Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Low (Bank 2)
The P0085 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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What Are the Symptoms of P0085?
- Check Engine Light on
- Rough idle or reduced performance
- Possible stalling at low speed
- Reduced fuel economy
What Causes P0085? (Most Likely First)
- Control wire shorted to ground or chafed through its insulation High
- Failed solenoid with a shorted coil High
- Corroded or damaged connector at the solenoid Moderate
- Engine computer driver fault Low
Can I Still Drive with P0085?
Short distances only. P0085 is rated moderate severity. Keep trips short and get it diagnosed soon rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0085 mean?
P0085 means Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Low (Bank 2). The engine computer sees the voltage on the solenoid control circuit lower than expected, which usually points to a short to ground or a shorted solenoid.
Is P0085 the same as P0079?
It is the Bank 2 version of P0079. The same diagnostic approach applies on the opposite side of the engine.
Can low or dirty oil cause this code?
Oil problems usually set camshaft position or timing codes rather than a circuit code. This code points to the electrical side: the solenoid, its wiring, or its connector.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
How Do You Diagnose P0085?
-
Locate the Bank 2 exhaust valve control solenoid. Bank 2 is the side of the engine without cylinder 1.
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Inspect the connector and harness for damage, corrosion, oil intrusion or chafing against brackets.
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Measure the solenoid's resistance and compare it with the specification in your service information.
-
Check the control wire for a short to ground, then command the solenoid with a scan tool and watch the circuit voltage.
Sources 2
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines the generic OBD-II code ranges)
- Cross-checked against the SAE J2012:2002 DTC table (2026-08-27)archived scan of the SAE standard — readable copy, not SAE’s current edition
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