This code indicates an electrical malfunction in the circuit controlling the intake valve timing solenoid on Bank 1 of the engine. The powertrain control module has detected that the voltage or resistance in this circuit is outside the expected range, preventing proper variable valve timing operation.
The solenoid itself can suffer an internal open or short circuit, rendering it unable to regulate oil pressure for valve timing adjustment.
Corroded, chafed, or disconnected wiring and connectors in the solenoid circuit can cause an open circuit or a short to ground or power.
Insufficient oil level or contaminated oil can prevent the solenoid from actuating properly, sometimes triggering circuit codes if the valve sticks mechanically.
Sludge or debris can block the oil passages feeding the solenoid, causing it to mechanically seize and draw abnormal electrical current.
A failure in the powertrain control module's internal driver circuit is a very rare cause, typically only considered after all wiring and solenoid components are verified.
It is generally not recommended for long distances. While the vehicle might still run, variable valve timing will be disabled, which can lead to poor performance, reduced fuel economy, and potential engine damage over time.
No, that is a common misconception. The PCM is almost never the cause of this code. The failure is almost always a bad solenoid, wiring issue, or an oil supply problem, and the PCM should only be suspected after everything else is completely ruled out.
Bank 1 refers to the side of the engine that contains the number one cylinder. On inline engines with only one cylinder bank, there is only one intake valve control solenoid, which is Bank 1 by default.
Yes, if the root cause is dirty or degraded engine oil causing the solenoid to stick or malfunction. An oil and filter change, sometimes combined with a system flush, can resolve the issue if caught early enough.