P2091

B Camshaft Position Actuator Control Circuit High Bank 1

Q: Is it safe to drive with P2091?

Short, gentle trips are usually okay, but rough running and cam-timing errors can worsen. Have it repaired soon and avoid hard acceleration.

Q: Can I just clear P2091?

It will return until the actuator circuit or solenoid is fixed, since the ECM monitors this control circuit each drive.

Variable valve timing Generic OBD-II Medium

What it means

P2091 means the engine control module has seen high voltage (a likely short-to-power or open) in the control circuit for the 'B' (typically exhaust) camshaft position actuator on bank 1. This actuator adjusts variable valve timing, so a fault usually causes rougher running, reduced power, and sometimes harder starting — not a guaranteed no-start. Clean engine oil and intact wiring are key to a fix.

Medium

Can I keep driving? Usually drivable, but expect rougher running, reduced power, and possibly harder starting; repair soon and avoid hard driving.

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 idle or hesitation
Reduced power and lower fuel economy
Occasional hard starting or a rattle at start-up

Common causes

Most likely first

Short-to-voltage or open in the camshaft actuator (VVT/VCT) 'B' control circuit wiringLikely
Failed camshaft position actuator / oil control solenoidCommon
Corroded or loose connector at the solenoidCommon
Low or dirty engine oil, or a clogged solenoid screen, affecting the phaserLess often
Faulty engine control module (ECM/PCM)Less often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Check engine oil level and condition first, since VVT/VCT phasers depend on clean oil pressure.
Inspect the actuator solenoid connector and wiring for a short-to-power, open, or corrosion; repair as needed.
Measure the solenoid's resistance against spec and replace it if out of range.
Clean or replace the oil control solenoid screen if it's clogged.
If wiring, oil, and solenoid are good, have the ECM/PCM evaluated. Clear and re-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P2091?+

Short, gentle trips are usually okay, but rough running and cam-timing errors can worsen. Have it repaired soon and avoid hard acceleration.

Can I just clear P2091?+

It will return until the actuator circuit or solenoid is fixed, since the ECM monitors this control circuit each drive.

Read & clear P2091 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