OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic)
P0026 Intake Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 1)
The ECU detected that the bank 1 intake valve oil control solenoid does not respond as expected. Common causes are sludge in the oil passages, a sticking solenoid, or low oil pressure that prevents proper VVT phasing on the intake side.
Is it safe to drive with P0026?
Usually safe to drive in the short term. Get it diagnosed when convenient, sooner if the car drives differently.
Common causes
- Most likelyOil control valve mechanically stuck
- PossibleSludge or debris in oil passages
- PossibleLow oil pressure or wrong oil viscosity
Repair at a glance
- Difficulty
- Medium
- DIY friendly
- Often, with basic tools
- Typical labour
- 0.5–3 h
- Emissions test
- Likely to fail
- After the fix
- A drive cycle is needed before the light stays off
- Parts involved
- Oil Control Valve, Camshaft Position Actuator, Engine Oil
Related codes
- P0028Intake Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 2)
- P0023"B" Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 2)
- P0024"B" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced (Bank 2)
- P0025"B" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 2)
- P0027Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Range/Performance Bank 1
- P0029Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Range/Performance Bank 2
Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.