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P25D5 code meaning

Exhaust Camshaft Actuator Park Lock Control Circuit High (Bank 2)

Powertrain system Generic code P25xx codes Check engine light

What P25D5 means

P25D5 closes this series: the bank 2 exhaust phaser's lock control signal sits above its allowed voltage, pointing to a short to battery or ignition voltage, a return path tied to supply, or a defective output in the module. The protected driver then stops switching, and the lock solenoid stays without command until the next key cycle or until the fault vanishes. If P25D5 shows up together with high codes on other actuators, a shared harness fault or a module problem is more likely than a bad solenoid. There is no public manufacturer documentation for P25D5; the description draws on CARB's monitoring rules for variable valve timing and output components and on the design of locking phasers. Driveability suffers only mildly, but emissions and fuel use rise.

P25D5 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 P25D5

  • Check engine lamp on
  • Slightly higher fuel consumption

Common causes of P25D5

  • Most likelyBank 2 exhaust lock wire shorted to battery or ignition voltage
  • PossibleHarness fault affecting several actuator lines
  • Less likelyDefective output 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

Exhaust cam phaser b2Park lock solenoidWiring harness

What each part of P25D5 means

PPowertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission.
2Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make.
5Area: vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs.
D5The exact fault in that area.

What to do next

  • Note P25D5 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 P25D5

What does P25D5 mean?

P25D5 means "Exhaust Camshaft Actuator Park Lock Control Circuit High (Bank 2)". P25D5 closes this series: the bank 2 exhaust phaser's lock control signal sits above its allowed voltage, pointing to a short to battery or ignition voltage, a return path tied to supply, or a defective output in the module. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.

Is it safe to drive with P25D5?

Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P25D5 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.

Will P25D5 fail an emissions test?

Yes, it can. P25D5 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 P25D5 to fix?

Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3.5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.

Will P25D5 clear itself after the repair?

Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.

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Technical content: OBDex open OBD-II database (public domain, CC0), checked 4 Nov 2026, edited for US drivers by the VinGear team.
Technical sources for P25D5