How is fault code P0027 fixed?

A typical diagnostic sequence used by mechanics, provided here for educational reference only. Diagnostic work should be performed by a qualified mechanic with the appropriate tools and training. 1. Check the oil level and condition before anything else. If it's low, black, or overdue, change the oil and filter and see if the code stays gone. This fixes a good share of these 2. Scan for companion codes such as P0078, P0079, or low oil pressure codes. They point you straight at whether it's electrical or oil related 3. Inspect the wiring and connector at the solenoid for corrosion, chafing, or a loose pin. Wiggle-test it with live data running 4. Measure the solenoid resistance with a multimeter and compare to the figure in the workshop manual. An open or shorted winding tells you it's the part 5. Confirm actual oil pressure against spec if the oil is clean and the level is right. A weak pump can mimic a faulty solenoid 6. Clear the code and road-test. If it returns quickly with healthy oil and wiring, the solenoid itself is the likely culprit

Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 2)

Jump to the fix

Severity

Medium

Can I keep driving?

Usually drivable, but get it diagnosed without delay.

First step

A typical diagnostic sequence used by mechanics, provided here for educational reference only. Diagnostic work should be performed by a qualified mechanic with the appropriate tools and training. 1. Check the oil level and condition before anything else. If it's low, black, or overdue, change the oil and filter and see if the code stays gone. This fixes a good share of these 2. Scan for companion codes such as P0078, P0079, or low oil pressure codes.

PPowertrain
0Generic code
0Fuel / Air
27Sequence number

What does it mean?

OBD II fault code P0027 is defined as “Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 1)”, with “Bank 1” denoting the side of the engine that contains cylinder #1 on engines with two cylinder heads. Code P0027 is set when the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) detects a fault in the electro-hydraulic control system of the VVT (Variable Valve Timing), or VCS (Variable Camshaft System).

The code setting parameter is generally a voltage variation that exceeds 10% of the reference voltage for the exhaust camshaft actuator for that particular application. Consult the relevant manual for the exact value of the voltage variation that will set code P0027 for the application being worked on. VVT and VCS systems use pressurized engine oil to act on actuators that control variable valve timing.

The PCM gathers information from various sensors regarding engine speed, engine load, throttle position, and others to calculate an appropriate valve timing setting to increase power, and/or improve fuel economy. Since the engine oil is the agent that transfers power to the actuator that ultimately controls the exhaust valve timing, it should be obvious that oil of the correct type, viscosity, and cleanliness is crucially important to ensure the proper functioning of these systems.

The image below shows a typical VVT control solenoid.

Symptoms

Likely causes

How to fix it

Codes From the Same System

All Fault Codes

Related Similar Codes

This information follows the generic OBD-II definition and does not replace a vehicle-specific diagnosis. The severity rating is rule-based; an authorised diagnostic reading is required for a definitive answer.