p1341 CEL, engine runs great

[enjoikr3w]

My 2002 boxster keeps throwing the p1341 CEL even after I have cleared it. Ive been doing some research on this issue and so far the general consensus is that it's either a bad actuator or there's some kind of fault in the wiring. I've checked the timing of my engine just in case and everything seems fine there. My question is, can my actuator be faulty even if the engine runs great? Can it be a silent disaster? I've taken the car over 5k rpm and I do not notice any hiccups with performance. My next plan is to check the wiring issues but I do not have access to the special tool 9675. Any insight is appreciated.

[JFP in PA]

P1341 indicates that the CPS or VarioCam unit on bank 1 may have issues. A PST II/PIWIS/Durametric system can verify some diagnostics before moving forward. All of these systems can actuate the VarioCam solenoid (often the issue) without the engine running; if the solenoid does not actuate, the course of repair is obvious. If the solenoid does work, you may have either a dying CPS or a wiring issue. You are not going to locate the 9675 “special tool” (called a pin out box), which cost over $800 and need to come from Germany, so don’t bother trying to locate one. Any testing or electrical issues can be corrected using common sense and a good digital multi meter which costs less than $50 and is always a useful addition to any tool box.

Should you get it fixed? Yes, this is not going to get better on its own, and can lead to other problems as well. The will also not pass emissions inspection in most states in this condition either.