P25CF code meaning
Intake Camshaft Actuator Park Lock Control Circuit High (Bank 2)
Powertrain system Generic code P25xx codes Check engine light
What P25CF means
P25CF is logged when the bank 2 intake phaser lock control line stays above its permitted voltage band. Common reasons are contact with a powered wire, moisture bridging connector pins to a supply terminal, or a failed output transistor in the controller. Once the driver protects itself and stops switching, the second bank's lock can no longer be released, so its intake cam may stay at the base timing while bank 1 still adjusts; the resulting imbalance shows up as a lumpy idle. In GM's 15OBDG01 table P25CF closes the list of intake phaser lock codes in the fault bundles that suspend the other phaser tests; no threshold is published. Before replacing the controller, measure the line with the solenoid unplugged.
P25CF 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 P25CF
- Check engine lamp on
- Lumpy idle from uneven bank timing
Common causes of P25CF
- Most likelyBank 2 lock control wire touching a powered circuit
- PossibleMoisture in the connector bridging to a supply pin
- Less likelyFailed output transistor in the engine control module
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 P25CF 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. |
| CF | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P25CF 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 P25CF
What does P25CF mean?
P25CF means "Intake Camshaft Actuator Park Lock Control Circuit High (Bank 2)". P25CF is logged when the bank 2 intake phaser lock control line stays above its permitted voltage band. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P25CF?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P25CF the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P25CF fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P25CF 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 P25CF to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3.5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P25CF clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.