Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0014 is a generic powertrain code that can apply to all types of vehicles. Code P0014 is only found on vehicles that have variable valve timing (VVT).
What Does the P0014 Code Mean?
OBD code P0014 stands for Camshaft Position B – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1). It indicates that your car’s computer has detected a difference in the desired camshaft position angle and the actual camshaft position angle.
As for the ‘B’ part of the code, it indicates the affected camshaft. In a Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) engine, it is the exhaust camshaft. In V6 or V8 engines, it is the exhaust cam for bank 1, the cylinder head with number one cylinder.
Bank 1 refers to the side of the engine that houses the number one cylinder (only applies to engines with a V or boxer configuration).
What are the Possible Causes of the P0014 Code?
There are a few possible reasons why your car is getting a P0014. To determine the exact cause, see our diagnosis section below.
Code P0014 can be triggered by one or more of the following issues:
- A low engine oil level or contaminated oil (VERY common)
- A faulty oil control solenoid
- A failed camshaft actuator (aka phaser)
- Damaged timing components, such as a stretched chain or damaged guide
- Circuit issues (e.g., damaged wiring, loose connections)
- Problems with the PCM or camshaft position sensor
What are the Common Symptoms of the P0014 Code?
When code P0014 is set, you will also note one or more of the following symptoms:
- Illuminated check engine light
- Hard starting
- Stalling
- Rough idle
- Increased fuel consumption and poorer fuel economy
- Engine misfire
- Rattling noise from the engine
How to Diagnose the P0014 Code
Because there are so many potential causes for code P0014, diagnosis can be extremely difficult. Here’s a video to give you an idea of the troubleshooting process:
How to Fix the P0014 Code
As with most OBD-II trouble codes, you’re not going to find a “magic bullet” fix for a P0014. There are a variety of possible causes, as outlined above, which means there are different avenues of repair.
You’ll need to diagnose the code accurately, as shown in the video above, to find out the underlying cause and perform any necessary repairs.
And remember—all vehicles are different. When troubleshooting and repairing diagnostic trouble codes, make sure to consult the factory repair information for your application.
Repair manuals, such as those from Chilton, are useful, but an ALLDATA subscription is even better. ALLDATA has single-vehicle subscriptions for DIYers that provide detailed factory repair information.
A Quick Note About VVT Systems
As mentioned, code P0014 can appear on vehicles with variable valve timing (VVT). In a conventional engine, valve timing is fixed. But in a VVT system, valve timing can be adjusted on demand by altering the camshaft angle. VVT technology can lead to an increase in power, improved fuel economy, or both.
Typically, each VVT-equipped camshaft has an actuator at the end that rotates the cam’s relative position. Oil control solenoids provide pressurized oil to activate the actuators.
Your car’s primary computer, which is often referred to as the powertrain control module (PCM), controls the solenoids.
It’s worth noting that different automakers refer to the VVT system, as well as the individual VVT components, by different names. Toyota, for example, calls its VVT system, Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i); Ford calls its system Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT). Also, unlike most other automakers, Ford refers to camshaft actuators as camshaft “phasers.”
For an advanced, technical understanding of VVT systems, you may read our discussion here.
Products Mentioned in this Guide
Camshaft Position Sensor
Cam Phaser
Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com
Automotive and Tech Writers
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