P0085 – Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Low Bank 2

P0085 is an OBD-II trouble code that can make you nervous when it pops up on your scan tool, but it’s usually manageable if you understand what it means. This code points to an electrical problem in the exhaust valve timing control circuit on Bank 2, not necessarily a completely failed engine. In many cases, you’re dealing with a bad oil control solenoid, wiring issue, or poor oil maintenance. In this guide, you’ll learn what P0085 means, common symptoms, how to diagnose it, and what it typically costs to fix.

What Does P0085 Mean?

P0085 stands for “Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit High (Bank 2).” Your engine uses variable valve timing (VVT) to adjust how the exhaust valves open and close. The ECU controls this using an exhaust valve control solenoid (also called an oil control valve). When the ECU sees higher-than-expected voltage or an open circuit on that solenoid for Bank 2, it sets P0085 and usually turns on the check engine light.

Bank 2 is the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder 1 (on V6, V8, and some flat engines). On inline engines, Bank 2 may not apply, so this code is more common on V-type engines. The “circuit high” part means the ECU is seeing too much voltage or no load, often from a broken wire, corroded connector, or failed solenoid.

Quick Reference

• Code: P0085 – Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit High (Bank 2)
• Severity: Moderate – can affect performance and emissions
• Common causes: Bad solenoid, wiring issues, poor oil condition
• Typical symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, poor fuel economy
• Risk: Long-term driving can damage catalytic converters or engine

Real-World Example / Field Notes

In the shop, I see P0085 a lot on higher-mileage V6 SUVs and sedans that have stretched oil change intervals. A typical case: customer complains of a rough idle and poor fuel economy, check engine light on. Scan shows P0085. Live data reveals the exhaust cam on Bank 2 not following the commanded angle. Pull the Bank 2 VVT solenoid and it’s packed with sludge from old oil. A new solenoid and a couple of short-interval oil changes usually clear it up. On others, I’ve found rodent-chewed wiring to the solenoid causing the “circuit high” condition.

Symptoms of P0085

• Check engine light on: The MIL will almost always illuminate when P0085 is stored.
• Rough idle: Incorrect exhaust cam timing can cause unstable idle or slight shaking.
• Loss of power: You may notice sluggish acceleration, especially at low to mid RPM.
• Poor fuel economy: Incorrect valve timing reduces combustion efficiency and MPG.
• Hesitation or surging: The engine can feel inconsistent when the ECU tries to adjust timing.
• Hard starting: In some cases, hot or cold starts become more difficult.
• Increased emissions: You might fail an emissions test due to timing and mixture issues.

Common Causes of P0085

Most Common Causes

• Failed exhaust valve control solenoid (Bank 2): The internal coil can open or short, causing a “circuit high” signal to the ECU.
• Damaged or corroded wiring/connectors: Broken wires, poor grounds, or corroded pins at the solenoid connector can create high circuit voltage.
• Sludged or dirty engine oil: Thick, contaminated oil can restrict the solenoid’s internal passages, causing abnormal operation and related codes.
• Poor electrical connection: Loose connectors or previous repairs done poorly can cause intermittent high voltage readings.

Less Common Causes

• ECU (PCM) fault: Rare, but a failing driver circuit in the ECU can misread or mis-control the solenoid.
• Incorrect or low oil viscosity: Using the wrong oil grade can affect VVT performance, especially in cold weather.
• Internal engine issues: Severe sludge buildup in oil galleries or cam phaser problems can contribute, though they usually throw additional codes.
• Aftermarket modifications: Poorly installed remote starters, alarm systems, or engine harness mods can damage or tap into the VVT circuit.

Diagnosis: Step-by-Step Guide

To diagnose P0085 correctly, you’ll want a basic scan tool (preferably one that can read live data and Mode $06), a digital multimeter, a wiring diagram for your vehicle, and basic hand tools. Access to a service manual or OEM repair information is very helpful for pinouts and specifications.

1. Confirm the code: Connect your scan tool, read all stored and pending codes, and note any related VVT or camshaft position codes (such as P0014, P0024, etc.). Clear the codes and see if P0085 returns on a short test drive.
2. Check engine oil: Verify the oil level and condition. If the oil is very dark, thick, or smells burnt, plan on an oil and filter change. Use the correct viscosity recommended by the manufacturer.
3. Visual inspection: Locate the Bank 2 exhaust valve control solenoid. Inspect the wiring harness and connector for damage, rubbing, oil saturation, or corrosion. Repair any obvious issues first.
4. Wiggle test: With the engine idling and the scan tool monitoring the VVT data, gently move the harness near the solenoid. If the readings or idle change, you likely have an intermittent wiring issue.
5. Check solenoid resistance: With the key off, disconnect the solenoid connector. Use a multimeter to measure resistance across the solenoid terminals. Compare the reading to spec (often in the 6–14 ohm range, but check your manual). Infinite resistance indicates an open circuit (common cause of “circuit high”).
6. Verify power and ground: With the key on (engine off), back-probe the connector to confirm proper voltage supply and good ground. A missing power or ground can mimic a failed solenoid.
7. Command the solenoid: If your scan tool supports bi-directional control, command the exhaust VVT solenoid on and off while watching camshaft angle and listening for engine response. No change may indicate a stuck or dead solenoid.
8. Inspect for sludge: On some engines, you can remove the solenoid and visually check for sludge or debris in the oil passages. Heavy buildup points to poor maintenance and may require cleaning or replacement.
9. Check ECU outputs (advanced): If power, ground, and solenoid all test good, you may need to check the ECU driver circuit or use an oscilloscope to verify control signals. This is usually best left to a professional.

Pro tip: Always compare Bank 2 data to Bank 1. If Bank 1’s exhaust VVT system is working normally, it gives you a good baseline for what voltage, resistance, and cam angle should look like.

Possible Fixes & Repair Costs

The exact repair for P0085 depends on what you find during diagnosis, but most fixes are straightforward. A common repair is replacing the Bank 2 exhaust valve control solenoid, cleaning the connector, and performing an oil change with the correct viscosity. Wiring repairs may involve splicing in new sections or replacing a damaged pigtail. In rare cases, ECU replacement or internal engine work is needed.

Typical repair costs vary by vehicle and shop rate:

• Oil and filter change: $40–$120
• Exhaust valve control solenoid replacement: $150–$450 parts and labor
• Wiring/connector repair: $100–$300 depending on access and complexity
• ECU diagnosis/programming or replacement: $300–$1,000+ (uncommon for this code)

Costs are affected by vehicle make, engine layout (some Bank 2 solenoids are harder to reach), local labor rates, and whether additional issues like sludge cleanup or cam phaser problems are found.

Can I Still Drive With P0085?

In many cases, you can still drive with P0085 for a short period, especially if the only noticeable symptom is a check engine light and mild performance loss. However, it’s not something you should ignore. Incorrect exhaust valve timing can increase exhaust temperatures, stress the catalytic converters, and cause the engine to run less efficiently. If you experience rough running, stalling, or severe loss of power, avoid driving and have the vehicle inspected as soon as possible.

What Happens If You Ignore P0085?

If you ignore P0085 long term, you risk accelerated wear on the engine and exhaust system. Poor valve timing can lead to higher emissions, overheating of the catalytic converters, carbon buildup, and possible misfires. Over time, what started as a relatively simple solenoid or wiring repair can turn into much more expensive problems.

Last updated: February 13, 2026

Vehicles Commonly Affected by P0085

P0085 shows up most often on V6 and V8 engines with variable valve timing. In the real world, I see it frequently on:

• Honda/Acura: V6 models with VTEC/VTC systems (Accord, Pilot, MDX, TL, etc.).
• Toyota/Lexus: V6 and V8 engines with VVT-i (Camry, Highlander, Tacoma, 4Runner, RX, GX).
• Nissan/Infiniti: VQ-series V6 engines (Altima, Maxima, Pathfinder, G35/G37, FX35).
• GM: V6 and V8 engines with VVT (Equinox, Traverse, Silverado, Sierra, Camaro).
• Hyundai/Kia: V6 engines in SUVs and sedans with CVVT systems.

That said, any modern engine with dual VVT and a Bank 2 exhaust cam can potentially log P0085, especially if oil changes are neglected.