Error Code P0029: What It Means & What To Do?

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There can be various reasons for P0029 being flashed ranging from contaminated engine oil, to some faults in the valve control solenoid and Defects in the engine harness wiring. The faults in the powertrain control module always the first indication for P0029 OBD code error problem.

This error code starts appearing when the powertrain control module starts to determine some problems with the variable valve timing solenoid in charge of controlling the exhaust valves. The VVT solenoid may take a lot of time to engage or may not even engage at all.

What causes this problem with the Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit?

• The engine oil may be low or contaminated
• The engine oil system may face blockage
• Engine oil specifications may not meet vehicle engine requirements
• There can be some faults in the valve control solenoid
• Timing chain/belt may be stretched or not adjusted properly
• Defects in the engine harness wiring
• The camshaft actuator may be faulty
• Faults in the Powertrain Control Module

1. Powertrain Control Module - The P0029 code can also arise due to some issues in the powertrain control module. So, it is advised to replace them as soon as possible.
2. Camshaft Actuator - There can be some defects in the Camshaft Actuator due to which P0029 code may come on again and again. Make sure to replace it or else you may have to face some major issues.
3. Valve Control Solenoid - Facing some issues with Valve Control Solenoid? Find top notch Valve Control Solenoid online from us.
4. Timing Chain - Common cause behind this P0029 error code can be some fault in timing chain. So, it will be a good decision to replace them now.
5. Timing Belt - Powertrain Control Module is perfectly fine but still but having that trouble code P0029 flashing? In such a situation your Timing Belt might be faulty. Why don’t you think of getting that replaced?
6. Engine Oil - Are you facing OBD Error Code P0029? Don’t worry as you can fix this issue with new engine oil.
7. Engine Harness - Common cause behind this P0029 error code can be some fault in engine harness. So, it will be a good decision to replace them now.

There are several common symptoms of an error code P0029, which can include:

Common Symptoms

• There might be lack of power in the engine if the valve lift fails in the low position
• The engine may start running roughly
• The engine will run very erratic at idle and on acceleration
• The check engine will start illuminating indicating a problem

It is important to recognize the components that need to be examined properly so that the correct parts can be replaced or repaired for correct functioning.

• There can be some oil contamination/specification problems, so you must start by replacing engine oil and filter
• The failed valve control solenoid should be carefully replaced
• Try to repair or replace the damaged engine harness wiring
• The timing chain/belt and tensioner should be readjusted replaced if found faulty
• Replace the defective camshaft actuator
• The faulty powertrain control module should be replaced

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• All the wiring and connectors should be visually inspected
• The shorted or burned wiring should be searched and the circuitry and connectors should be replaced accordingly
• If the system wiring, connectors, and components appear to be in normal working order, then you must connect the scanner to the diagnostic connector and all the stored trouble codes should be recorded and freeze frame data
• This information would be extremely helpful in diagnosing intermittent conditions that may have contributed to this code being stored
• Now once all the codes have been cleared up, then you must operate the vehicle to check if the code returns
• If the code is failing to immediately return, then you may have an intermittent condition
• Intermittent conditions can prove quite challenging to diagnose and in extreme cases may have to be allowed to worsen before a correct diagnosis can be made. Typically, the PCM has not detected the desired response to one or more electronic commands and a code has been set
• The main cause of this code can be decrease in the oil level, with other causes including a faulty control solenoid or actuator, clogged oil passages, or misaligned timing belt or chain
• You can always check the engine oil level or pressure. If no abnormalities are detected in the oiling system, then you can check the electrical wiring and connectors

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0029 Code

• If you want to verify the failure, then you can always clear the code and check if the issue still exists or not
• There is a special tool like a test solenoid which can be used in attempting any diagnosis
• If you are willing to isolate the failure on the system, the you must carefully follow the pinpoint test step by step
• Don’t replace any parts unless and until the pinpoint or visual testing directs