P0010: Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)
10 vehicles · 7 makes · $90-$5,000 repair
Most Reported On
P0010 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1).” This code points to an electrical problem in the intake camshaft position actuator (variable valve timing) circuit on Bank 1. The computer controls an oil-fed solenoid to advance or retard the intake camshaft for better performance and efficiency, and it has detected the solenoid circuit is open, shorted, or out of range. This is usually an electrical or solenoid fault rather than a mechanical timing problem, though oil-related issues can play a role. You may notice rough running, reduced power, or lower fuel economy. This code is most commonly reported on 2012-2018 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (C250, C300, C350), 2017-2021 Honda Clarity, and 2004-2021 Subaru WRX STI, plus 7 other vehicles, with repair costs ranging from $90 to $5,000.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 10 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
To diagnose P0010, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).
- Read & clear engine codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.
- Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
- Live data stream & graphing
- AutoVIN for vehicle identification
- Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool
by Autel
Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
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Vehicles Affected (10)
Cam Adjuster Solenoid Failure
Cold-Start Camshaft Adjuster (Magnet/Solenoid) Rattle
M271 Camshaft Adjuster (VVT) Magnet Solenoid Failure and Oil Intrusion
M276 V6 Camshaft Adjuster (Magnet/Solenoid) Wear and Cold-Start Rattle
FAQ
What does P0010 mean?
P0010 stands for "Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)." This code points to an electrical problem in the intake camshaft position actuator (variable valve timing) circuit on Bank 1. The computer controls an oil-fed solenoid to advance or retard the intake camshaft for better performance and efficiency, and it has detected the solenoid circuit is open, shorted, or out of range. This is usually an electrical or solenoid fault rather than a mechanical timing problem, though oil-related issues can play a role. You may notice rough running, reduced power, or lower fuel economy.
What are the most common causes of P0010?
The most common causes of P0010 are: Faulty intake camshaft (VVT) oil control solenoid, Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring/connector at the solenoid, Open or short in the actuator circuit, Low or dirty engine oil restricting the solenoid, Clogged solenoid screen or oil passage, Poor electrical ground, Failed PCM/ECM (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0010?
Repair costs for P0010 range from $90 to $5,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0010?
Au7o has documented P0010 across 10 vehicle models from 7 manufacturers: Chevrolet, Honda, MINI, Mercedes-Benz, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen.
Sources (12)
- NHTSA2018 Honda Clarity PHEV Complaints — NHTSA
- owner-reportLoss of Power and Engine Over-Rev — ClarityForum.com
- ForumChevy Equinox, GMC Terrain Oil Consumption Lawsuit (ClassAction.org)
- articleGM Hit With 2.4L Ecotec Engine Class Action Lawsuit (GM Authority)
- article$42M GM Chevy Equinox Oil Guzzling Class Action Settlement Approved (Top Class Actions)
- videoKnown Channel Repair Video: Replacing VANOS Solenoids on MINI GP N18 Engine
- articleMercedes 2.0L M274/M264 Camshaft Adjuster Rattle & Failure (2014-2023) - Go-Parts
- ForumNeed advice please! P0016, cold rattle on startup - MBWorld.org
- manufacturerToyota 15330-22030 Camshaft Timing Oil Control Valve - parts.toyota.com
- articleP0011 Engine Code - Camshaft Timing Over-Advanced - FIXD
- ForumCamshaft adjuster magnet - Replacement or Cleaning? - Mercedes SLK World
- articleMercedes-Benz Camshaft Adjuster Magnets - Everything You Need to Know - eEuroparts
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.