DTC P0014: Camshaft Position B – Timing Over-Advanced (Bank 1)

What Does P0014 Code Mean?

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0014 is a generic powertrain code defined as “Camshaft Position B – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1).”  

The code means the engine control module (ECM) has found that the exhaust camshaft on Bank 1 is opening the exhaust valves too early. 

Bank 1 contains cylinder #1, and camshaft position B refers to the exhaust camshaft (exhaust cam), which controls the valves that release exhaust gases. 

When the exhaust cam operates ahead of its expected position, it creates an engine timing issue, which hurts engine performance and increases emissions.

Does this error code appear in all kinds of vehicles?

No, this timing issue usually occurs in vehicles with a variable valve timing (VVT) system. The system adjusts the engine timing of the intake and exhaust valves depending on load or driving conditions to improve power and efficiency.

The VVT system relies on key engine components, like the camshaft actuator or camshaft phaser, VVT solenoid valve, oil line, and ECM to control this timing. However, when one of these components malfunctions, the exhaust camshaft can advance too far, triggering engine code P0014.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Code P0014?

DTC P0014 can manifest itself in various ways, and the most common signs include:

1. Illuminated check engine light or oil level light
2. Engine stalling
3. Rough engine idle or hard start
4. Rattling or knocking sound from the engine
5. Reduced power
6. Failed emissions test
7. Decreased fuel economy

What Are the Causes of Code P0014?

Some reasons that can trigger a P0014 error code are:

• Dirty engine oil
• Low engine oil levels
• VVT solenoid valve or actuator failure
• Continuous oil flow to the variable camshaft timing piston chamber
• A faulty camshaft position sensor or related connector and wiring
• Worn timing chain, belt, or other timing components
• Damaged camshaft sensor
• Malfunctioning engine control module

How Serious Is the P0014 Error Code?

P0014 trouble code is a serious fault code in the VVT system and shouldn’t be ignored. 

Here’s why:
The camshaft plays a crucial role in engine operation by opening and closing the valves using egg-shaped lobes called cam lobes. These lobes push against rocker arms, which open the valves in perfect sync with the crankshaft, all coordinated by the timing chain.

When the exhaust camshaft timing is off, it throws off precise synchronization. Over time, this can lead to severe engine damage, such as bent valves from piston contact.

To prevent costly repairs and keep your vehicle safe and reliable, it’s essential to have a qualified mechanic diagnose and fix the P0014 trouble code as soon as it appears.

Is It Safe to Drive When the Car Displays the P0014 Code?

You can drive the car in this state, but it’s not recommended. 

Why?
When this error code appears, the car could experience reduced engine performance, rough idling, poor fuel economy, or unexpected engine stalling. So, driving with an active P0014 code may damage engine components and lead to costly repairs.

Which Vehicles Are Commonly Affected By Code P0014?

Code P0014 can appear in any car equipped with a Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system, which includes most modern petrol engines. 

However, vehicle diagnostic databases show that the code is more frequently observed in some models of these brands:

• General Motors brands (such as Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, and Cadillac)
• Ford
• Toyota
• Nissan
• BMW
• Volkswagen
• Peugeot

How to Diagnose Code P0014

In most cases, resolving the engine code P0014 error requires checking the oil level and performing an oil change.

However, if that doesn’t resolve the issue, you’ll need to perform an intermediate-level exhaust camshaft diagnosis. This can be a time-intensive process for inexperienced drivers, and it may require specialized equipment. 

So, it’s best to let your mechanic handle the diagnosis and repair.

Here’s how they’ll go about it:

1. Scan for Trouble Codes and Monitor Live Data

The mechanic will use an OBD-II scan tool to check for any other diagnostic trouble codes, such as:

• P0010: “A” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)
• P0011: Camshaft Position ‘A’–Timing Over-Advanced (Bank 1)

They’ll also monitor live data to compare intake and exhaust camshaft angles and detect signs of incorrect camshaft timing or other inconsistencies.

2. Check Engine Oil Level and Condition

Low or dirty oil can affect oil pressure and disrupt VVT operation, leading to the P0014 error. 

To prevent any issues, the mechanic will top off or replace the oil as needed.

3. Inspect the Valve Train for Sludge Buildup

Your mechanic will ensure the VVT solenoid (AKA oil control valve) is clean, and nothing is blocking oil flow to the cam phaser. 

4. Assess the Bank 1 Exhaust Camshaft Oil Control Valve

The mechanic will remove the valve and briefly apply power to its electrical terminals. 

If the solenoid doesn’t click or actuate, the variable valve timing solenoid may be faulty and should be replaced.

5. Take a Test Drive

Finally, the mechanic will take a test drive.

If the fault code reappears, they’ll check for other internal engine issues, like worn timing chain tensioners.

To avoid any problems in the future, the mechanic might suggest that you regularly scan for P0014 and other error codes.

How Often Should You Scan for Code P0014?

There isn’t any specific interval required to scan for P0014, but it’s recommended to perform regular diagnostic scans as part of routine maintenance.

Experts suggest having your vehicle’s computer scanned at least once a year or around every 10,000 to 12,000 miles, even if your car doesn’t show any warnings (such as the check engine light).

What Are the Possible Repairs for DTC P0014 & Costs?

Depending on the diagnosis, you may need to replace:

• Old oil with a fresh batch 
• The variable valve timing solenoid for the Bank 1 exhaust camshaft
• The camshaft oil control valve wiring or connector for the Bank 1 exhaust camshaft
• The faulty camshaft position sensor
• The timing belt or timing chain
• The camshaft actuator (or camshaft phaser) 

The cost to fix the code P0014 depends on the specific repair needed. 

Here’s a general estimate of various variable valve timing system repairs (excluding diagnosis costs):

• Oil change: $30 to $250+ for oil and filter
• VVT solenoid replacement: $340 to $400
• Timing chain replacement: $1980 and $2,680
• Timing belt replacement: $400 to $1100
• Camshaft sensor replacement: $185 and $320