P25CE code meaning
Intake Camshaft Actuator Park Lock Control Circuit Low (Bank 2)
Powertrain system Generic code P25xx codes Check engine light
What P25CE means
P25CE stands for a low signal on the lock control line of the bank 2 intake phaser: the wire or the solenoid winding has found a path to ground, or the module's output is stuck pulling low. Because the second bank's harness often runs along the back of the engine or under the intake manifold, chafing at brackets and heat damage are frequent findings. A grounded line may hold the lock solenoid energised permanently, leaving the pin withdrawn when the engine is shut down, which can cause a clatter on the next cold start. GM's 15OBDG01 table includes P25CE in the intake phaser fault groups that disable the other phaser monitors, without its own limits. Codes for both banks at once suggest a shared supply or low battery voltage rather than two bad solenoids.
P25CE at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 3.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P25CE
- Check engine lamp on
- Clatter at cold start
Common causes of P25CE
- Most likelyBank 2 harness chafed through at a bracket
- PossibleShorted winding in the bank 2 lock solenoid
- Less likelyLow system voltage setting lock codes on both banks
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Intake cam phaser b2Park lock solenoidWiring harness
What each part of P25CE means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 5 | Area: vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs. |
| CE | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P25CE 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 P25CE
What does P25CE mean?
P25CE means "Intake Camshaft Actuator Park Lock Control Circuit Low (Bank 2)". P25CE stands for a low signal on the lock control line of the bank 2 intake phaser: the wire or the solenoid winding has found a path to ground, or the module's output is stuck pulling low. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P25CE?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P25CE the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P25CE fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P25CE 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 P25CE to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3.5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P25CE clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.