Fault code P0080 – exhaust valve control solenoid circuit high (Bank 1)

Fault code P0080 is called “Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit High (Bank 1)” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.

Technical description and explained code P0080

OBD-II fault code P0080 is defined as “High signal level in exhaust valve control solenoid circuit (Bank 1)”. It is set when the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects a fault in the electro-hydraulic control system. The VCS (Variable Camshaft System) or VVT (Variable Valve Timing) is normally used.

Fault code P0080 – exhaust valve control solenoid circuit high (Bank 1)

The code setting parameter is usually a voltage deviation greater than 10% of the exhaust camshaft drive reference. Refer to the appropriate manual for the exact voltage deviation at which the code is set for a particular application.

The VVT and VCS systems use pressurized engine oil to actuate the actuators that control the variable camshaft timing. The PCM collects information from various sensors to calculate the appropriate valve timing setting to increase power and improve fuel economy.

Since the engine oil is the intermediary that transmits energy to the actuator, which ultimately controls the timing of the exhaust valves. The correct type, viscosity and purity of oil must be used to ensure the proper functioning of these systems.

Code P0080 is set when any sensor or other component is not operating within the range the PCM expects to see. Considering the current load, engine speed and information received from other sensors.

Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions

The main signal that an error P0080 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.

It can also be warning signs such as:

  1. The “Check engine” control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be written in the memory as a malfunction).
  2. Uneven idling.
  3. In some cases, ignition skips.
  4. Decrease of the engine power.
  5. The engine stalls or fails to start.
  6. Bad acceleration.
  7. Increased fuel consumption.

Error P0080 is considered serious, as it directly affects the correct operation of the engine. If it is not corrected in time, it may require expensive repairs.

Factors that can cause this error code

The error code P0080 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:

  • Short-circuited or open circuit in exhaust valve control solenoid.
  • Corroded electrical connectors.
  • Low or contaminated engine oil level.
  • Clogged oil system.
  • Defective control solenoid.
  • Defective camshaft drive.
  • Timing chain or belt is loose or misaligned.
  • In rare cases, PCM malfunction.

How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P0080

Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P0080:

  1. Visually inspect the electrical wiring and the exhaust valve control solenoid connector.
  2. Test to see if the position of the exhaust valves changes.
  3. Inspect the timing belt, including the actuator and belt.
  4. Check the engine oil level and condition.
  5. If no problem is found, test and replace the PCM if necessary.

Diagnose and repair of problems

Starting the diagnosis of error P0080, you must check the engine oil level and adjust it to the correct level. If the engine oil is at the correct level, of the correct type, perform an oil pressure check.

Low oil pressure is a frequent cause of this code, although not many people attach importance to it. If the oil pressure is out of specification, find and correct the cause before proceeding with further diagnosis.

Checking the wires

If the oil pressure is within specification, conduct a thorough inspection of all necessary wires and connectors. Then repair any defects, but be sure to check the circuit for reference voltage, continuity, and ground contact.

If the wiring or connectors have been repaired, reset the code, start the engine, and scan again to see if the code is retained. If the code persists, there may be an intermittent fault, and it will need to be aggravated to make an accurate diagnosis.

Mechanical check

If inspection and testing of the electrical circuit shows no malfunction, the actuators and control mechanisms should be removed. Inspect them for damage or sediment that may interfere with their operation. Clean all components, if necessary, and verify operation before reinstalling them.

If the actuator or actuator controls are operated manually, it is likely that the internal oil passages in the motor may be clogged. Reinstall all components and flush the engine with a suitable cleaner. To dissolve possible sludge or clogging in the VVT or VCS oil circuit.

If the malfunction persists despite all previous repair attempts, the PCM should be tested. PCM defects and failures are extremely rare, but do not rule out the possibility of error P0080 due to a faulty module.

On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently

Fault code P0080 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:

  • BMW
  • Chevrolet (Aveo, Tahoe)
  • Dodge (Caravan)
  • Ford
  • Hyundai (Elantra)
  • Kia (Ceed, Sorento)
  • Mercedes-Benz
  • Mitsubishi (Lancer)
  • Opel (Antara)
  • Toyota (Prius)

Fault code P0080 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P0027, P0029, P0078, P0079, P0084, P0085, P0086.

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