Fix P0082: Mechanic’s Solutions That WORKED!

The OBD2 code P0082 is about the “Intake Valve Control Circuit Low Voltage Bank 2,” showing that the electrical system controlling the air going into part of the engine isn’t working right. This can make the car feel weak, especially when trying to speed up or when it won’t go above a certain RPM, like 4000.

P0082 quick overview

MeaningP0082: Intake Valve Control Circuit Low Voltage Bank 2
Is it serious?Yes, it can cause noticeable engine performance issues, like rough idling or trouble accelerating.
Possible causes– Problems with the intake valve control solenoid
– Cracks or damage to parts after repairs
– Wiring or electrical issues
– Clogged parts like the catalytic converter
How to diagnose?Check the catalytic converter for clogs that block exhaust.
Verify cam timing to see if it’s set up right.
Test spark advance and look for knock sensor issues.
Replace solenoids as needed, based on codes.
Look for electrical problems like shorted wires or bad connections.
Overview of P0082 trouble code

P0082 Meaning

When your car throws a P0082 code, it’s usually a sign that the system controlling the air entering your engine on one side isn’t getting enough power. This could be from an electrical issue or something mechanical not being put back right after a repair. It leads to your car struggling to pick up speed or keep a smooth ride.

Mechanics often start by checking the electrical parts for any damage or loose connections. They might also suggest looking at other engine parts that, if blocked or off timing, could cause similar issues. The goal is to find where the problem starts, whether it’s with the electrical system, something mechanical, or even the computer that controls the engine.

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How to fix P0082 – learn from mechanics

I looked into P0082 service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.

Case #1: Subaru P0082

Vehicle information
2007 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Special Edition 2.5L

Issue + repair history

  • Complaint of low power and inability to exceed 4000 RPM
  • VVT solenoid bank #1 replaced initially
  • Technician overtightened VVT pressure switches, leading to minor cracks in both cylinder heads
  • Cylinder heads removed and repaired
  • Rear spark plugs replaced due to fuel fouling
  • After crankshaft sensor replacement, vehicle regained ignition but still experienced low power and RPM limitation

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

  • DTC P0082: Intake valve control circuit low voltage bank 2
  • Timing observed at 35 degrees @ 4000 RPM
  • Front O2 sensor voltage close to 3.0 volts
  • No change observed after disconnecting exhaust system at cylinder head

Mechanic suggestions

  • Calvin Long suggests checking the catalytic converter for possible clogging
  • James McInnis advises checking cam timing, suspecting bank 1 may be off a tooth
  • Tom Keegan recommends verifying spark advance and checking for a bad knock sensor
  • Allan Butler suggests replacing the solenoid for the opposite VVT bank if a code is given for it
  • Timothy Mitchell recommends checking for a shorted wire, bad PCM, or internally shorted solenoid for the P0082 code, and also suggests investigating fuel control issues indicated by the O2 sensor reading

Final fix
A loose connection at the ECM black corner ground connection was found to be the issue. Replacing the connector resolved the problem.

Case #2: Chevrolet P0082

Vehicle information
2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ 5.3L V8

Issue + repair history

  • Complaint of low power and rough idle
  • Replaced intake valve control solenoid bank 2
  • Inspected wiring harness for poor connections or corrosion

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

  • DTC P0082: Intake valve control circuit low voltage bank 2
  • No other codes present
  • Live data shows low voltage signal from intake valve control solenoid bank 2

Mechanic suggestions

  • Checked for clogged catalytic converter (none found)
  • Verified cam timing (normal)
  • Inspected spark advance (normal)
  • Recommended checking fuel adaptives for fuel control issues

Final fix
Replacing the intake valve control solenoid bank 2 resolved the low voltage issue, restoring engine performance and idle quality.

Case #3: Dodge P0082

Vehicle information
2016 Dodge Charger R/T 5.7L V8

Issue + repair history

  • Experienced rough idle and hesitation during acceleration
  • Replaced intake valve control solenoid bank 2
  • Conducted thorough inspection of wiring harness for any signs of damage or corrosion

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

  • DTC P0082: Intake valve control circuit low voltage bank 2
  • No additional codes detected
  • Live data revealed low voltage signal from intake valve control solenoid bank 2

Mechanic suggestions

  • Checked for exhaust restriction (none found)
  • Verified cam timing (normal)
  • Inspected spark advance (normal)
  • Advised checking fuel adaptives for potential fuel control issues

Final fix
Replacement of the intake valve control solenoid bank 2 resolved the low voltage issue, eliminating rough idle and hesitation symptoms.

How to diagnose P0082

I made you an overview of solving this DTC, based on all the advice that was suggested by certified mechanics to address this issue in previously mentioned service cases.

Diagnostic StepBrief Explanation
Check catalytic converterLook for blockages that could restrict exhaust flow.
Verify cam timingEnsure the engine’s timing is correct, which affects performance.
Test spark advance and knock sensorConfirm that the engine is advancing spark correctly for efficiency.
Replace necessary solenoidsSwap out faulty solenoids that control air flow to the engine.
Inspect for electrical issuesCheck wires and connections for damage or shorts.
Address fuel control issuesInvestigate unusual fuel mixtures or delivery problems.
Reconnect or replace faulty connectorsFix or secure any loose or damaged electrical connectors.
diagnostic training

Car Diagnostics Training

  • Car Electrical basics
  • OBD-II scanner basics
  • How to use an OBD reader
  • Introduction to a Bi-directional Scan tool
  • OBD scanner buyer’s guide + discounts

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