What is the P2646 fault number? What is “A” Rocker Actuator System Performance/Stuck (Bank 1) failure and what does it mean? What is the cause of the P2646 error code? How to fix the ?….fault code P2646
What is the P2646 fault code? What does it signify?
P2646 is often associated to poor engine performance. It is a general OBD-II fault code for powertrains.
Some vehicles, like the Honda Civic, can be equipped with Bluetooth. A “Variable timing valve control system / VTEC” . This system makes sure that your engine runs at its best by automatically determining the timing of each valve at different engine speeds. It is therefore more efficient at low revs and offers high performance at higher revs.
Before you can discuss the possible causes of this fault, it is important to understand the role of the rocker arms as well as the camshafts.
A series of valves opens and closes to allow air to flow into and out of the cylinders. The position of the pistons determines the timing of the valves. The crankshaft drives the camshafts using the timing belt/timing chain. The rocker arms are then pressed by camshafts. Rocker arms are used to open and close intake or exhaust valves. The cylinders are also provided with an air inlet or outlet.
The ECM/ECU (Engine Control Module) controls the rocker actuator, which is used to regulate the oil hydraulic circuit. To adjust the engine’s timing, oil flows from the rocker to the VTEC system. VTEC is used to increase engine performance, fuel economy, or emissions. If the ECM detects problems with the rocker circuit, it will emit a code P2646.
P2646 is a code that indicates an issue with Bank 1’s ‘A’ rocker actuator system. This means it is not functioning properly or is stuck at the ‘Off” position. The letter A denotes intake camshaft. Bank 1 is the side of engine with cylinder 1.
What is the P2646 Fault Code?
- – Dirty or missing engine oil
- Low oil pressure, which does not meet specifications
- – Incorrect viscosity or too thin engine oil
- – Oil channels blocked
- – Rocker oil pressure sensor malfunction (VTEC)
- – Solenoid to control defective rocker oil (VTEC).
- Cable and connector issues
- – ECM for old software
What are the symptoms for P2646 Fault Code
- Check your engine light is on
- – Reduced engine performance
- – High fuel consumption
- The valves will not run as loudly if they are jammed on the rocker arms.
- – Inconsistent acceleration
How do I fix the P2646 fault code?
Engine oil is most often the root cause of this fault code. Before replacing any part, it is important to have the oil changed. This will usually fix the problem. Repairs can cause damage to your vehicle and wallet if you make a mistake.
- Check the engine oil viscosity. If it is low or damaged, the oil should be replaced with the filter.
- – Oil residues should be removed from the oil channels. The channels should be cleaned and changed to synthetic oil if necessary.
- – If necessary, the “A” rocker actuator must be checked and repaired.
- – If possible, replace or repair the connectors and cables connecting to the actuator.
- – Fault codes must be cleared once the system is repaired.
How important is the P2646 fault code?
Although this fault code is not dangerous, it should be fixed as soon as possible to avoid any serious engine problems. Any code that illuminates the Check Engine Light should be addressed as soon as possible.
It is rare to see the fault code P2646. This code is very common and can be found on a variety of vehicle brands. All engine systems do not have rocker arms or actuators.
Notes on this Fault
Honda issued a service bulletin on July 16th, 2013 for the following models:
2003-2012 Honda Accord L4
2002-2005 Honda Civic Si
2002-2009 Honda CR-V
2011 Honda CR-Z
2003-2011 Honda Element
2007-2011 Honda Fit
This bulletin addresses malfunctions that code P2646 may cause on the vehicles mentioned above. The issue can be resolved by replacing the VTEC oil pressure switch, actuator (P/N37250-PNE–G01; H/C 6737217).
