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P2090 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "'B' Camshaft Position Actuator Control Circuit Low Bank 1". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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The P2090 code is a generic powertrain code related to fuel and air metering and auxiliary emission controls. This code appears when the engine control module (ECM) has detected variances between camshaft B and the crankshaft at idle outside of set allowed parameters.
Codes related to the P2090 include:
If a P2090 code appears, the ECM has detected variances between camshaft B and the crankshaft of 10 degrees at idle or more for more than 10 seconds.
The B camshaft is the vehicle’s rear, exhaust, or right camshaft, and Bank 1 of an engine is usually the bank that contains the engine’s number 1 cylinder. The camshaft actuator system includes four actuator solenoids, four oil control valves, and four actuators.
A vehicle’s engine control module (ECM) controls the camshaft position actuator through two circuits: a high control circuit and a low control circuit. The high control circuit carries a 12-volt pulse width modulated signal from the vehicle’s ECM to the camshaft position actuator solenoid. The low control circuit is the return circuit. The electrical signal is sent through the control circuits to the camshaft position actuator solenoids for desired camshaft timing changes.
Several problems may cause a P2090 code including:
Symptoms of a P2090 code may include:
A mechanic may use several methods to diagnose a P2090 trouble code, including:
Utilize an OBD-II scanner to check for a stored P2090 trouble code
Check vehicle oil level and pressure
Check and ensure all timing components are aligned correctly
Visually inspect all wiring circuitry and components for damage
Check and monitor crankshaft and camshaft positions with electromagnetic sensors
Disconnect the affected actuator from the connector and test voltage for a reference signal and ground (typically 5 volts with the key in the “on” position and the engine turned off)
Test for shorted terminals at the damaged or affected solenoid
Check all electrical circuits for continuity and resistance
Use an oscilloscope to test wave patterns from the sensor and check for anything outside of allowed parameters
A sticking camshaft actuator could be the result of dirty engine oil, so ensure your vehicle’s oil is changed regularly.
Some vehicle owners have reported a P2090 code after other repairs, such as a timing belt replacement or chain replacement. If any components in the timing system are improperly aligned, sensors or even the ECM itself can be unnecessarily blamed for the error and replaced.
Because a vehicle’s safe driving operation may be impacted due to faults that store a P2090 code, this is considered a potentially serious code. When this code appears, it is recommended that you have it diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.
Several repairs can fix a P2090 trouble code and include:
Repair or replace any damaged, shorted, or corroded wires
Perform an oil change and clean dirty actuators or solenoids
Repair or replace damaged or defective circuits and related components
Repair or replace any damaged or improperly aligned timing components
Replace any damaged or defective sensors
Replace any damaged or defective camshaft actuator solenoids
Replace or repair damaged or defective ECM (rare)
Clear all codes, test-drive the vehicle, and rescan to see if any codes reappear
Some vehicles need multiple failure cycles to turn on a Check Engine or warning light. If a light is your first notification of a problem, note that it may not be the first occurrence of the issue.
In addition, not all manufacturers place their camshaft sensors in the same location. Some engines with multiple camshafts may have sensors on each one, while others have notches cut into them located near the middle or rear of the shaft. Placement varies so check a service manual for your make and model’s location.
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