Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Low (Bank 2)
P0085 indicates the exhaust valve control solenoid circuit is detecting a low voltage condition on Bank 2. This typically means the solenoid control circuit is shorted to ground, preventing proper voltage from reaching the solenoid and disrupting variable valve timing operation.
What You Might Notice
- Check Engine Light illuminated
- Poor acceleration or reduced engine power
- Decreased fuel economy
- Rough idle condition
- Possible difficulty starting
Most Common Causes
- 1
Wire harness shorted to ground
The solenoid control wire or harness connector is damaged, pinched, or corroded, creating a short circuit to the vehicle chassis or engine ground.
- 2
Faulty exhaust valve control solenoid
The solenoid itself has developed an internal short or winding failure, causing excessive current draw and low voltage at the PCM output.
- 3
Corroded or damaged connector
The solenoid connector pins are corroded, loose, or the connector housing is damaged, preventing proper electrical contact.
- 4
Faulty PCM or ECM
The engine control module has failed in the solenoid driver circuit, unable to properly control the exhaust valve solenoid output.
How to Diagnose It
- 1
Check Wire harness shorted to ground — The solenoid control wire or harness connector is damaged, pinched, or corroded, creating a short circuit to the vehicle chassis or engine ground.
- 2
Check Faulty exhaust valve control solenoid — The solenoid itself has developed an internal short or winding failure, causing excessive current draw and low voltage at the PCM output.
- 3
Check Corroded or damaged connector — The solenoid connector pins are corroded, loose, or the connector housing is damaged, preventing proper electrical contact.
- 4
Check Faulty PCM or ECM — The engine control module has failed in the solenoid driver circuit, unable to properly control the exhaust valve solenoid output.
How to Fix It
- 1
Inspect and repair wiring harness
Locate the exhaust valve control solenoid circuit using the factory wiring diagram. Inspect the harness for cuts, pinches, or exposed wires. Check for proper routing away from heat sources and sharp edges. Repair or replace damaged sections of the harness.
- 2
Clean or replace solenoid connector
Disconnect the solenoid connector and inspect the pins for corrosion or damage. Clean with electrical contact cleaner and dielectric grease, or replace the connector if severely corroded. Ensure proper seating and engagement.
- 3
Replace exhaust valve control solenoid
If wiring is confirmed good and no shorts are found, the solenoid is likely faulty. Disconnect the solenoid, remove the fastening bolt or clip, and install a new OEM or quality replacement solenoid. Retest after installation.
- 4
Test and replace PCM/ECM if needed
If all other components test good, the PCM/ECM solenoid driver circuit may be faulty. This requires professional-grade diagnostics and typically PCM reprogramming or replacement by a qualified technician.
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