Guide To P0082 OBD Error Code Solutions

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Are you experiencing decreased engine performance and acceleration? Is there a problem of reduced fuel economy? Is your car’s Check Engine Light On and the vehicle is going into failsafe mode? Then, there can be a problem of OBD Code P0082 being stored in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) of the vehicle.

OBD Code P0082 is defined as an Intake Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Low (Bank 2)

Whenever there is an issue of Intake Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Low in the engine Bank 2, the PCM stores the OBD code P0082 and flashes it.

Bank 2 refers to the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder 1 - be sure to verify according to manufacturer’s specifications. The intake valve control solenoid is usually located on the intake manifold side of the cylinder head. This code is similar to codes P0081 and P0083. This code may also be accompanied by P0028.

This problem is specific to engine Bank 2 and occurs with the inconsistent performance from the intake valve control solenoid. This can impact the engine’s performance as the PCM is unable to control the opening and closing of the exhaust valve properly and is unable to improve the engine’s fuel consumption adequately.

This sets a Check Engine Light on the dash and puts the vehicle into a failsafe mode. In addition, the variable valve timing system is disabled until the intake valve solenoid bank 2 proper range is detected.

What causes the problem of Intake Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Low (Bank 2)?

• Problematic intake valve control solenoid bank 2
• Open/Shortage in Solenoid wiring/harness
• Faulty ECM/PCM
• Damaged/faulty electrical connection to the solenoid and circuit

1. Engine Control Module - Faulty ECM will affect the exhaust system and this the engine performance and output. Replace faulty ECM components immediately.
2. Variable Valve Timing - Faulty/damaged VVT will reduce the performance, fuel economy or emissions of the vehicle. Thus, it is important to replace it immediately.
3. Intake Manifold Solenoid - If the solenoid is faulty, it can affect the air intake system and thus, it is important to replace it now!
4. Diagnostic Tools - Factory grade diagnostic and scan tools are necessary to treat the OBD Code P0082 error correctly.

If the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects the low voltage in the bank 2 control solenoid and this causes a Check Engine Light to be illuminated on the dashboard.

The ECM also puts the vehicle into a failsafe mode to protect the car and prevent damage. This failsafe mode disables the variable valve timing system.

Common Symptoms

• Lack of acceleration
• Loss of engine power
• Reduced fuel economy
• Check Engine Light Illumination
• Increased emissions

Following are the major components that when replaced or repaired can solve P0082 error and can be avoided to return with proper diagnosis.

• ECM/PCM replacement
• Wiring harness replacement or repairing
• Solving connection issues in relation to the circuit
• Replacement of the bank 2 intake valve control solenoid

Use a DVOM to diagnose this OBD code problem. Pay attention to the circuit between the ECM and the VVT solenoid valve, as well as the solenoid valve itself.

• Take the help of a qualified technician to use a scan tool and confirm whether P0082 is present.
• Find and freeze frame data with the code. Then, clear the code.
• Take the vehicle on a test drive under the same conditions.
• If the code reappears, perform a visual inspection of the solenoid circuit and its wiring.
• If the wiring is okay, the sensor itself will be tested to confirm operation.
• If the solenoid is functioning properly, the technician must check the Engine Control Unit (ECU) for any faults and damages.
• If all the components are working properly, check for faults in the PCM and replace or reprogram according to the situation.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0082 Code

It is important to inspect all the components properly before directly jumping to the PCM or the solenoid for the diagnosis. This way you can avoid the OBD error from reappearing as well as save on future costs as repairs of faults in the wirings are much cheaper that replacing a perfectly healthy sensor or PCM without knowing the main reason of the problem. 

• Sensor solenoid circuit not inspected properly
• Not checking for damaged connections to the solenoid circuit. Thus, proper diagnosis is necessary in correct order to properly diagnose OBD code P0082 error.