AutoCodes – Generic – P1090

P1090 Code - VVEL Actuator Motor Bank 1

Quick Answer

VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) is a system that controls valve event and valve lift continuously. Common causes include Faulty VVEL Actuator Motor, VVEL Actuator Motor harness is open or shorted, VVEL Actuator Motor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P1090 indicates VVEL Actuator Motor Bank 1.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty VVEL Actuator Motor, VVEL Actuator Motor harness is open or shorted, VVEL Actuator Motor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 13,653

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 08, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1090 Description

VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) is a system that controls valve event and valve lift continuously. Rotational movement of the drive shaft equipped with eccentric cam is transmitted to output cam via the rocker arm and two kinds of links to depress the intake valve. The Engine Control Module (ECM) decides the target valve lift according to the driving condition and sends the command signal to the VVEL control module. The VVEL control module controls the rotation of the control shaft using the VVEL actuator motor and changes the movement of the output cam by shifting the link supporting point. As a result, valve lift changes continuously to improve engine output and response.

OBDII Code P1090 - VVEL Actuator Motor Bank 1 - AutoCodes.com — P1090 Code - VVEL Actuator Motor Bank 1

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1090?

Faulty VVEL Actuator Motor
VVEL Actuator Motor harness is open or shorted
VVEL Actuator Motor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty VVEL actuator sub assembly
Faulty VVEL ladder assembly
Faulty VVEL control module

How to Fix the DTC P1090?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1090 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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Information for Specific Makes

P1090 BMW — Pre-Catalyst Fuel Trim Too Lean Bank 1
P1090 Infiniti — VVEL Actuator Motor Bank 1
P1090 MINI — Pre-Catalyst Fuel Trim Too Lean Bank 1
P1090 Nissan — VVEL Actuator Motor Bank 1
P1090 Subaru — Tumble Generated Valve System 1 Valve Open

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.