Is it safe to drive with this code?

Driving may be possible in the short term, but it's not advisable for extended periods. The engine may lack power, consume more fuel, and risk internal wear if the problem relates to oil contamination or incorrect valve timing. See our site disclaimer for more information on individual circumstances.

It may affect your MOT outcome—what matters is whether the engine warning light is illuminated at the time of the test. A lit MIL typically results in a major failure under current standards. Refer to our disclaimer for full MOT guidance.

Roughly how much does it cost to fix?

Costs vary widely depending on the root cause. A simple oil and filter change sits in the low two-figure range. Replacing a camshaft solenoid or actuator with labour often falls in the low to mid three-figure bracket at an independent garage, while main dealers may charge toward the high three-figure mark. More involved internal work can reach four-figure sums if mechanical damage is present. Always obtain a diagnostic assessment before committing to repairs.

What's the difference between Bank 1 and Bank 2?

Bank 1 is the engine bank containing cylinder number 1, while Bank 2 refers to the opposite side on V-configuration or horizontally-opposed engines. On inline engines, only one bank exists, so this designation may vary by manufacturer—consult your vehicle's service data for certainty.

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← All fault codes | Timing

P003E

Powertrain

A Camshaft Profile Control Circuit Performance/Stuck Off Bank 2

The engine control module has detected that the variable valve timing system on Bank 2 (typically the side without cylinder 1) is not responding correctly or appears stuck in the 'off' position.

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ⓘ Information only. This page provides general educational information about fault code P003E. We do not assess the urgency or safety implications of any specific fault. That requires in-person diagnosis by a qualified mechanic. Full terms.

Recommended next steps

Whether a fault is urgent, drivable, or routine depends entirely on the cause on a specific vehicle, and that can only be determined by a qualified mechanic with diagnostic equipment. If a warning light is illuminated, the most reliable next step is professional diagnosis.

What does P003E mean?

P003E is a Powertrain (engine, transmission, fuel system) fault code. It indicates: A Camshaft Profile Control Circuit Performance/Stuck Off Bank 2.

This is a standardised OBD-II code. The technical definition is the same regardless of the make or model of vehicle, although specific causes and symptoms can vary between vehicles.

About Timing codes

Timing codes relate to the variable valve timing (VVT) system, cam position, crank position, or the correlation between them. On engines prone to timing chain stretch (BMW N47, Ford EcoBoost, VAG TFSI), these codes often signal a stretched chain rather than a sensor fault.

P003E is one of 160 codes in this category. Browse all Timing codes →

What we know about P003E specifically

We record the SAE J2012 standardised definition and the system this code belongs to, but we have not yet published detailed driver-reported symptoms, common causes, or step-by-step diagnostic guidance for P003E.

Rather than invent that information by generating generic content from a template, we leave it out. For specific guidance, the most reliable sources are:

•your vehicle's own service manual or manufacturer-specific technical bulletins
•a qualified mechanic with a manufacturer-level diagnostic tool
•a marque specialist familiar with your make and model

Codes nearby

Codes adjacent to P003E in the P-code series. Many fault codes appear together with their neighbours because they relate to the same circuit or component.

P003B Turbocharger/Supercharger Boost Control B Position Exceeded Learning Limit

P003C A Camshaft Profile Control Circuit Performance/Stuck Off Bank 1

P003D A Camshaft Profile Control Circuit Stuck On Bank 1

P003F A Camshaft Profile Control Circuit Stuck On Bank 2

P0040 O2 Sensor Signals Swapped Bank 1 Sensor 1 / Bank 2 Sensor 1

P0041 O2 Sensor Signals Swapped Bank 1 Sensor 2 / Bank 2 Sensor 2

Other Timing codes

Other fault codes in the same system as P003E. The ones with detailed guides have plain-English explanations, symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

P0010

"A" Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1) Detailed guide

P0011

"A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1) Detailed guide

P0012

"A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 1) Detailed guide

P0014

"B" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1) Detailed guide

P0016

Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A) Detailed guide

P0017

Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor B) Detailed guide

Spotted an issue or have something to add? Mechanics, technicians, and drivers who have first-hand experience with P003E can submit a correction or expansion. We review every submission before publishing, mechanic submissions are prioritised.

Information only, not professional advice

The information on this page is provided for general guidance and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for diagnosis or repair advice from a qualified mechanic. Always verify any fault before paying for repairs. carfaultcodes.co.uk accepts no liability for decisions made based on this information. Full terms →

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