What is the P002A fault code?
The P002A fault code, applicable to all car manufacturers, means “B Camshaft Profile Control Circuit/Open (Bank 1)“.
Background Information: The camshaft controls the opening and closing of the valves. In a variable valve timing system, the electronic camshaft adjusting valve (or oil control valve, OCV) adjusts the camshaft angle by changing the oil pressure to the camshaft adjuster (mechanical type) according to instructions from the engine control module (ECM), ensuring that the valves open and close at optimal times. This optimizes engine efficiency and power across all engine speeds. This fault code indicates a malfunction in the B (exhaust/right/rear) camshaft profile control circuit.
Symptoms of the P002A fault code may include:
- Low power
- Poor driving performance
- Reduced fuel economy
- Abnormal throttle response
- Generally decreased efficiency
- Changed power band
Causes of the P002A code may include:
- Insufficient oil maintenance
- Incorrect oil
- Contaminated oil
- Faulty oil solenoid
- Stuck valve
- Broken wiring
- Electrical short circuit (internal or mechanical)
- ECM (Engine Control Module) problem
How to diagnose a P002A fault code?
Technicians typically begin by connecting the vehicle to an OBD-II scanner to confirm the code’s presence and check for other codes. This data, along with freeze scans, is recorded, and the codes are then cleared to see if they reappear. Next, wiring and connectors should be visually inspected for looseness, corrosion, or short circuits. Special tools may be used to test the camshaft sensors. Additional tests on the crankshaft and camshaft components may help locate the problem, while also checking the timing chain or timing belt. If there is a physical problem with the timing belt, it may cause timing misalignment, triggering fault code P002A.
How to fix P002A fault code? Fixing this code may require:
- Timing chain or belt tensioner replacement * Camshaft sensor wiring repair
- Camshaft sensor replacement
- Timing chain or belt replacement
How serious is the P002A code?
This is a fairly serious code because it can affect engine operation and even starting ability. Furthermore, if the vehicle experiences a power loss due to the fault, this can pose a danger on the road when you need to move quickly to avoid an accident. Even if you don’t have any obvious symptoms, you should investigate this code as soon as possible using a car fault code reader.