P2659 code meaning
"A" Rocker Arm Actuator Control Circuit High (Bank 2)
Powertrain system Generic code P26xx codes Check engine light
What P2659 means
P2659 covers the bank 2 control circuit of actuator A reading high: the wire is shorted to a voltage source or the controller's driver stage no longer switches it to ground. No manufacturer documents P2659 publicly. On bank 1, GM's 2015 table 15OBDG05 checks this as P2649 only while the driver is commanded on, again with 100 failures out of 120 samples and a Type A fault. A short of this kind may keep the solenoid powered, so the rocker arms of bank 2 could stay switched; alternatively the controller cuts the output. Compare with P2658 for the low side and P2655 for an open circuit; measuring the voltage at the unplugged connector separates harness from controller faults.
P2659 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P2659
- MIL on immediately
- Bank 2 lift stays switched or switching is disabled
- Rough idle in some cases
Common causes of P2659
- Most likelyBank 2 control wire shorted to a voltage source
- PossibleController output stage no longer switching to ground
- Less likelyNeighbouring pins bridged in the connector
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Rocker arm actuator a b2Oil control valveWiring harness
What each part of P2659 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. |
| 59 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2659 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 P2659
What does P2659 mean?
P2659 means ""A" Rocker Arm Actuator Control Circuit High (Bank 2)". P2659 covers the bank 2 control circuit of actuator A reading high: the wire is shorted to a voltage source or the controller's driver stage no longer switches it to ground. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2659?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2659 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2659 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2659 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 P2659 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2.5 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P2659 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.