P0010: "A" Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 1)
The engine computer has found an electrical problem in the circuit for the bank 1 "A" cam timing solenoid, usually the intake cam.
What P0010 means
Most modern engines use variable valve timing to shift the camshafts slightly as the engine runs. The engine computer pulses an oil control solenoid, which sends engine oil pressure to a phaser on the end of the camshaft. That phaser rotates the cam ahead or behind the crank. Bank 1 "A" usually means the intake cam on the cylinder 1 side. RepairPal explains that when the camshaft does not respond as the computer requests, or in this case when the actuator circuit is open, P0010 sets. Because this is a circuit code, it points to the electrical side first: a solenoid with a broken coil, an open or shorted wire, or a connector full of oil. RepairPal lists wiring, the actuator and the computer as causes. You may notice rough idle, less power and lower mileage, and KBB mentions engine rattle on some vehicles. Shops measure solenoid resistance, check the power and control wires, and command the solenoid with a scan tool to confirm it clicks.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Rough idle or stalling
- Reduced power and acceleration
- Worse fuel economy
- Rattle or ticking from the front of the engine on some engines
Most common causes
- Failed variable valve timing (oil control) solenoid
- Open or shorted solenoid wiring
- Corroded or oil filled connector
- Variable valve timing actuator failure
- Engine computer driver fault (rare)
What to check yourself first
Find the cam timing solenoid on the front or top of the bank 1 cylinder head and check its connector for oil or corrosion. Measure the solenoid resistance with a meter if you have specs. Check the oil level and condition.
Typical fixes and what they cost
| Fix | Typical cost | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Replace variable valve timing (oil control) solenoid | $469-$594 | Most P0010 repairs are a solenoid or its connector. |
| Electrical diagnosis to find a wiring or connector fault | $122-$179 | RepairPal lists wiring issues as a common cause. |
| Oil and filter change with the correct oil | $160-$188 | RepairPal lists an oil and filter change as a common first repair. Use the exact oil viscosity your engine calls for. |
| Replace engine control module (ECM/PCM) | $1,122-$1,192 | Only if the computer output is proven bad. |
Typical US price ranges for parts and labor, not quotes. Your shop should confirm the cause with a diagnostic before replacing parts.
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Related codes
- P0011 "A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)
- P0012 "A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 1)
- P0013 "B" Camshaft Position - Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 1)
- P0020 "A" Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 2)
- P0016 Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)