P003E

A Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Performance/Stuck Off Bank 2

Q: Is it safe to drive with P003E?

Yes for normal driving, though you'll notice less top-end power. Because a stuck actuator can be oil-related, don't ignore it — check the oil and repair it soon.

Q: Can I just clear P003E?

It returns as soon as the actuator fails to respond again. Address the oil, actuator, or wiring rather than only resetting it.

Variable valve lift / cam control Generic OBD-II High

What it means

P003E means the 'A' camshaft profile (variable valve lift) actuator on bank 2 isn't performing as commanded and appears stuck in the 'off' (default) position. The engine stays in its low-lift cam mode and can't switch to the high-performance profile, so you lose top-end power. The check-engine light comes on; it isn't a no-start fault.

High

Can I keep driving? Driveable but down on power — the engine is stuck in its low-lift cam mode, so it can't reach its high-performance profile. Fix it to restore full power.

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
Noticeable loss of high-rpm power
Engine stuck in economy/low-lift mode
Slightly rough running under load on some engines

Common causes

Most likely first

Camshaft profile actuator mechanically stuck or seized offLikely
Low oil pressure or dirty oil preventing engagement (oil-actuated systems)Common
Failed actuator solenoidCommon
Wiring or connector fault in the actuator circuitLess often
Failed ECM driverLess often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Read freeze-frame data and check engine oil level and condition first — low or dirty oil is a common cause on oil-actuated cam systems.
Command the actuator with a scan tool and watch for a response.
Test the actuator solenoid resistance and inspect its wiring and connector.
Inspect the actuator and its oil passage/screen for sticking or clogging.
If everything tests good, suspect the ECM driver. Clear and re-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P003E?+

Yes for normal driving, though you'll notice less top-end power. Because a stuck actuator can be oil-related, don't ignore it — check the oil and repair it soon.

Can I just clear P003E?+

It returns as soon as the actuator fails to respond again. Address the oil, actuator, or wiring rather than only resetting it.

Read & clear P003E 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