P266D code meaning
"A" Rocker Arm Actuator Position Sensor Circuit High (Bank 2)
Powertrain system Generic code P26xx codes Check engine light
What P266D means
P266D is logged when the bank 2 position feedback of rocker arm actuator A climbs above its upper limit. Typical reasons are an interrupted sensor ground, a signal wire chafed through onto a supply line, or corrosion that raises resistance. Since the value no longer represents a reachable actuator position, the engine controller discards it. No manufacturer documents P266D publicly; the requirement to detect it comes from CARB's monitoring rules for variable valve lift components. Only engines with position-sensed actuators on both banks could ever set it. Diagnosis starts with reference voltage and ground at the bank 2 sensor plug. Related: P266C, P264D.
P266D at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P266D
- MIL on
- Lift on bank 2 frozen
- Reduced power
Common causes of P266D
- Most likelyInterrupted ground of the bank 2 sensor
- PossibleSignal wire chafed onto a supply line
- Less likelyCorroded terminals raising circuit resistance
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 b2Wiring harness
What each part of P266D 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. |
| 6D | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P266D 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 P266D
What does P266D mean?
P266D means ""A" Rocker Arm Actuator Position Sensor Circuit High (Bank 2)". P266D is logged when the bank 2 position feedback of rocker arm actuator A climbs above its upper limit. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P266D?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P266D the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P266D fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P266D 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 P266D to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P266D clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.