A Honda CRV with a P2646 error code is having an issue with the oil pressure.
A P2646 code in a Honda can have various symptoms, such as stalling or going into Limp Mode.
What is a Honda CRV P2646 OBDII Error Code?
A P2646 OBDII error code is an “P2646: Rocker arm actuator A- Bank 1 Perf. or Stuck off.”
Some OBDII scan tools will also give a “A Rocker Arm Actuator System Performance or Stuck Off Bank 1.” or “VTEC Oil Pressure Switch Circuit Low Voltage.”
The main problem is the onboard computer (ECM) is seeing a problem with the oil pressure.
3 Common Causes and Fixes P2646 Honda CRV
- Low or Dirty Oil
- Oil Pressure Switch
- VTEC Solenoid
If the oil is low or old and dirty, it can cause a P2646 error code in a Honda CRV.
Cheap oil filters have also been known to cause issues in some cases.
Check the oil and be sure it is not low and it has been changed recently or in the last 3000 miles or so.
If it is low or dirty, replace it, clear the code and drive the vehicle 15-20 miles.
If the code does not come back, the oil is the problem. If the code does come back, then there is another issue.
An oil pressure switch that has failed can also cause a P2646 error code.
The ECM reads the oil pressure information from the sensor, and if it has failed, the ECM will get bad data and throw the code.
The wiring going to the sensor can also cause a problem if there is an open or a short.
The VTEC Solenoid Spool can become clogged and dirty, which limits the oil from passing through it.
A small filter inside the solenoid commonly gets clogged up, which blocks the oil.
The solenoid is usually located at the back of the engine on the firewall.
Newer Honda’s will have a Variable Timing Solenoid, while older cars will have a VTEC Solenoid Spool.
Summary
A Honda CRV with a P2646 is having a problem with oil pressure which several components can cause.
A P2646 code is a common problem with Honda and often is caused by dirty oil or age.
Be sure to check the oil level, as low oil can cause problems.
The oil pressure switch can also cause the error and should be tested to see if it has failed.
The VTEC Solenoid often becomes clogged up after many miles and needs to be replaced.
Have you had issues with a Honda CRV and a P2646 OBDII error code? Let us know your thoughts below.