P2C0F code meaning
A Camshaft Profile Actuator Position Sensor C Circuit Low Bank 1
Powertrain system Generic code P2Cxx codes Check engine light
What P2C0F means
With P2C0F the ECM sees the position sensor C circuit of bank 1, the Hall feedback in the third intake actuator, connected to ground. In GM's L3B tables the test runs while the output is commanded on and looks for a signal-to-ground resistance not above 0.5 ohm; after 4 failures in 5 samples at more than 11 V the code is stored as Type A and the MIL lights at once (19OBDG03D; the 2025 table 25OBDG03B keeps the same limit). Of GM's harness bulletins, only the keyword section of PIT5677 and 21-NA-149 mentions P2C0F, while their main lists carry the open and high codes of this sensor. A pinched wire against the cylinder head or a shorted actuator is the probable cause; lift switching remains blocked. Open: P2C0D, high: P2C10.
P2C0F at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P2C0F
- Check engine light comes on during the first drive
- Engine no longer switches cam profile or deactivates cylinders
Common causes of P2C0F
- Most likelySensor C line pinched or chafed against ground
- PossibleInternal ground short in actuator 3
- Less likelyContaminated or damaged connector pins
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
A camshaft profile actuator pos sensor c b1Wiring harnessECM
What each part of P2C0F means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| C | Area: hybrid propulsion. |
| 0F | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2C0F 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 P2C0F
What does P2C0F mean?
P2C0F means "A Camshaft Profile Actuator Position Sensor C Circuit Low Bank 1". With P2C0F the ECM sees the position sensor C circuit of bank 1, the Hall feedback in the third intake actuator, connected to ground. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2C0F?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2C0F the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2C0F fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2C0F 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 P2C0F to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P2C0F clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.