[WyreTheWolf]

I am getting this error code P25CA does anyone know what it is and how to fix it?

[arpad_m]

https://grok.com is your friend

[WyreTheWolf]

Thank you for the reply, but I think Grok is wrong. Everything I have been able to find is that code is related to the Bank 1 intake cam VVT system. I just went over 45,000 miles, I am hoping it isn't a complete timing chain set replacement.

[arpad_m]

Okay, I see, it's quite possible. Assuming you only used a simple code reader, a midrange or better scan tool may be willing to provide more info. I haven't found a more reliable explanation and never saw this code myself either (had a V6 before my current Camaro).

[bishopts]

Its not a code I've ran into either.
For GM 3.6 engines MOST every one that i need to do timing repairs the problem is in the cam gears.
Looking at live data i usually see a variance in commanded degrees and actual degrees of cam activation. I always put new chains in since I'm there too. I do one every month or two. The only correlation i usually see is 7000+ mile oil changes. But I'm usually seeing p0017 p0011 things like that.
My opinion would be find someone with a scanner that can read the ABS module and see if codes are there first.

[WyreTheWolf]

A P0011 code was also in memory, but was not active at the time. I guess I will need to take it to the dealership to get a good diagnostic on the car.

Thank you,

[bishopts]

That would make sense. Having a code in the ECM will trigger a code in the EBCM (abs module).
If you look at the EBCM codes it's probably going to be "invalid data recived from ECM"
So with that code being there the ECM picked it up and sent the P25CA which is basically the same thing. "Invalid serial data recived from EBCM" so... it's a code loop. The p0011 is the more important one to chase. Correction of that code will more than likely solve the other codes.

Try doing an oil change and clearing all the codes out. A simple code reader will clear the ECM but not the EBCM. You could try clearing the ECM then disconnect the battery for a few mins. That might clear the EBCM codes.

[WyreTheWolf]

Oil is changed every 4500 miles, last oil change was about three weeks ago.

[bishopts]

Most mechanics are dumb as shit. Especially dealership mechanics. You need to look at CMP variance data to verify your p0011 failure. So since you need to see that and dont have the tools, you need a mechanic to do it for you. I would guess they would try and just sell you an engine and feed you the line that it can't be fixed with a timing chain and phasers because they make more money swapping out an engine and the chains are hard to them. As you can tell if been a mechanic for 24 years and have zero faith in others mechanics.
Autel mx808s is $378 on amazon right now. It's roughly the same price as taking your car to a dealer and getting it diagnosed. You can look at the data you need with it and also command the CMP activation to further monitor its performance. You could also read all modules and clear codes with it.

The cam phaser has the outer ring that the chain attaches to and the inner hub that the cam attaches to. Where they mesh together is a variable position oil cavity. Apply oil to one side and it will advance the cam, Apply oil to the other and it will retard the cam. The problem comes when it can't hold its position or cant even move to the commanded degrees. If the two parts physically seize then you will see a command degree of like 15 and actual of 0. If the 2 parts are very worn and losing oil pressure inside itself , then you will see a command of 15 degrees and actual will be moving alot within a range that is close . Like 5 to 15 degrees but never stable.
They also have park pins in them. Those mechanically lock them to 0 degrees. If you have one that isn't commanded but is still showing advance degrees, the park pin has a failure.

[WyreTheWolf]

Originally Posted by bishopts

Most mechanics are dumb as shit. Especially dealership mechanics. You need to look at CMP variance data to verify your p0011 failure. So since you need to see that and dont have the tools, you need a mechanic to do it for you. I would guess they would try and just sell you an engine and feed you the line that it can't be fixed with a timing chain and phasers because they make more money swapping out an engine and the chains are hard to them. As you can tell if been a mechanic for 24 years and have zero faith in others mechanics.
Autel mx808s is $378 on amazon right now. It's roughly the same price as taking your car to a dealer and getting it diagnosed. You can look at the data you need with it and also command the CMP activation to further monitor its performance. You could also read all modules and clear codes with it.

The cam phaser has the outer ring that the chain attaches to and the inner hub that the cam attaches to. Where they mesh together is a variable position oil cavity. Apply oil to one side and it will advance the cam, Apply oil to the other and it will retard the cam. The problem comes when it can't hold its position or cant even move to the commanded degrees. If the two parts physically seize then you will see a command degree of like 15 and actual of 0. If the 2 parts are very worn and losing oil pressure inside itself , then you will see a command of 15 degrees and actual will be moving alot within a range that is close . Like 5 to 15 degrees but never stable.
They also have park pins in them. Those mechanically lock them to 0 degrees. If you have one that isn't commanded but is still showing advance degrees, the park pin has a failure.

I was quoted $5159.52 for a complete timing system replacement.


24 Hrs labor at $130 per hour $3120.00
Engine timing chain kit $1114.91
Crankshaft Seal $36.35
Valve cover gaskets $105.18
Intake manifold gasket $80.12
Water Pump $190.43
Coolant $41.92
Oil $ 32.04
Oil Filter $23.62

Labor $3120.00
Parts $1624.57
Supplies $54.99
Tax 7.5% $359.96
Total $5159.52

[bishopts]

Originally Posted by WyreTheWolf

I was quoted $5159.52 for a complete timing system replacement.


24 Hrs labor at $130 per hour $3120.00
Engine timing chain kit $1114.91
Crankshaft Seal $36.35
Valve cover gaskets $105.18
Intake manifold gasket $80.12
Water Pump $190.43
Coolant $41.92
Oil $ 32.04
Oil Filter $23.62

Labor $3120.00
Parts $1624.57
Supplies $54.99
Tax 7.5% $359.96
Total $5159.52

Damn... i don't think we charge half of that

[WyreTheWolf]

It was a single bad part, price $25

Camshaft Position Actuator Locator Pin Control Valve GM-12647904

Single clip and a 10mm bolt.

[bishopts]

Originally Posted by WyreTheWolf

It was a single bad part, price $25

Camshaft Position Actuator Locator Pin Control Valve GM-12647904

Single clip and a 10mm bolt.

How did it look? Usually when i see the solenoids fail they have metal debris or sludge on the inlet screens.

Also you have 4 so how did you know which one to change without a scan tool?

[WyreTheWolf]

The code P25CA points to specifically Bank 1 Intake. I tested the thresholds with a volt meter and it read open circuit, no value. I tested the others and they were all around 230K Ohm to 250K Ohm. It looks normal, no junk in it, or sludge. Just looks like the solenoid failed.

Anyway, it is a $25 dollar part and it will be here in a few days.