P000A A Camshaft Position Slow Response Bank 1
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
A Camshaft Position Slow Response Bank 1
What does that mean?
This generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) typically applies to all OBD-II vehicles equipped with variable valve/cam timing. That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Subaru, Dodge, VW, Audi, Jeep, GMC, Chevrolet, Saturn, Chrysler, Ford, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on make/model.
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. In turn, the actuator then alters the angular position, or phase change, of the camshaft. A camshaft position sensor is used to monitor camshaft position.
A camshaft position slow response code is set when actual camshaft position does not match the position desired by the PCM during camshaft phase changes.
As it pertains to trouble code descriptions, the "A" indicates the intake, left or front camshaft. On the other hand, "B" indicates the exhaust, right or rear camshaft. Bank 1 is the side of the engine that contains the #1 cylinder, whereas bank 2 is the opposite bank. If the engine is an inline or straight design, there is only one bank.
Code P000A is set when the PCM detects a slow response in camshaft position phase change from bank 1 circuit "A". This code is related to P000B, P000C, and P000D.
What is the severity of this DTC?
The severity of this code is moderate to severe. It's a good idea to address this code as soon as possible.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P000A trouble code may include:
Illuminated check engine light Increased emissionsPoor engine performance Engine noiseWhat are some possible causes of the code?
Causes for this code may include:
Improper oil supply Faulty camshaft position sensor Failed oil control valve Failed VVT actuator Timing chain problems Wiring problems Faulty PCMAn example of a camshaft position (CMP) sensor:
What are some P000A troubleshooting steps?
Begin by checking the engine oil level and condition. If the oil is OK, perform a visual inspection of the camshaft position sensor, oil control solenoid, and corresponding wiring. Look for loose connections, damaged wiring, etc. If damage is found, repair as necessary, clear the code and see if it returns. Next, check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) regarding the issue. If nothing is found, you will need to move forward to step-by-step diagnosis of the system.
The following is a generalized procedure, as testing for this code varies between vehicles. To accurately test the system, you'll want to refer to the manufacture's diagnostic flow chart.
Before proceeding, you'll want to consult the factory wiring diagrams to determine which wires are which. 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 going to it: reference, signal, and ground. On the other hand, a permanent magnet sensor will only have two wires: signal and ground.
Hall Effect sensor: Determine which wire is the signal return wire. Then, attach a digital multimeter (DMM) to it using a back-probe test lead. Turn the DMM to the DC volts setting and connect the black meter lead to chassis ground. Crank the engine – if the sensor is operating properly, you should see a fluctuating reading on the meter. If not, the sensRead: 63
