P0010 – Meaning, Causes, Symptoms, & Fixes

Code P0010 Definition

Intake Camshaft Actuator Circuit Open/Short (Bank 1)

What Does Code P0010 Mean?

The variable valve timing (VVT) system increases fuel economy and engine performance by regulating when the intake and exhaust valves are opened and closed. The camshaft(s) is(are) adjusted by the Engine Control Module (ECM) through the use of an oil control valve(s) (OCV) also called variable valve timing control solenoid valves. Code P0010 is triggered when the ECM attempts to adjust the Bank 1 intake camshaft timing by utilizing one of these valves, and it detects an electrical issue in either the circuit going to the valve or the windings of the solenoid in the valve itself. 

What Are The Symptoms Of Code P0010?       

• Check engine light
• Decreased fuel economy
• Decreased engine performance at high RPMs
• Rough running engine
• Rattling/Knocking from engine
• Poor engine idle

What Is The Cause Of Code P0010?

• Faulty VVT control solenoid valve (most common)
• Oil sludge in the engine
• Crankshaft position sensor malfunction
• Camshaft position sensor malfunction
• Frayed or damaged wiring
• Engine operating outside of proper timing parameters

How Serious Is Code P0010? – Moderate

This trouble code will not prevent your vehicle from running. However, if left unsolved, this code could cause your vehicle to experience decreased power and fuel economy. It could also cause your vehicle to fail emissions testing.

Code P0010 Common Diagnosis Mistakes

A common diagnosis mistake associated with code P0010 is replacing the timing actuator without first attempting to clean the actuator to see if that was the actual issue or check the electrical circuit.

Tools Needed to Diagnose:

• FIXD
• Multimeter

How To Diagnose And Repair Code P0010?

Difficulty of Diagnosis and Repair (2 out of 5)

1. Check to see if there are any other codes along with P0010 and clear your Check Engine Light with FIXD.
2. Check freeze frame data relating to the ECM to help pinpoint the exact issue.
3. Do a visual inspection of the bank 1 variable valve timing (VVT) control solenoid valve. Make sure to repair any frayed or faulty wiring or connectors. Once you have done this, clear the code and rescan to see if it is still present.
4. Check to see if there is any engine sludge present. If there is, you must clean it, clear the code, and rescan to see if it is still present.
5. Perform a resistance check of the bank 1 intake camshaft VVT Control solenoid and compare it to the vehicle service manual. If it is out of spec, replace the bank 1 intake VVT Control Solenoid.
6. If the code is still present after these steps, you may need to bring your vehicle to a mechanic for further guidance.

Estimated Cost of Repair

For error code P0010, one or more of the below repairs may be needed to solve the underlying issue. For each possible repair, the estimated cost of repair includes the cost of the relevant parts and the cost of labor required to make the repair. 

• VVT Control Solenoid $500-$600
• Wiring repair/replacement $100-$1000
• Camshaft position sensor $120-$300
• Crankshaft position sensor $190-$250
• Timing chain or belt replacement $200-$1000