Fix P0010: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The code P0010: “A” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1) indicates an issue with the camshaft position actuator circuit in engine bank 1. This code can be serious as it relates to the engine’s timing system, which is crucial for the engine’s performance and health.

P0010 quick overview

Meaning	P0010: “A” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)
Is it serious?	Yes, the engine timing is one of most important systems in vehicle
Possible causes	– Sludge or poor quality oil affecting actuator function – Faulty camshaft position actuator (oil control valve) – Wiring or electrical connection issues to the actuator – ECM (Engine Control Module) malfunction or improper signals – Mechanical issues like a stuck actuator
How to diagnose?	Check Engine Oil: Ensure it’s at the correct level and quality. Inspect Wiring/Connections: Look for damaged wires or poor connections. Test Actuator Directly: If accessible, apply power to see if it functions. Evaluate ECM Functionality: Ensure ECM is sending correct signals. Distinguish Mechanical/Electrical Issues: Identify if the problem is due to a mechanical part or an electrical fault.

In simple terms, the P0010 code means there’s a problem with a part of the engine that controls how the valves open and close. This can affect how the engine runs and might lead to more serious problems if not fixed. It could be something as simple as needing better oil or as complex as needing parts of the engine’s electrical system repaired. It’s important to diagnose and fix this issue to keep your car running smoothly.

How to fix P0010 – learn from mechanics

I looked into P0010 service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.

Case #1: Chevrolet

Vehicle Information

• 2006 Chevrolet HHR LT, 2.4L

Issue + Repair History

• MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) on
• Intermittent fault codes: P0010 (Intake Cam Actuator Circuit Malfunction) and P0013 (Intake Cam Angle Performance)
• Solenoid continuity normal, clean engine oil
• Issues more prevalent with hot engine

OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• Not applicable (no other codes mentioned)

Community Suggestions

• Check oil type, avoid thicker oil
• Possible intermittent short to ground or power
• Open, short to ground, or short to voltage on high control circuit or open on low reference circuit
• Ensure proper oil viscosity, command and measure CMP actuator
• Check for wiring harness issues, particularly at intake camshaft sensor

Final Fix

• Found high/erratic resistance in power feed wire (Pnk/Blk) at ECM C2 connector
• Issue was a breaking wire inside insulation at actuator solenoid connector
• Fixed by splicing new circuit, resulting in steady 13 ohms resistance
• No issues or codes after road test

Case #2: Buick

Vehicle Information

• 2012 Buick Regal, 2.4L

Issue + Repair History

• MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) on
• Code POAB9 (Hybrid System Performance)
• Car intermittently feels like stalling when coming to a stop
• Additional codes: P0010 (Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve) and P0300 (Random Misfire), but P0300 did not reappear after erasure
• No misfires felt, intake cam adjustment solenoid valve scoped and functional

OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P0010 (Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve)
• P0300 (Random Misfire) – erased and not reappearing
• POAB9 (Hybrid System Performance)

Community Suggestions

• Program the K59 starter generator control module if no other codes or driveability concerns exist; replace the SGCM if the code resets
• Ensure all codes are clear; if P0AB9 returns, replace the generator starter control module
• Check for latest vehicle calibration
• Test control circuits of P0010; check for intermittent connections, wiring issues, or ECM driver circuit faults
• P0010 is electrical; check resistance of the solenoid and consider replacing it

Final Fix

• Camshaft adjuster solenoid had an intermittent open winding
• Identified open circuit with an ohmmeter while wiggling the solenoid
• After fixing, no other codes reappeared

Case #3: Volkswagen

Vehicle Information

• 2001 Volkswagen Passat GLS, 1.8L

Issue + Repair History

• MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) on, code P0010 (Camshaft Position A Actuator Bank 1)
• Customer reported dissatisfaction with dealer service
• Oil slightly low and due for change, not excessively thick
• Replaced actuator/cam tensioner, changed oil (4 qts of synthetic)
• Issue persisted after test drive (12 miles)

OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P0010 (Camshaft Position A Actuator Bank 1)
• P0012
• “Emissions Workshop” alert on scan tool

Community Suggestions

• Check if the timing is off
• Confirm good oil pressure
• Inspect power and signal to actuator, timing belt marks, and cam timing chain marks
• Check for oil pressure problems, particularly with oil suction strainer on the oil pump
• Consider sludge buildup, drop oil pan to inspect oil pump screen
• Check oil pressure, timing marks, camshaft sensor, actuator function, and mechanical vs. electrical problem
• Investigate emissions workshop message, vacuum lines, and cam timing
• Address circuit problem, not just functional issues

Final Fix

• Replaced the new tensioner with another one, resolving the problem.

Case #4: Toyota

Vehicle Information

• 2003 Toyota Camry LE, 2.4L

Issue + Repair History

• Initial code: P0010, indicating OCV (Oil Control Valve) issue
• Replaced OCV after finding it to be open
• New code P0012 emerged, leading to replacement of ECM with a used one
• Performed VVTi valve test, stalling occurred as expected
• After two days, code P0010 reappeared with new ECM; cleared but returned immediately
• Checked wiring, valve specs, and applied direct power to valve with no response
• Swapped back old ECM, observed different voltage and duty cycle readings
• Suspected issue with used ECM
• Vehicle had a head and timing chain job over a year ago

OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P0010 (OCV open or short)
• P0012 (Not specified in the provided information)

Community Suggestions

• Check engine oil type; incorrect oil can affect VVTi functionality
• Use Toyota ILSAC 5W-30 oil as recommended

Final Fix

• Replaced the pigtail for the actuator, which resolved the issue.

Case #5: Hyundai

Vehicle Information

• 2004 Hyundai Elantra GLS, 2.0L

Issue + Repair History

• MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) on, code P0010 (A-cam position actuator circuit Bank 1)
• Attempted to remove the variable valve timing actuator (oil control valve), but it was stuck and broke during removal
• No removal and replacement (R&R) procedure found in Alldata or Mitchell
• Cylinder head removed, oil control valve drilled out at machine shop, and head reinstalled

OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P0010 (A-cam position actuator circuit Bank 1)

Community Suggestions

• Usually, only an O-ring holds the oil control valve, suggesting to try heat or twist and pull
• Inspect for engine sludge, particularly if the valve cover is removed
• Hyundai’s service website may provide more detailed information
• Ensure correct identification of the actuator versus sensor; clean actuator, screen, and passageway, and conduct a hot oil flush
• Only one bolt holds the oil control valve; check Hyundai’s website for a technical service bulletin (TSB) on diagnosing the valve and ohm specs

Final Fix

• Removed the cylinder head and had the oil control valve drilled out at a machine shop, which resolved the issue.

Common Advice	Description of Diagnostic Step
Check Oil Quality and Level	Ensure the engine oil is not overly thick, low, or overdue for change as poor oil quality can affect actuator performance.
Inspect Wiring and Electrical Connections	Verify the integrity of wiring and electrical connections to the actuator to rule out shorts, opens, or poor connections.
Test Actuator Directly	Apply power and ground directly to the actuator (if accessible) to check for proper operation and stalling.
Consider Actuator Replacement	If the actuator is found to be faulty (e.g., open circuit or stuck), replacing it might resolve the issue.
Check for Engine Sludge	Inspect for sludge build-up, particularly if the engine is known for oiling issues, as it can impede actuator function.
Confirm ECM Functionality	Ensure that the Engine Control Module (ECM) is functioning correctly and providing appropriate signals and voltage to the actuator.
Evaluate Mechanical vs. Electrical Issue	Distinguish between a mechanical problem (like sludge or actuator sticking) and an electrical issue (like wiring or ECM faults).