How to fix the P0014 Code in 2023
There are warning signs in most modern vehicles to keep you updated with the condition of your vehicle at all times. These signs are displayed using the engine check light.
Due to the development of automobile technology, you can now interpret warning signs a lot easier. If you own a modern car, you definitely need to consider buying an OBD II scanner.
Some drivers must have seen on their scanner signifying P0014 “B Camshaft Position – Over Advanced Timing”. This is a code triggered by your ECU (Engine Control Unit), but what does it actually mean?
Meaning of P0014 Code
P0014 is a diagnostic trouble code related to the variable timing of valves in the engine. It is a generic powertrain code, so it applies to OBD II equipped vehicles with variable timing systems.
The code can refer to a problem with either the variable valve timing or variable camshaft timing systems and the powertrain control module or engine control module. VVT alters how long cylinder valves are open at a time.
In doing so, the system alters the fuel-air mix. This means that an engine can be more fuel-efficient or more powerful depending on the current needs of the vehicle.
Specifically, the P0014 code refers to a problem with the camshaft timing.
With this code, the camshaft timing has exceeded a threshold, also known as being over-advanced. In flat, V, and other non-inline engines, the cylinders are split into banks.
Bank one is the side of the engine containing cylinder one.
Finally, the “B” camshaft is the exhaust, right or rear camshaft, depending on the vehicle. Left/right and front/rear are from the perspective of the driver.
So, P0014 refers to the over-advanced timing of the camshaft in the bank containing cylinder 1 and which is in the exhaust, rear, or right position.
What are the Causes of the P0014 Code?
There are a few potential causes of code P0014, which are mentioned below.
Oil Quality/Pressure
One of the most common causes of code P0014 is oil quality or pressure. If the oil is not up to par, it can cause the VVT system to fail.
So, make sure you are using the correct oil weight and grade and set the pressure correctly.
Failure in the VVT System
If there is a problem with the VVT system, it can cause code P0014 to come up. There could be a problem with the solenoid, oil pressure, or timing.
Timing
It’s also possible that your timing belt or chain is worn or has skipped a tooth due to a worn tensioner. This can also cause multiple other faults to pop up, which tells you that it’s a timing issue rather than VVT-related.
ECU (Engine Control Unit)
Of course, the camshaft adjusting operation is down to the ECU. If there’s an issue with its solenoid driver which is typically PID-based, then it can also over-advance the exhaust camshaft.
A failed camshaft position sensor may also falsely report camshaft position values to the ECU, causing it to trigger the code.
Symptoms of P0014 Code
Code P0014 is often an indication of a more serious problem with the engine and should not be ignored. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible.
- The Check Engine Light comes on indicating a problem.
- The engine may start hard if the camshaft is stuck too far advanced.
- Fuel mileage will be reduced due to the camshafts not being in their optimal positions for good fuel mileage.
- The engine may run rough or stall depending on the camshaft position.
- The engine emissions will cause the vehicle to fail emission tests.
Note: The symptoms may change depending on the camshaft timing positions when the camshaft phaser stopped moving the timing.
How bad is the P0014 Code?
- The engine may run erratically and stall or have a hard starting problem.
- Fuel consumption may increase causing carbon to build up on the engine valves and pistons.
- Driving the vehicle for a prolonged time with the camshaft out of time can cause valves to contact the piston if the timing chain has jumped the gear teeth.
How much does it Cost to fix Code P0014?
P0014 can be caused by anything from old or low oil to catastrophic engine failure. It’s impossible to give an accurate estimate without properly diagnosing the issue first.
If you take your car to a shop for diagnosis, most shops will determine your repair cost based on the time spent in labor diagnosing the cause of the problem.
It shouldn’t cost far above $150, although it depends on the repair shop’s labor rate.
How to Diagnose the P0014 Code
- Connect an OBD2 scanner and look for any related trouble codes that could cause the P0014 code.
- Check your engine oil level and make sure it is good. If it is low, refill and delete the code and try again.
- Check your service history manual and check through the oil filling cap to see if you can see a lot of sludge inside the engine. If there is a lot of sludge, there is a risk that the engine oil changes are not done correctly and that your valve timing control valve’s oil passages are blocked.
- Check the function of the VVT or VCT valve solenoid with the help of your diagnostic scanner.
Try the output test to see if the VCT valve solenoid moves the engine timing or not. You can also try it with 12v+ and ground.
- If easily accessed, remove the VCT control valve solenoid and clean the oil passages with compressed air or similar.
- Check the engine camshaft timing manually. Check your repair manual on how to do it in your engine. If faulty, you need to take the timing belt or chain apart and inspect for damages.
- Check the camshaft position sensor to make sure it gives the right signal.
Final thoughts
Do take note that in some cases, other codes can trigger P0014 as well. P0335 indicates that there’s an issue with the crankshaft position sensor.
Hence, the ECU doesn’t know the precise condition of the engine and thinks that the exhaust camshafts are over-advanced. You should definitely rectify the P0335 code beforehand.
Finally, it is also possible that your timing chain or belt has skipped a tooth. In this instance, there will certainly be a bit more telltale signs than just the P0014 code.
