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P0023PowertrainGeneric SAE code

Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit / Open (Bank 2)

P0023 is an OBD-II trouble code that indicates exhaust camshaft position actuator circuit / open (bank 2). This page explains what the code means, what issues may trigger it, common symptoms and where to look next.

P0023 code meaning is one of the most common OBD-II searches when a warning light appears on the dashboard.

Drivers searching for P0023 usually want to know what the code means, whether the car is safe to drive and what part may need testing first.

Likely causes

  • Open circuit or short circuit
  • Poor electrical connection
  • Timing issue
  • Faulty cam/crank sensor
  • Oil flow or VVT problem
  • Wiring or connector issue

Symptoms

  • Check engine light illuminated
  • Hard starting or stalling
  • Reduced performance

Severity

Medium

Can you keep driving?

Driving may be risky if the engine is running poorly, stalling or showing strong timing-related symptoms.

Common fix areas

  • Check continuity, power and ground
  • Inspect for damaged wiring or corrosion
  • Scan all fault codes and freeze-frame data
  • Inspect wiring, connectors and grounds
  • Confirm repair with a retest after clearing codes

Manufacturer notes

Generic OBD-II: This code usually has a common meaning across many supported vehicles.
Vehicle-specific diagnosis: The actual cause, symptoms and repair path can still vary by make, model and engine.

FAQs

What does P0023 mean?

P0023 means exhaust camshaft position actuator circuit / open (bank 2).

What can cause P0023?

Common causes include component failure, wiring faults, incorrect sensor readings, leaks, pressure issues or related upstream faults in the same system.

Can I keep driving with P0023?

That depends on how the car is behaving. If there is rough running, overheating, loss of power or stalling, it should be diagnosed quickly.

Does P0023 always mean I need a new part?

No. A fault code points you to a system or condition, but proper diagnosis is still needed before replacing parts.