The OBD2 code P0086 points to an issue with the “Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit High Bank 2,” indicating that the circuit controlling the exhaust valves on one side of the engine is getting too much voltage. This can lead to symptoms like rough idles, decreased performance, or intermittent loss of power.
P0086 quick overview
| Meaning | P0086: Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit High Bank 2 |
| Is it serious? | Yes, it can affect the engine’s performance and efficiency. |
| Possible causes | – Faulty wiring or harness – Contamination around the solenoid connector – Issues with the PCM |
| How to diagnose? | Inspect the wiring harness for damage or bad connections. Check for oil contamination around the connector. Ensure a good ground connection to the solenoid. Examine the PCM for damage or moisture intrusion. |
P0086 Meaning
When a P0086 code appears, it’s telling you there’s a problem with the electrical control for the exhaust valves on part of the engine. This means the system that helps let exhaust gases out is getting too much electrical power.
Fixes often involve looking closely at the wiring to make sure there’s no damage or loose connections. Sometimes, the problem could be deeper, like with the car’s computer (PCM), especially if there’s been moisture or other damage.
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How to fix P0086 – learn from mechanics
I looked into P0086 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: Ford P0086
Vehicle information
2017 Ford Mustang GT 5.0L V8
Issue + repair history
- Customer reported check engine light on
- Diagnostic trouble code P0086: Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit High Bank 2 detected
- Previous repair history includes replacement of the exhaust valve control solenoid for bank 2
Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results
- No additional fault codes present
- Live data showed abnormally high voltage reading from exhaust valve control solenoid bank 2
Mechanic suggestions
- Inspected wiring harness for any signs of damage or poor connections
- Checked for excessive oil contamination around the exhaust valve control solenoid connector
- Verified proper ground connection to the exhaust valve control solenoid
Final fix
- Replaced wiring harness for bank 2 exhaust valve control solenoid, resolving the high voltage issue and clearing the P0086 trouble code.
Case #2: Dodge P0086
Vehicle information
2016 Dodge Charger R/T 5.7L V8
Issue + repair history
- Vehicle experiencing rough idle and decreased performance
- Diagnosed with OBD2 trouble code P0086: Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit High Bank 2
- Previous repair attempts included replacing the exhaust valve control solenoid for bank 2
Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results
- No additional fault codes recorded
- Live data indicated unusually high voltage signal from exhaust valve control solenoid bank 2
Mechanic suggestions
- Conducted visual inspection of wiring harness for signs of damage or corrosion
- Tested exhaust valve control solenoid connector for proper voltage supply and ground connection
- Inspected PCM for any signs of internal damage or malfunction
Final fix
- Discovered damaged wiring harness leading to bank 2 exhaust valve control solenoid and repaired the wiring, resolving the high voltage condition and clearing the P0086 trouble code.
Case #3: Chevrolet P0086
Vehicle information
2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS 6.2L V8
Issue + repair history
- Customer complaint of intermittent loss of power and check engine light illumination
- Diagnosed with OBD2 trouble code P0086: Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit High Bank 2
- Previous repair attempts included replacement of the bank 2 exhaust valve control solenoid
Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results
- No additional fault codes detected
- Live data revealed erratic voltage readings from exhaust valve control solenoid bank 2
Mechanic suggestions
- Checked for proper voltage supply and ground connection at exhaust valve control solenoid connector
- Inspected PCM for any signs of moisture intrusion or internal damage
- Conducted thorough visual inspection of wiring harness for bank 2 exhaust valve control solenoid
Final fix
- Replaced PCM and repaired damaged wiring harness leading to bank 2 exhaust valve control solenoid, resolving the high voltage issue and clearing the P0086 trouble code.
How to diagnose P0086
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 Step | Brief Explanation |
|---|---|
| Replace wiring harness | Fixes issues caused by damaged wires leading to the solenoid. |
| Clean solenoid connector | Removes oil or debris that might cause electrical faults. |
| Check ground connection | Ensures the solenoid is properly grounded for stable operation. |
| Replace or repair PCM | Addresses any internal issues with the car’s computer that might lead to overvoltage. |
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
I test OBD-II scanners and make DIY Engine diagnostics guides to help you solve your car problems without having to depend on the mechanic. A lot of them will try to scam you or are just no help at all. About Juraj Lukacko