the oil supply, wiring, or solenoid first.

Variable valve timing / lift Generic OBD-II High

What it means

P0029 means the exhaust valve control solenoid on bank 2 isn't performing within its expected range — the ECM commands it but the response is off. Because these solenoids are oil-actuated, low or dirty oil is a common trigger alongside a weak solenoid or its wiring. It affects running quality and power, not starting.

High

Can I keep driving? Usually yes — expect rough running or reduced power; a valve-control performance fault won't normally leave you stranded.

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
Rough or unstable idle
Reduced power or acceleration
Slightly poorer fuel economy

Common causes

Most likely first

Failing exhaust valve control solenoid on bank 2Likely
Low or dirty engine oil restricting the oil-actuated solenoidCommon
Damaged or corroded wiring in the solenoid circuitCommon
Loose or poor connector at the solenoidLess often
ECM fault (least likely)Less often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Read freeze-frame data to capture the operating conditions.
Check engine oil level and condition first — these solenoids are oil-actuated and sludge affects response.
Inspect the bank 2 solenoid connector and wiring for damage or corrosion.
Test the solenoid's resistance and command it with a scan tool to confirm it responds.
Replace the solenoid if it fails to perform; consider the ECM only after the rest checks out.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0029?+

Generally yes for the short term, though performance and smoothness suffer. Repair it before the valve control drifts further out of range.

Can I just clear P0029?+

It returns once the solenoid is commanded again and can't meet its target. Fix the oil supply, wiring, or solenoid first.

Read & clear P0029 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