AutoFixDB - Free OBD-II diagnostic trouble code lookup. Find causes, symptoms, diagnostic steps and repair solutions.

Overview

P0010 indicates an electrical fault in the Bank 1 intake camshaft actuator circuit (camshaft VVT/VCT solenoid), often due to wiring, solenoid, or oil issues

Common Symptoms

Check Engine Light illuminated
Rough or unstable idle
Reduced engine performance and acceleration
Decreased fuel economy

Most Common Causes

Faulty VVT solenoid / camshaft position actuator high

Solenoid internal open/short or stuck operation frequently triggers P0010

Open/short or damaged wiring in the actuator circuit high

Circuit faults are a primary reason the ECM registers this code

Dirty, old, or low engine oil affecting VVT operation medium

Oil condition affects the solenoid’s hydraulic control and can indirectly cause circuit faults

PCM/ECM malfunction low

Rare but possible; verify wiring and solenoid before module replacement

Diagnostic Steps

Confirm the code with an OBD-II scanner and note any related codes

Expected: P0010 present, possibly with other VVT related codes

Interpretation: Isolate Bank 1 intake camshaft circuit fault
Visually inspect wiring and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose pins

Expected: Clean, correct wiring; no breaks or shorts

Interpretation: If defects found, repair and retest
Check engine oil level and condition; change oil if dirty or low

Expected: Oil at correct level and clean

Interpretation: Poor oil condition can contribute to VVT actuator issues
Test VVT solenoid power, ground, and resistance using a multimeter

Expected: Specified voltage and resistance values per manufacturer spec

Interpretation: Out-of-range or no signal likely indicates solenoid or circuit fault
If electrical tests pass, consider testing PCM outputs or performing active tests

Expected: ECM commands correct signals to actuator

Interpretation: If PCM output is abnormal after harness and solenoid verified good, consider PCM fault

Repair Solutions

Replace faulty VVT solenoid/camshaft position actuator medium

Estimated Cost: $150 - $800

Costs vary by vehicle; include labor and part costs

Repair or replace damaged wiring/connectors medium

Estimated Cost: $50 - $300

Connector cleaning or harness repair often necessary

Engine oil and filter change easy

Estimated Cost: $40 - $120

Helpful when oil condition is contributing factor

PCM diagnosis and possible reprogramming/replacement hard

Estimated Cost: $500 - $1500

Least common; only after eliminating other causes

Common Misdiagnoses

Avoid these common diagnostic mistakes:

Misinterpreting P0010 as a mechanical timing issue rather than a circuit/solenoid fault

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the definition of the P0010 engine code?

The P0010 code stands for â€œAâ€ Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1). This generally indicates an issue with the Engine Mechanical system.

Should I stop driving if I have P0010?

With a severity level of medium, may cause rough idle, reduced performance, reduced fuel economy; generally still drivable short-term but should be diagnosed promptly

What are the symptoms of P0010?

Drivers often report: Check Engine Light illuminated, Rough or unstable idle, Reduced engine performance and acceleration when this code is present.

What parts fail when P0010 is set?

Potential culprits include: Faulty VVT solenoid / camshaft position actuator, Open/short or damaged wiring in the actuator circuit, Dirty, old, or low engine oil affecting VVT operation. A proper diagnosis is recommended.

How much does it cost to fix P0010?

Expect to pay around $120 if the issue is a Engine oil and filter change, but up to $1500 if the PCM diagnosis and possible reprogramming/replacement needs replacement.

What cars are affected by the P0010 code?

This is a universal code. You might see P0010 on Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, or any other OBD-II vehicle.

P0010: â€œAâ€ Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)