P23EC code meaning
Camshaft B Position Signal Output Circuit/Open (Bank 1)
What P23EC means
P23EC belongs to the camshaft B group – on most layouts the exhaust camshaft – and refers to bank 1, the side with cylinder 1. The ECM rebroadcasts the phase signal of that camshaft on a dedicated output wire, and P23EC reports that this wire, or the driver stage feeding it, shows an open or undefined circuit condition. No manufacturer publishes P23EC; the closest documented logic is GM's for P2614 to P2616 on the camshaft A output, where an open of 200 kOhm or more is detected during the low-side test. CARB requires output circuits to be checked whenever another diagnostic relies on them. Low or ground faults are P23ED, high or battery faults P23EE. Drivability normally stays intact.
P23EC at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P23EC
- Stored code, often found during a routine scan
- Receiving module runs on substitute values
Common causes of P23EC
- Most likelyOpen circuit in the camshaft B output wire
- PossibleConnector at the ECM or receiver not fully latched
- Less likelyInput stage of the receiving module defective
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Engine control moduleCam position signal b b1 outputWiring harness
What each part of P23EC means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 3 | Area: ignition system or misfire. |
| EC | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P23EC 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 P23EC
What does P23EC mean?
P23EC means "Camshaft B Position Signal Output Circuit/Open (Bank 1)". P23EC belongs to the camshaft B group – on most layouts the exhaust camshaft – and refers to bank 1, the side with cylinder 1. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P23EC?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P23EC the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P23EC fail an emissions test?
P23EC is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is P23EC to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P23EC clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.