P25D3 code meaning
Exhaust Camshaft Actuator Park Lock Control Circuit/Open (Bank 2)
Powertrain system Generic code P25xx codes Check engine light
What P25D3 means
P25D3 concerns engines with two cylinder banks and a lockable exhaust phaser on each: the lock solenoid circuit of the bank 2 exhaust phaser is open or electrically implausible, so the module loses control over its pin. On many V engines the bank 2 exhaust solenoid sits at the rear or close to the firewall, where connectors are easily left loose after timing work. A loose plug sets only this code, whereas an open in a shared supply would usually trigger lock codes on several phasers at once. No manufacturer documents P25D3 in public material; the text is based on CARB's variable valve timing and output monitoring rules and on how locking phasers operate. The engine keeps running, but with fixed exhaust timing on bank 2.
P25D3 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 P25D3
- Check engine lamp on
- Uneven running between the banks
Common causes of P25D3
- Most likelyBank 2 exhaust lock connector left loose after timing work
- PossibleOpen winding in the bank 2 exhaust lock solenoid
- Less likelyOpen in a supply shared with other phaser solenoids
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Exhaust cam phaser b2Park lock solenoidWiring harness
What each part of P25D3 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. |
| D3 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P25D3 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 P25D3
What does P25D3 mean?
P25D3 means "Exhaust Camshaft Actuator Park Lock Control Circuit/Open (Bank 2)". P25D3 concerns engines with two cylinder banks and a lockable exhaust phaser on each: the lock solenoid circuit of the bank 2 exhaust phaser is open or electrically implausible, so the module loses control over its pin. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P25D3?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P25D3 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P25D3 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P25D3 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 P25D3 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3.5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P25D3 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.