| DTC Data Sheet | |
| System | Powertrain |
| Standard | SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 |
| Fault type | Circuit |
| Official meaning | B Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 2) |
Bank 2 exhaust camshaft VVT actuator circuit is open or has an electrical fault. Mirror code to P0013 on the opposite bank.
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P0023 Quick Answer
Bank 2 exhaust camshaft VVT actuator circuit is open or has an electrical fault. Mirror code to P0013 on the opposite bank.
What Does P0023 Mean?
B Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 2). Bank 2 exhaust camshaft VVT actuator circuit is open or has an electrical fault. Mirror code to P0013 on the opposite bank.
Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Rough idle
- Slight loss of power
- Higher emissions on bank 2
Common Causes
- Failed bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid
- Open or shorted wiring on the bank 2 exhaust solenoid circuit
- Connector oil contamination at the solenoid
- Low engine oil disabling VVT
- PCM driver failure (rare)
Diagnosis Steps
You’ll need a scan tool capable of reading live powertrain data, a digital multimeter, and access to the wiring diagram for the specific platform.
- Check oil level and condition.
- Read commanded vs actual bank 2 exhaust cam phase.
- Resistance-check the bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid.
- Inspect for oil-contaminated connector.
Possible Fixes
- Replace bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid
- Connector repair
- Oil service
Can I Still Drive With P0023?
The vehicle will usually still drive with P0023 stored, but performance, drivability, or emissions will be degraded. The PCM may inhibit emissions monitors and limit closed-loop fueling adjustments. Drive to a workshop, but don’t ignore the code long-term.
How Serious Is This Code?
P0023 is a moderate-priority fault. It will not prevent the engine from running, but unaddressed it can cascade into related faults or damage downstream components such as the catalytic converter. Address within a few drive cycles.
Brand-Specific Guides for P0023
Manufacturer-specific diagnostic procedures with factory data and pin-level details for vehicles where this code commonly sets:
FAQ
Will P0023 clear itself?
Only if the underlying fault was intermittent and self-corrected. Most root causes are persistent and require physical repair.
Can I clear P0023 without fixing it?
You can clear it with a scan tool, but it will return as soon as the fault condition reappears — typically within one or two drive cycles.
Is P0023 related to other codes?
Often, yes. Adjacent codes in the same circuit or system frequently set together — if P0023 is present, scan for related codes and address them as a group.