Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Low (Bank 2)
The P0086 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Low (Bank 2). This is a moderate severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Short distances only
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- $80 - $450 (parts and labor)
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Common Symptoms
- Check Engine Light on
- Unstable idle
- Reduced power from Bank 2
- Possible exhaust odor
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Short to ground in Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid wiring Very High
- Internally shorted exhaust VVT solenoid High
- Heat-damaged wiring near exhaust manifold Moderate
- PCM driver fault Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Measure exhaust VVT solenoid resistance on Bank 2. Below 5 ohms indicates internal short.
-
Inspect wiring for heat damage where it routes near the Bank 2 exhaust manifold.
-
Disconnect solenoid and check harness for short to ground.
-
Compare resistance to Bank 1 exhaust VVT solenoid for reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does heat cause VVT solenoid wiring problems?
Exhaust VVT solenoid wiring runs close to hot exhaust components. Temperatures can exceed 800F at the manifold, which over time melts wire insulation and creates shorts.
How do I check for a short to ground?
Disconnect the solenoid, then use a multimeter set to continuity. Touch one probe to each wire at the harness connector and the other to a good engine ground. Any continuity indicates a short.
Is P0086 common on V6 engines?
Yes, Bank 2 exhaust VVT codes are common on V6 engines because the wiring on the rear bank is more exposed to heat and harder to inspect.
Sources
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
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