What Does P003E Mean?
The ECM has detected that the 'A' camshaft profile control on Bank 2 is stuck in the off (default) position or not performing correctly. The intake cam profile switching on the bank opposite cylinder #1 cannot activate. Symptoms are similar to P003C but isolated to Bank 2, causing reduced power at higher RPMs and decreased fuel economy. On V-engines, the driver may notice asymmetric power delivery.
Common Causes
30%
Cam profile switching mechanism jammed due to oil sludge or debris on Bank 2
25%
Faulty Bank 2 oil control valve for profile switching
20%
Low oil pressure or restricted oil gallery feeding Bank 2 VVT
15%
Worn cam profile lobes or rocker assembly on Bank 2
10%
Electrical issue with the Bank 2 profile control solenoid
Diagnostic Steps
1
Check if Bank 1 codes (P003C) are also present. If both banks are affected, suspect a systemic issue like low oil pressure, wrong oil viscosity, or severely degraded oil.
2
Verify engine oil level and condition. Check that the correct manufacturer-specified viscosity is installed. Contaminated or low oil is the most common cause of cam profile switching failures.
3
Monitor the Bank 2 cam profile solenoid duty cycle and cam position sensor. Command the profile switch at the appropriate RPM and observe whether Bank 2 cam position changes.
4
Remove and inspect the Bank 2 oil control valve. Check the screen/filter for debris. Verify the solenoid operates and the valve spool moves freely. Compare to the Bank 1 OCV for consistency.
5
Check oil pressure at the Bank 2 cam profile switching gallery if a test port is available. Restricted oil passages can prevent adequate pressure from reaching the switching mechanism even when main oil pressure is normal.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $800
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The ECM has detected that the 'A' camshaft profile control on Bank 2 is stuck in the off (default) position or not performing correctly. The intake cam profile switching on the bank opposite cylinder #1 cannot activate. Symptoms are similar to P003C but isolated to Bank 2, causing reduced power at h...
The most common cause of P003E ("A" Camshaft Profile Control Performance/Stuck Off Bank 2) is: Cam profile switching mechanism jammed due to oil sludge or debris on Bank 2
Typical repair costs for P003E range from $150 to $800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to drive at reduced performance. Bank 2 cylinders will operate on the default cam profile. Power delivery may feel uneven on V-configuration engines. No immediate safety risk, but repair to restore full engine performance and fuel economy.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P003E to identify the root cause.
OBDHut Mobile App
Scan codes directly from your car with the OBDHut app.
Coming Soon
Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Variable Valve Timing
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
A quality scan tool helps you read codes, view live data, and clear faults.
