The P0014 code is an OBD-II trouble code that stands for Camshaft Position “B” – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1) which means that the exhaust camshaft on the first cylinder is over-advancing.
This exhaust camshaft controls the valve that allows the engine exhaust gases to release.
In this article, I will be talking about the P0014 trouble code, its symptoms, causes, and how to fix it.
- P0014 Trouble Code Definition
- What Does The P0014 Code Mean?
- Which Models Are Affected By The P0014 Code
- What Are The Possible Causes of the P0014 Code?
- What Are The Common Symptoms of The P0014 Code?
- Is It Safe To Drive With a P0014 Code?
- How To Diagnose The P0014 Code
- Most Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0014 Code
- How Much Does It Cost To Repair P0014 Code
- What Repairs Can Fix The P0014 Code?
- How To Fix The P0014 Code
- In Conclusion
P0014 Trouble Code Definition
P0014 trouble code is defined as B Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 1.
The P0014 code indicates that the camshaft position is out of range in relation to the crankshaft position.
This means that the timing between the two components is off and must be corrected for optimal engine performance.
What Does The P0014 Code Mean?
P0014 trouble code means that the exhaust camshaft on bank 1 is over-advancing or ahead of time.
The exhaust camshaft should work in sync as the vehicle’s computer orders and if it’s over-advancing or retarding, the ECU will throw a check engine light and will store a P0014 trouble code.
First, the P0014 trouble code indicates the location of the error. The region of the engine that contains the first cylinder is referred to as “Bank 1.” Position “B” is an exhaust camshaft that, depending on the make and model of the vehicle, is located either in the rear or to the right of the engine from the driver’s perspective.
Next, the P0014 trouble code then states that this camshaft is over-advancing, which means that it has exceeded a threshold set by the ECM (engine control module) while advancing or retarding the camshaft timing.
Which Models Are Affected By The P0014 Code
| Make | Affected By P0014 Code |
|---|---|
| Toyota | Yes |
| Nissan | Yes |
| Chevrolet | Yes |
| BMW | Yes |
| Audi | Yes |
| Buick | Yes |
| Mercedes | Yes |
| GMC | Yes |
| Suzuki | Yes |
| Tata | Yes |
| Lexus | Yes |
| Mazda | Yes |
| Mitsubishi | Yes |
| Kia | Yes |
| Jeep | Yes |
| Fiat | Yes |
| Honda | Yes |
| Hyundai | Yes |
| Opel | Yes |
| Ford | Yes |
| Fiat | Yes |
| Peugeot | Yes |
What Are The Possible Causes of the P0014 Code?
The P0014 trouble code is caused when the vehicle’s computer detects that the exhaust camshaft on bank 1 is over-advancing. Meaning, the exhaust camshaft is not following the directions of the ECU and it is ahead of time. As a result, a check engine light will be ignited to warn the driver and the ECU will store a P0014 code.
Several common causes of the P0014 trouble code could be the root of the issue, including:
- Improper Camshaft Timing
- Defective camshaft timing control solenoid
- Failed variable camshaft tuning (VVT) or variable valve timing (VCT)
- Oil lines of the variable camshaft tuning (VCT) or variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid are clogged
- Engine oil is low
- Oil pressure is low
- Defective camshaft position sensor
- Defective crankshaft position sensor
- The wirings are damaged
- Defective timing chain or timing belt
- Defective timing tensioner
(See also: Symptoms of a Bad Camshaft Position Sensor: What to Look Out For)
What Are The Common Symptoms of The P0014 Code?
Are you wondering how to determine when the P0014 trouble code occurs? Early detection of the issue decreases the amount of vehicle damage. Here are some of the most common symptoms of the P0014 trouble code:
- The Check Engine Light illuminates, signaling a problem.
- Starting difficulty: Does your car take a while to start? This is usually associated with camshaft issues. While turning the key, listen for clicking sounds. Moreover, the car may start and then stop. Eventually, if the problem is not resolved, the automobile may not start at all.
- Stalling: Similar to troubles with starting, the vehicle may have difficulty idling or randomly stall at lower speeds.
- Decreased fuel economy: The P0014 code may cause significant decreases in fuel economy. The decrease is often abrupt rather than gradual, making it easier to detect.
- Noise and vibration from the engine: A camshaft issue can also cause a rough ride because the vehicle is receiving an incorrect fuel-air mix. You may notice your vehicle shaking, emitting more exhaust smoke, or running louder than usual.
- The vehicle will fail emission tests due to engine emissions.
Is It Safe To Drive With a P0014 Code?
No, it’s not safe to drive with the P0014 trouble code without first diagnosing the problem. If you ignore a problem with the camshaft timing, it can result in complete engine failure if you’re unlucky, which in most cases means an engine replacement, which can be very expensive.
Most people are concerned when their vehicle fails to start or remains operational. The severity of the problem, however, is determined by what generated the code in the first place.
A faulty timing chain can seriously damage an engine. Continuing to drive your car may result in additional damage and a higher repair bill. Ideally, you should drive to your nearest mechanic as soon as possible to have the problem diagnosed.
How To Diagnose The P0014 Code
Diagnosis of the P0014 trouble code can be difficult without the proper expertise and knowledge. Because of the complexity of the systems, it can be difficult to reach the camshaft timing and check it without the proper tools and knowledge.
However, most people with basic knowledge can use the following simple methods to diagnose the P0014 trouble code:
- Connect an OBD2 scanner and search for any trouble codes that could be causing the P0014 code. If you see any codes related to the crankshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensor, you should first diagnose these to see if they can solve the P0014 trouble code.
- Check your engine oil level to ensure it is adequate. If it is low, add oil or change the oil and filter. Clear the P0014 error code and try again.
- Examine your service manual and the oil filler cap to see if there is a lot of sludge inside the engine. If there is a lot of sludge, your engine oil may be very old, clogging the oil lines of the variable valve timing (VVT) or variable camshaft tuning (VCT) engine control valve. You may need to change the engine oil and clean the oil lines and VVT valve in this case.
- Using your diagnostic scanner, check the operation of the variable valve timing (VVT) or variable camshaft tuning VCT valve solenoid. Perform an output test to determine whether or not the variable camshaft tuning (VCT) valve solenoid moves. If you have some car electrical knowledge, you can also experiment with 12v+ power and ground.
- Remove the variable camshaft tuning (VCT) control valve solenoid if it is easily accessible, and clean the oil passages with compressed air and a suitable cleaning solution.
- Check the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors to ensure they are sending the correct signals.
- Manually check the engine camshaft timing. Check your owner’s manual for instructions on how to do this in your engine. If the timing belt or chain is faulty, you must disassemble it and inspect it for damage.
If you are uncertain about any of these processes, it would be best to contact a professional diagnostic technician for an accurate diagnosis.
Most Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0014 Code
The most common P0014 diagnosis mistake is incorrectly assuming that the timing chain or belt is defective. Replacement of a timing chain or timing belt can be rather costly, and the P0014 code can be triggered by a variety of other issues; therefore, it is imperative to conduct a thorough diagnosis before any repairs.
The most frequent cause of the trouble code P0114 is a malfunctioning VVT or VCT system, which controls the timing of the camshaft system. However, a faulty camshaft position sensor or low oil level are other possible causes.
How Much Does It Cost To Repair P0014 Code
Exhaust camshaft position sensor costs between $25 and $66.
Labor for changing a faulty exhaust camshaft position sensor costs between $90 and $150.
| Make | P0014 Code | Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Nissan | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Chevrolet | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| BMW | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Audi | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Buick | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Mercedes | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| GMC | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Suzuki | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Tata | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Lexus | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Mazda | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Mitsubishi | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Kia | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Jeep | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Fiat | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Honda | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Hyundai | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Opel | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Ford | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Fiat | Yes | $115 – $216 |
| Peugeot | Yes | $115 – $216 |
What Repairs Can Fix The P0014 Code?
Repairs that can fix the P0014 trouble code are:
- Add or change the engine oil and oil filter.
- Clean the oil lines of the variable camshaft tuning (VCT) or variable valve timing (VVT) system
- Clean or replace the variable camshaft tuning (VCT) or variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid
- Replacement of the timing belt or chain
- Change the camshaft timing control valve solenoid
- Change the camshaft position sensor
- Replace the crankshaft position sensor
- Fix defective wirings
How To Fix The P0014 Code
Here are some steps you should take to fix the P0014 trouble code:
- Resetting the error codes and carrying out a road test
- Changing the oil and filter with engine-specific oil viscosity
- Fixing or replacing the wiring to the bank 1 exhaust camshaft oil control valve.
- Replacement of the exhaust camshaft oil control valve for bank 1
- Fixing or replacing the timing chain and camshaft phasers per the service manual’s instructions
In Conclusion
The P0014 code indicates a timing issue with the camshaft. This may be the result of faulty camshaft timing, which is a significant issue that must be addressed, or it may result in extremely expensive repair costs.
Yet, it can also be caused by anything as easy as insufficient engine oil or a faulty camshaft position sensor, both of which can typically be repaired for less than $300.
If you are unsure of your ability to resolve this issue, contact a skilled mechanic as soon as possible.