OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic)
P003C A Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Performance/Stuck Off Bank 1
The intake cam profile actuator (profile A, bank 1) does not engage when commanded — stays in low-lift profile. Often hydraulic pin sticking or low oil pressure.
Is it safe to drive with P003C?
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 stuck
- PossibleLow oil pressure
- Less likelyCarbon or debris buildup preventing free movement
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Power loss especially in mid-rpm range
- Possible rough idle or stalling
- Increased fuel consumption
Repair at a glance
- Difficulty
- Medium
- DIY friendly
- Often, with basic tools
- Typical labour
- 0.5–5 h
- Emissions test
- Likely to fail
- After the fix
- A drive cycle is needed before the light stays off
- Parts involved
- Cam Profile Actuator, Oil Control Valve, Engine Oil
Related codes
- P003EA Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Performance/Stuck Off Bank 2
- P005AB Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Performance/Stuck Off Bank 1
- P005CB Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Performance/Stuck Off Bank 2
- P2B4FA Camshaft Profile Actuator B Control Performance/Stuck Off Bank 1
- P2B50A Camshaft Profile Actuator B Control Performance/Stuck Off Bank 2
- P2B51B Camshaft Profile Actuator B Control Performance/Stuck Off Bank 1
- P2B52B Camshaft Profile Actuator B Control Performance/Stuck Off Bank 2
- P0039Turbocharger/Supercharger Bypass Valve A Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P003ATurbocharger/Supercharger Boost Control A Position Exceeded Learning Limit
- P003BTurbocharger/Supercharger Boost Control B Position Exceeded Learning Limit
- P003DA Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Stuck On Bank 1
- P003FA Camshaft Profile Actuator A Control Stuck On Bank 2
Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.