How is fault code P0028 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 first. Pull the dipstick, look at the colour, smell it, and confirm the level is right. Black, thin, sludgy oil will cause this on its own, and a service is the cheapest possible fix. 2. Plug in and read all stored codes, not just P0028. Things like P0026, P0018 or P0019 alongside it point you towards the timing or phaser rather than just the solenoid. 3. Inspect the Bank 2 intake solenoid connector and wiring for corrosion, chafing, or oil that's tracked down inside the plug. Clean it up and check it sits tight. 4. Measure the solenoid resistance with a multimeter and compare against the manufacturer's spec. Out of range or open circuit means the solenoid is done. 5. Remove the solenoid and look at the filter screen and sealing rings. A screen packed with sludge tells you the oil hasn't been changed often enough and the passages may be blocked too. 6. If the solenoid, wiring and oil all check out, you're looking at the phaser or timing chain. That's a

Intake 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 first. Pull the dipstick, look at the colour, smell it, and confirm the level is right. Black, thin, sludgy oil will cause this on its own, and a service is the cheapest possible fix. 2. Plug in and read all stored codes, not just P0028.

PPowertrain
0Generic code
0Fuel / Air
28Sequence number

What does it mean?

OBD II fault code P0028 is defined as “ Intake Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 2)”, with “Bank 2” denoting the side of the engine opposite the cylinder #1 on engines with two cylinder heads. Code P0028 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 intake camshaft actuator for that particular application. Consult the relevant manual for the exact value of the voltage variation that will set code P0028 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 intake 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.