P0027 Code – What Does It Mean & How To Fix It

This is one of the most frequent OBD2 trouble codes. Read the full article below to know what it means, how to fix it, and what other codes may show related to it.

Causes

Common causes for this code include:

• Open or short in wiring between ECM and Exhaust solenoid
• Loose or broken connector with faulty grounding
• The ECM activates the exhaust valve solenoid without changing the lift position.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a P0027 code are:

• The Check Engine Light will come on indicating a problem with the system.
• The engine may stutter or stall upon acceleration.
• Depending on the valve lift position, the engine loses power.
• If the exhaust valves are in the incorrect lift position, the engine will run erratically.

Diagnosis

To diagnose a P0027 DTC code, an automotive technician would:

1. Use a scan tool to clear all codes and test the system to see if P0027 is still present.

2. Check for any wiring issues, connectors and grounds to ensure they are working properly and in good condition.

3. Confirm the DTC by testing or performing a visual inspection of each component in the system to find possible causes and locate the faulty component that needs replacing or repairing.

4. Monitor the engine's performance and road test the vehicle to see if there is a difference in drivability or power.

5. If no problems are found, test control solenoid to diagnose the valve train lift operation

6. Clear all codes and recheck for any that return including P0027

Common mistakes

The following are common mistakes when diagnosing the trouble code P0027:

• Using a generic scan tool and not one designed to work on the specific vehicle.
• Not testing each component for proper working condition or checking wiring or connectors first before replacing parts that could just be loose or corroded.
• Not following proper diagnostic steps or not involving other technicians in the diagnostics process to eliminate possible causes before replacing parts.
• Not checking to see if there are any DTC's present after clearing codes with a scan tool that only resets the MIL/CEL.

How serious is this?

A car with a P0027 trouble code is not in immediate danger and can be driven until it is repaired.

The seriousness of the P0027 trouble code depends on if the control solenoid is fully open or not.

If the solenoid is partially open, it will cause minimal damage to engine performance which can be fixed by replacing the part.

However, if it is fully stuck in position, then parts inside the engine that are connected to it may also become stuck and cause more damage like bent valves which will require more work to repair.

What repairs can fix the code?

The following are solutions that may fix this problem:

• Replacing the control solenoid
• Replacing wiring or connectors that are faulty
• Checking grounds and ensuring they are clean and not corroded
• Repairing loose or corroded connections
• Testing valve for proper lift operation

Related codes

A P0027 is related to and may be accompanied by the following codes:

• P0058 – Exhaust Solenoid Circuit Bank 1
• P0100 – Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Range/Performance Problem
• P0101 – Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Low Input
• P0102 – Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit High Input
• P0420 – Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1 

How much does it cost to fix the P0027 code?

The repair cost of a P0027 code depends on the severity of the problem and if any other related codes are found.

A diagnostic check with a scan tool costs around $100, if the exhaust valves are sticking then the control solenoid may need to be replaced which can cost anywhere from $250 to $500.

Repairs for wiring and connectors that are loose or corroded are typically easy and inexpensive.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the P0027 code is a trouble code that means the exhaust control valve needs to be replaced or repaired. Other related problems could be wiring issues, loose or corroded connections, corrosion, and loose ground connectors.

The P0027 code is not a dangerous code but it can damage the engine if left unattended to.

This problem needs to be repaired as soon as possible because the longer the part breaks, the more expensive repairs will become.