P05CE on 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander — Cold Start 'B' Camshaft Position Timing Performance (Bank 1)
1 vehicles · 1 makes
Most Reported On
P05CE is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Cold Start 'B' Camshaft Position Timing Performance (Bank 1).” A generic OBD-II powertrain code. During the cold-start warm-up phase, the engine control module commands the 'B' camshaft (the second cam on bank 1, typically the exhaust cam on a dual-cam engine) to a specific position to speed catalyst light-off and cut emissions. P05CE sets when the actual measured cam position does not reach or follow the commanded position within the allowed window during that cold-start period. The car often drives normally once warm, so this frequently appears as a check engine light with a rough or slightly rattly cold start and a possible emissions test failure. This code is most commonly reported on 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander.
Common Causes
Diagnostic Tools
This is a powertrain code, so a basic OBD-II reader can read it. These read P05CE.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple code reader for engine (P) codes on many compatible OBD-II vehicles. It does not support every vehicle or hybrid/EV application, and it does NOT read body, chassis or network codes; confirm exact-vehicle compatibility before buying.
- Read & clear engine (P) codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth scanner with a companion app that reads beyond the engine module — ABS, SRS and transmission — plus manufacturer-specific codes on many vehicles.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X V3.0 Elite OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
Handheld scanner covering the 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 tablet with all-system coverage and bi-directional control, so you can command a module rather than only read it.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
What you can do yourself, and what needs a shop
Reading the code, clearing it, and watching whether it returns is a driveway job with the right scanner. These steps are not:
- Module programming or software updates — needs the manufacturer software or a J2534 pass-through with a paid subscription.
- Replacing a control module — most are VIN-programmed and immobilizer-registered, so a new one does nothing until it is coded to your car.
- Airbag/SRS component work — a stored fault can deploy a live device.
If the vehicle is still under warranty, check for an open recall or technical service bulletin before buying anything — the repair may already be covered.
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FAQ
What does P05CE mean?
P05CE stands for "Cold Start 'B' Camshaft Position Timing Performance (Bank 1)." A generic OBD-II powertrain code. During the cold-start warm-up phase, the engine control module commands the 'B' camshaft (the second cam on bank 1, typically the exhaust cam on a dual-cam engine) to a specific position to speed catalyst light-off and cut emissions. P05CE sets when the actual measured cam position does not reach or follow the commanded position within the allowed window during that cold-start period. The car often drives normally once warm, so this frequently appears as a check engine light with a rough or slightly rattly cold start and a possible emissions test failure.
What are the most common causes of P05CE?
The most common causes of P05CE are: Low, degraded, or wrong-viscosity engine oil restricting flow to the cam phaser, Clogged oil control valve (camshaft position actuator solenoid) screen, or a failed solenoid, Stretched timing chain or worn guides/tensioner altering cam timing, Failed 'B' camshaft phaser/actuator on bank 1 stuck or slow to move, Wiring or connector fault on the oil control valve circuit, Camshaft or crankshaft position sensor reporting inaccurate timing data, Outdated ECM calibration — some manufacturers address this code with a software update. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P05CE?
Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause and vehicle.
Which vehicles are affected by P05CE?
Au7o has documented P05CE across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Toyota.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.