P05CD code meaning
Cold Start A Camshaft Position Timing Performance Bank 2
Powertrain system Generic code P05xx codes Check engine light
What P05CD means
During catalyst heating after a cold start the engine module commands a specific cam phaser position for more residual gas and exhaust heat; CARB requires this to be monitored under codes separate from the normal cam codes. These 'performance' codes are GM's current form (since about 2015/16; older GM engines and Ford use the direction codes P052A ff and P054A ff): fault when commanded and actual position differ by more than 4° or 6° once the target is stable. P05CD watches intake camshaft A on bank 2 of a V engine – the cold-start counterpart of P0021. GM's 3.0 L twin turbo sets it above 4° in 150 of 200 samples, type B, two trips; GM states it is the same type of diagnosis as P0021.
P05CD at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 6 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P05CD
- Check engine light on (GM mostly after two trips)
- Often no noticeable symptoms, possibly rough cold idle
- Higher cold-start emissions
Common causes of P05CD
- Most likelyInsufficient cold oil supply: wrong viscosity, low level, worn oil
- PossibleOil control valve bank 2 sticking or screen clogged
- PossiblePhaser worn or lock pin not releasing; on electric phasers a damaged phaser motor
- Less likelyTiming chain stretched or skipped
- Less likelyEngine module software
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Camshaft phaserVct oil control valveEngine oilEngine control module
What each part of P05CD means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 5 | Area: vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs. |
| CD | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P05CD and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P05CD
What does P05CD mean?
P05CD means "Cold Start A Camshaft Position Timing Performance Bank 2". During catalyst heating after a cold start the engine module commands a specific cam phaser position for more residual gas and exhaust heat; CARB requires this to be monitored under codes separate from the normal cam codes. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P05CD?
Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.
Will P05CD fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P05CD is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P05CD to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 6 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P05CD clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.