P1387

Ford

Variable Cam Timing Solenoid #2 Circuit Malfunction

Definition source: Manufacturer reference catalog
Definition verification: Not independently verified for display.
Time: Varies by diagnosis and vehicle | Diagnostic difficulty: Medium
Medium Severity

The engine computer has detected a fault in the electrical circuit for variable cam timing solenoid #2. That solenoid regulates oil flow used to adjust cam timing. If the control circuit or solenoid does not respond as expected, cam timing may not follow commands, which can affect engine operation. The code does not by itself prove the solenoid has failed, and some vehicles may show no noticeable symptoms.

Report an error with this code

⚠️ Before You Begin (Safety First)

If the engine stalls, loses power severely, or develops an unusual mechanical noise, stop driving when safe and arrange an inspection. If the check-engine light is flashing, reduce load and stop driving if the engine runs roughly; continued driving may cause damage.

Common Symptoms

  • The check-engine light may be on, with no obvious change in how the engine runs.
  • Rough idle or hesitation may occur if cam timing does not respond properly to control commands.
  • Reduced power or sluggish acceleration may occur if the engine cannot achieve the intended cam timing.
  • Fuel economy may worsen if cam timing operation is affected.
  • The engine may stall or run poorly in more serious cases, though the code alone does not establish that these symptoms are present.

Common Causes

  • A damaged, disconnected, or poorly seated solenoid connector can interrupt or disturb the circuit.
  • Chafed, broken, corroded, or otherwise damaged wiring can prevent proper electrical control.
  • Variable cam timing solenoid #2 may have an internal electrical fault.
  • A control-side fault, including an issue with the engine computer or its circuit connections, is possible and requires testing before condemning a component.
  • Low, incorrect, or degraded engine oil may interfere with variable cam timing operation, but does not by itself prove an electrical-circuit failure.

Diagnostic Steps

  1. Record the code and any available freeze-frame information before clearing anything; this helps preserve the conditions when the fault was detected.
  2. With the engine off and cool, visually inspect accessible wiring and the solenoid connector for looseness, damage, or corrosion. Do not pull on wires or force a connector.
  3. Check the engine-oil level and condition using the vehicle owner's manual. Correct any obvious oil-level issue with the specified oil, but do not treat that as proof the circuit fault is repaired.
  4. If the code returns, arrange circuit and solenoid testing using service information for the exact vehicle. Avoid replacing parts solely from the code description.

When to Call a Professional

Confirm the code and review available freeze-frame and cam-timing data. Inspect the solenoid connector and harness, then test the circuit and solenoid using the wiring diagram and service information for the exact model, year, and engine. Check engine-oil level and condition because the timing system depends on oil flow, but do not replace the solenoid based on the code alone.

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Commonly Asked Questions

Does P1387 prove variable cam timing solenoid #2 is bad?

No. It identifies a detected circuit malfunction, not the failed part. The connector, wiring, solenoid, or control side must be checked.

Does “#2” identify a particular bank?

Not from this code description alone. Use the model-, year-, and engine-specific service information to identify the circuit and component.

Can an oil problem cause this code?

Oil condition or level can affect variable cam timing operation, but this code describes a solenoid circuit malfunction. Check the oil, and test the electrical circuit separately.

Can I keep driving with P1387?

If the engine runs normally, a short cautious trip for diagnosis may be reasonable. Stop if it stalls, loses power severely, develops unusual mechanical noise, or runs roughly with a flashing check-engine light.

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