OBD II Codes (P0000 - P0099) | P0010 “Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit / Open (Bank 1)”

Meaning:

Code P0010 stands for “A” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1). The code indicates that your car’s primary computer, which is also referred to as the powertrain control module (PCM), perceives a problem with one of the engine’s VVT solenoids.
Code P0010 indicates that the PCM detects a problem with one of the engine’s VVT solenoids.
So how does the camshaft actuator work? The ECM/PCM sends a “pulse width” signal to the solenoid. That means it turns the solenoid on and off fast. The longer the solenoid is on during each pulse, the more oil pressure is delivered to the actuator.
The Cam Sensor (CMP) on the bank being controlled closes the feedback loop so the ECM/PCM can determine how much camshaft advance is needed (depending on engine load, speed, etc.) and how well the camshaft is being controlled by the action of the solenoid.
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The ECM/PCM sets a target (desired) angle for the camshaft and then duty cycles the solenoid, delivering oil pressure to the camshaft actuator within the camshaft drive gear to change the relationship of the gear to the camshaft. If that angle change doesn’t happen, the ECM/PCM increases the solenoid’s duty cycle (turns it on for a larger percentage of the time), attempting to meet that cam angle target. If the duty cycle consistently goes too high (struggling to meet the target), the ECM/PCM sets the P0010 code.
What Does “Bank 1” and “A Camshaft” Mean?
And what about the bank 1 and “A” camshaft portion of the code? Well, the engine is divided into two banks. The side that has cylinder no. 1 is called Bank 1 while the opposite is referred to as Bank 2. “A” cam is the intake camshaft in a Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) engine or the intake camshaft for the number one cylinder in a V engine.
An In-Depth Look at VVT Systems
To better understand what this code means, you’ll need some background information on VVT. While, in the past, valve timing was fixed, most modern vehicles feature VVT technology that can alter the camshaft angle.
Some VVT systems modify the specifications of just the intake or exhaust camshaft, while others modify both. Having this ability allows the technology to improve engine efficiency, reduce emissions, increase engine power, or a combination of these. This is one-way engine designers have maintained engine horsepower output while building smaller, lighter engines.
The individual VVT solenoids/valves feed oil pressure to an actuator (part of the cam drive gear). As stated earlier, the actuator alters camshaft angles on the fly to modify valve timing for optimum performance and efficiency.
It’s worth noting that the VVT system and its components can go by a variety of names. For example, Ford calls its VVT system “Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT)” and its VVT actuators “phasers”. Meanwhile, Hyundai refers to its VVT solenoids as “oil control valves (OCVs)”.

causes:

The Engine Positions System Performance Bank 2 code may have several causes:

• Engine timing out of sync
• Engine oil sludge (from lack of oil changes)
• Worn timing components (chains, gears, guides)
• Crankshaft or camshaft sensor malfunctions
• Wiring damage
• ECM software out of date
• ECM internal damage

Symptoms:

If your vehicle is triggering a P0010 code, here are some of the most common symptoms you may experience:

• Illuminated check engine light
• Engine performance problems such as rough running and lack of acceleration
• Reduce fuel economy
• Fail an emissions inspection
• Rattling noise from the engine

The P0010 fault code may cause your vehicle to have:

Effect caused:

• Lower fuel economy
• Improper engine performance at higher speeds
• Reduced power
• Inability to pass emissions testing

Diagnosis:

P0010 is properly diagnosed with an advanced scan tool capable of factory sensor readings and codes (not just one from your local auto parts store) to start. A qualified technician can read the data from the scan tool to determine when and where the problem occurred or if it is still occurring. They may clear the code from the ECM and test drive the vehicle while monitoring the scan tool data to see if the fault returns or if it is intermittent.
Engine sludge with the oil system is very common for this fault code. It is common to remove the solenoid which the code indicates to inspect the screen filter for sludge and manually activate it with a test probe.
If the fault is intermittent, then a visual inspection of the solenoid or the wiring may produce more results. Otherwise, the vehicle will have to be driven until the problem becomes more persistent.
If the fault returns immediately, the scan tool and information from professional resources should be able to narrow down the problem. Otherwise, a digital voltage scope used to monitor the sensor signals will be required. The signals will indicate what the ECM is seeing and if they are correct.
Based upon the results of the testing, possible clearing of the code(s), and a road test while monitoring the data, further diagnosis may be required. Diagnosis will require multiple tools such as:

• Lower fuel economy
• Improper engine performance at higher speeds
• Reduced power
• Inability to pass emissions testing

Solution:

When it comes to fixing an OBD-II trouble code, there are no “magic bullet” fixes. There are a few possible solutions, depending on what’s causing the code:

• Connect a professional scan tool to verify the code exists.
• Perform research from professional sources for testing and values based upon the code.
• Check for any other fault codes which may be related to the issue and perhaps clear the fault codes to see which fault codes return.
• Analyze scan tool data from the ECM related to the code and road test the vehicle while analyzing the scan tool data from the ECM. Verify the P0010 code returns or the symptoms exists or determine if it is intermittent.
• Visually inspect all the items listed above (screen clogs, wiring, etc.).
• Further diagnose the problem with the special tools listed above if the problem appears to repeat.
• The signals and wiring from the solenoid require analyzing from a digital voltage scope to determine where the problem exists.
• If the signals and scan tool values are within specification, then removal of the timing/front engine cover may be required.
• Verify the timing marks on the crank and camshaft sprockets align.
• Inspect the condition of the timing chain/belt and guides for signs of wear.
• Replace the faulty component found during the above testing.