2008 Saturn Vue OBD2 Code P000A A Camshaft Position Slow Response Bank 1

P000A code definition

This code is known as ‘A' Camshaft Position Slow Response Bank 1. You may also see a 00010 fault along with this code, which indicates that the problem is in Bank 1.

What the P000A code means

The purpose of camshafts in a 2008 Saturn Vue is to open and close the intake and exhaust valves on the engine's cylinders in order to keep the engine running smoothly. The timing of this process is critical to the engine running efficiently and correctly. When your 2008 Saturn Vue sets code P000A, it means the timing of this process is slower than expected by your 2008 Saturn Vue 's computer.

“A” indicates that the problem involves the intake valves on Bank 1. The PCM (powertrain control module) monitors the camshaft's position as well as where its future position is supposed to be. If the change in the camshaft's position is smaller than it should be during a specific time period, called the diagnostic time, the PCM detects this deficit and over time, if these changes in response time continue, the P000A will set.

What causes the P000A code?

Due to the large number of moving parts involved in the engine and cam system, there's a wide range of possibilities that may cause this code:

• Low oil pressure due to restriction in an oil passage or a bad oil pump
• A faulty camshaft position sensor
• A faulty camshaft position actuator solenoid
• Camshaft adjustment valve 1 fault
• A faulty VCT (variable cam timing) phaser
• Binding in the VCT unit
• Damaged or corroded connector terminal, wiring, or harness
• Bad PCM or ECM (rare)

What are the symptoms of the P000A code?

Oftentimes the only symptom of this problem will be an illuminated Check Engine light. Sometimes other codes in the P000 series will present.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P000A code?

Your technician will likely begin the diagnostic procedure by verifying the code and addressing any codes that set previously to P000A. The codes will then be cleared and your 2008 Saturn Vue retested to see if the same fault returns. Other steps that may be required include:

• Visual inspection of wiring and connectors
• Inspection of the camshaft adjustment mechanism
• Output test on the camshaft adjustment valve (N205)
• Inspection of the crankshaft gears
• Inspection of the oil pump pickup tube filter and other oil passages

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P000A code

While the problem may lie with the actual camshaft mechanism or surrounding components, poor oil pressure is often overlooked as a cause of this code. If any of the oil pump connections become degraded or passageways become clogged, the reduced oil pressure may trigger a camshaft position slow response code.

How serious is the P000A code?

The 2008 Saturn Vue may appear to run smoothly, with no apparent major problems. However if the issue isn't addressed in a timely manner, serious damage may occur to parts such as the camshaft follower, requiring even more expensive repairs down the road.

What repairs can fix the P000A code?

Repairs that may eliminate this stored code include:

• Cam position sensor replacement
• N205 valve replacement
• Clearing of the oil pump pickup tube filter and other oil passages
• Wiring/connector replacement to or from the camshaft adjustment valve
• Oil pump replacement
• VCT phaser replacement
• Retiming of the engine

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P000A code

Due to the variety of issues that could be causing your 2008 Saturn Vue to store this code, the most efficient and timely way to solve the problem is to take it to a professional. Engine timing issues require special tools that allow the mechanic to test the engine timing as well as reset the timing correctly when all of the repairs are completed.

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