P0014: "B" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)
The check engine light is on and you’ve checked the code with an OBD-II scanner. The result was P0014. What now? What does the code P0014 mean? How do you fix it?
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What Does the Code P0014 Mean?
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 for 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, P0014 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 over-advanced timing of the camshaft in the bank containing cylinder 1 and that is in the exhaust, rear or right position.
What Are the Symptoms of Code P0014?
A problem with timing in the engine will cause it to run rough. You may experience hard starting, poor idling, and/or engine stalling. There may be some other symptoms and these symptoms may have other causes. The best way to determine if the problem is a code P0014 is with an OBD-II scanner.
What Are the Causes of Code P0014?
If you experience an OBD-II scanner error code P0014 problem, there can be a few possible problems causing it. The following are the most likely causes:
- The camshaft’s timing is incorrect
- The valve control solenoid has failed and is stuck open
- The valve control solenoid system’s wiring is faulty or damaged
- The oil flow to and from the camshaft phasers is restrictive
The problem can also be caused by a faulty PCM or ECM inaccurately throwing the code. Although there are a few possible causes of the code, it is a relatively-specific error. This can make the diagnostic process a little easier compared to some other diagnostic trouble codes.
If the problem continues, follow the manufacturer-specific pinpoint test for code P0014. This is provided in the repair manual for your vehicle. Please note this manual is different from your owner’s manual and you may need to purchase it separately. These steps should allow you to find the specific problem with the VCT.
While the above steps should enable you to diagnose and correct trouble code P0014, it sometimes requires advanced tools. If you are unable to fix the problem, consider bringing your vehicle to a dealer tech. They will have the diagnostic equipment specific to your manufacturer that will enable them to troubleshoot and fix P0014.
If the job is too big for you, seek out one of our Preferred Shops to help you do the job.
