Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
Bank 1 has a Slow Response in B Camshaft Position
What does that mean?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic code that applies to all OBD-II vehicles with variable valve/cam timing. This includes vehicles from Subaru, Dodge, VW, Audi, Jeep, GMC, Chevrolet, Saturn, Chrysler, Ford, etc. The exact repair steps may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
Many modern vehicles use variable valve timing (VVT) to improve engine performance and fuel economy. In a VVT system, the powertrain control module (PCM) controls solenoid-operated oil control valves. These valves apply oil pressure to an actuator mounted between the camshaft and timing chain sprocket. The actuator then changes the angular position, or phase change, of the camshaft. A camshaft position sensor is used to monitor the camshaft position.
A camshaft position slow response code is set when the actual camshaft position does not match the desired position during camshaft phase changes as determined by the PCM.
In trouble code descriptions, the letter “A” indicates the intake, left, or front camshaft, while the letter “B” indicates the exhaust, right, or rear camshaft. Bank 1 refers to the side of the engine that contains the #1 cylinder, while bank 2 refers to the opposite bank. If the engine is an inline or straight design, there is only one bank.
Code P000B is set when the PCM detects a slow response in the camshaft position phase change from bank 1 circuit “B”. This code is related to codes P000A, P000C, and P000D.
What is the severity of this DTC?
The severity of this code is moderate to severe. It is recommended to address this code as soon as possible.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P000B trouble code may include:
What are some possible causes of the code?
Possible causes for this code may include:
An example of a camshaft position (CMP) sensor:
What are some P000B troubleshooting steps?
Begin by checking the engine oil level and condition. If the oil is okay, visually inspect the camshaft position sensor, oil control solenoid, and corresponding wiring for any loose connections or damage. If damage is found, repair as necessary, clear the code, and monitor for its return. Next, check for any technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to this issue. If no TSBs are found, proceed with step-by-step diagnosis of the system.
The following is a generalized procedure, as testing for this code varies between vehicles. For accurate testing, refer to the manufacturer’s diagnostic flow chart.
Before proceeding, consult the factory wiring diagrams to determine the wire connections. Autozone offers free online repair manuals for many vehicles, and ALLDATA offers single vehicle subscriptions.
Test The Camshaft Position Sensor
Most camshaft position sensors are either Hall Effect sensors or permanent magnet sensors. A Hall Effect sensor has three wires: reference, signal, and ground. A permanent magnet sensor has two wires: signal and ground.
Test The Sensor Circuit
Test The Oil Control Solenoid
Remove the solenoid connector and use a digital multimeter set to ohms to check the internal resistance of the solenoid. Connect the meter between the solenoid B+ terminal and the solenoid ground terminal. Compare the resistance measurement to the factory repair specifications. If the meter displays a reading that is out of specification or out of limits (OL) indicating an open circuit, the solenoid should be replaced. It is also recommended to visually inspect the solenoid screen for any metal debris.
Check The Oil Control Solenoid Circuit
Check the timing chain and VVT actuators
If everything checks out up to this point, the problem may be with the timing chain, corresponding components, or VVT actuators. Remove the necessary components to access the timing chain and actuators. Check the chain for excess play, broken guides, and/or tensioners. Check the actuators for any visible damage, such as worn teeth.
