P0010 on Chevrolet: How to Diagnose & Fix
Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)
1 Chevrolet model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $1,500-$5,000 repair
P0010 on Chevrolet by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The 2.4L Ecotec (LAF/LEA) four-cylinder used in 2010-2017 Equinox (and its GMC Terrain twin) consumes oil at an abnormal rate — frequently as much as 1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles — due to low-tension/stuck oil-control piston rings combined with PCV-system issues that draw oil past the rings. Owners report blue exhaust smoke on startup and acceleration, low-oil warnings between changes, and in severe cases engine damage when the oil level drops unnoticed. GM acknowledged the defect in a 2015 service bulletin instructing dealers to replace the four piston assemblies on affected engines, and nearly 400 NHTSA complaints describe the same failure. A $42M class-action settlement (final approval Nov 2019) covered 2010-2013 vehicles, and a January 2023 suit extended claims to 2014-2017 units.
Common Symptoms
- Low oil level between changes / oil light comes on
- Blue smoke from exhaust on startup or acceleration
- Burning more than 1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles
- Engine knock or damage if run low on oil
- Fouled spark plugs
How to Fix
Have an oil-consumption test performed (documented quart-per-mile measurement) to qualify for goodwill/settlement coverage. The proper repair is replacement of all four piston assemblies with updated rings; clean or replace the PCV orifice and check for carbon buildup. Check oil at every fuel fill as an interim measure to avoid running low. If out of coverage, expect ring/piston replacement or, where the engine was damaged from oil starvation, a long-block replacement.
Sources for this issue (1)
P0010 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0010 mean on a Chevrolet?
P0010 stands for "Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)." This code points to an electrical problem in the intake camshaft position actuator (variable valve timing) circuit on Bank 1. The computer controls an oil-fed solenoid to advance or retard the intake camshaft for better performance and efficiency, and it has detected the solenoid circuit is open, shorted, or out of range. This is usually an electrical or solenoid fault rather than a mechanical timing problem, though oil-related issues can play a role. You may notice rough running, reduced power, or lower fuel economy. On Chevrolet it is documented across 1 model: Equinox.
What are the most common causes of P0010?
The most common causes of P0010 are: Faulty intake camshaft (VVT) oil control solenoid, Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring/connector at the solenoid, Open or short in the actuator circuit, Low or dirty engine oil restricting the solenoid, Clogged solenoid screen or oil passage, Poor electrical ground, Failed PCM/ECM (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0010 on a Chevrolet?
Published repair estimates on Chevrolet range from $1,500 to $5,000 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0010 on a different make?
View P0010 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.