P264D code meaning
"A" Rocker Arm Actuator Position Sensor Circuit High (Bank 1)
Powertrain system Generic code P26xx codes Check engine light
What P264D means
With P264D the position signal of actuator A on bank 1 reads above its plausible maximum. An open ground return, a signal line touching the 5 V or battery feed, or water in the connector can push it up. Because a reading at the upper stop looks like an impossible position, the controller rejects it and runs a fixed lift. No public manufacturer documentation gives a threshold; the regulatory basis is CARB's demand to check every input of a variable lift system for out-of-range values. Toyota's Valvematic engines show that such feedback exists, though Toyota files its sensor faults under the B codes. Compare with P264C (low) and P264E (intermittent).
P264D at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor0.5 to 2.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P264D
- MIL on
- Engine runs on a fixed lift setting
- Noticeably less power
Common causes of P264D
- Most likelyOpen sensor ground
- PossibleSignal wire shorted to 5 V or battery voltage
- Less likelyWater ingress in the sensor connector
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Rocker arm position sensor a b1Wiring harness
What each part of P264D means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 6 | Area: computer (engine control module) and output circuits. |
| 4D | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P264D 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 P264D
What does P264D mean?
P264D means ""A" Rocker Arm Actuator Position Sensor Circuit High (Bank 1)". With P264D the position signal of actuator A on bank 1 reads above its plausible maximum. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P264D?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P264D the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P264D fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P264D 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 P264D to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2.5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P264D clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.