P0085 moderate

Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit (Bank 2)

The P0085 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit (Bank 2). This is a moderate severity code.

My Garage →
Keep driving?
Short distances only
DIY difficulty
hard
Estimated cost
$80 - $450 (parts and labor)
Recommended Tool
ANCEL AD310 OBD-II Scanner

Best-selling code reader on Amazon. Reads and clears check engine codes on any 1996+ vehicle. Under $30.

Check Price on Amazon

Affiliate link -- we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Every Tech Needs This
AstroAI Digital Multimeter

Essential for diagnosing sensor codes, checking voltage, and testing circuits. Under $15 and pays for itself on the first job.

Check Price on Amazon

Affiliate link -- we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Common Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light illuminated
  • Rough idle and poor performance
  • Reduced fuel economy
  • Engine stalling at low RPM

Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)

  • Faulty exhaust VVT solenoid on Bank 2 Very High
  • Low or dirty engine oil High
  • Damaged wiring to Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid Moderate
  • PCM driver circuit failure Low

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

  1. Check engine oil level and quality. Change oil if overdue.

  2. Locate Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid. Measure resistance (typical 6.9-7.9 ohms).

  3. Inspect wiring for heat damage from nearby exhaust components.

  4. Use scan tool to command solenoid and monitor Bank 2 exhaust camshaft position.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the exhaust VVT solenoid on Bank 2 do?

It controls oil flow to the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft VVT actuator, adjusting exhaust valve timing on that cylinder bank for optimal performance and emissions.

Is P0085 the same as P0078 but for Bank 2?

Yes, P0085 is the Bank 2 equivalent of P0078. The same diagnostic procedures apply, but on the opposite side of the engine.

Can I drive with P0085?

You can drive short distances, but Bank 2 exhaust valve timing will not be controlled. This can increase emissions and reduce fuel economy.

Sources

This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.

Explore More

Search codes Vehicle-specific fixes Guides By make

Was this helpful?

Share carcodefinder.com with a friend who needs to decode their check engine light.

Browse by symptom → Read repair guides → Fixes by vehicle →