Vehicle camshaft timing (VCT) systems enhance fuel economy and overall vehicle performance. It regulates the air-fuel mixture ratio by opening and closing the intake and exhaust valves at a predetermined time. This regulation offers better gas mileage, increases engine power according to the ECM demands.
A vehicle onboard computer system only registers diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0014 on cars with variable valve timing (VVT). It, however, refers to an issue on exhaust camshaft timing “B” position in bank 1. This engine part regulates the exhaust valves to open/close.
In this article, we’ll outline an in-depth analysis of code P0014 causes, symptoms, common diagnosis mistakes, diagnosis, and repairs.
Let’s keep the ball rolling.
Code P0014 Definition
- P0014 Generic: Exhaust Camshaft Position—Timing Over—Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)
- P0014 Kia: Blink Code: 3,3 Open circuit to Front left outlet valve.
- P0014 Peugeot: Camshaft Position B → Over Advanced → Bank 1
- P0014 Hyundai: Blink Code: 3,3 Open circuit to Front left outlet valve
What Does P0014 Mean?
As explained earlier, variable valve timing offers better gas mileage and increases engine power by controlling the intake, and exhaust valves to open/close.
The PCM adjusts the camshafts with oil pressure via the help of variable valve timing control valve solenoid, also known as oil control valves. When the ECM notices that the exhaust camshaft timing on bank 1 is over-more advanced than it has commanded it to be, the ECM will register the P0014 fault code to report the issue.
What Are the Symptoms of Code P0014?
When the PCM registers error code P0014, you’ll notice one or more of the following signs;
- Rattling noise from the engine
- Engine misfiring
- Engine stalling
- High fuel consumption
- Check engine light
- Hard starting
- Failed emission test
What Cause of Code P0014?
The ECM may register the P0014 fault code for a bunch of reasons. What causes P0014 Hyundai may differ from the cause of P0014 Nissan. This, however, doesn’t mean the cause on one vehicle may not be the cause in another vehicle – but it means there could be several reasons. Here are the most common ones;
- Lousy camshaft actuator
- Wrong engine oil viscosity
- Continuous oil flow to variable valve timing chamber
- Inadequate engine oil level
- Old or dirty engine oil
- Faulty variable valve timing solenoid
- Camshaft actuator stuck in the advanced position
How Serious Is Code P0014?
To be specific, hard starting, engine misfiring, and stalling are severe problems for most car owners. However, one should be concerned about the causes and not the symptoms.
A lousy timing chain can be a serious issue because, if it breaks, it will cause catastrophic damage to the internal engine components.
Even while it is still running, if it runs loose or jumps a tooth, making it advanced, it’ll damage related parts and drop an expensive repair bill on the table. Hence, it’s essential to drive down to a nearby mechanic garage when you notice a rattling noise from your engine, in line with any other symptoms above.
Are you seeing mild signs and considering ignoring the problem? If that’s the case, you will fail the next smog test, and that means you’ll still fix it again. It’s always better to tackle problems at the initial stage because you’ll require less labor, less damage, and, of course, less money.
Code P0014 Common Diagnosis Mistakes
- It is essential to avoid these mistakes when diagnosing or fixing error code P0014.
- Check the wiring harness and connectors to ensure they are free of corrosion.
- Check the motor oil level and condition. Make sure you have the right oil type and it is at the right level.
- Scan the vehicle with your OBDII scanner, clear the fault code and re-scan the car. You may drive around for about 15-20 minutes before re-scanning. If the code keeps coming, proceed to other diagnoses and repair.
- Get a service manual for your specific vehicle and follow manufacturers’ test procedures for a perfect diagnosis and repair.
- Do not repair or replace any component unless a diagnosis proves it is malfunctioning.
Tools Needed to Diagnose Code P0014
- Specific vehicle service manual
- Basic hand tools
- OBDII scan tool
- Fused jumper wires
How to Diagnose and Repair Code P0014
Run a scan check and see if another fault code accompanies P0014, and erase the engine warning light with a scan tool.
Check the motor oil level and condition via the oil dipstick. If the oil is below the specified level, top it with new oil and test run the vehicle to ensure you solve it. And if it is old, dirty, or a wrong viscosity type, change it and install a new filter, and test run to confirm it has solved the problem.
Unbolt the valve cover and check if there’s engine sludge. If there is sludge buildup, you will need to drop your engine and flush it because there will be deposits blocking the oil galleries.
If the engine is clean from buildup, test the camshaft oil control valve exhaust bank 1 for good working condition. You can carry out this test by unbolting the camshaft oil control valve and testing it with a wire jumper. Transmit power and ground to the solenoid via a pair of fused wire jumpers. [Do not allow the power supply to stay longer than 2 seconds]
If the valve is functioning correctly, it’ll make a click sound, and the valve may move either way. If there’s no click or movement, change the valve and test drive the car to see the outcome.
If, after performing the above diagnosis and the fault persists, you may have internal engine issues. Visit a mechanic for a professional diagnosis and fix.
Same Problems with different Error Codes
Here are other fault codes that show malfunctions on the exhaust variable camshaft valves.
- P0013
- P0021
FAQs:
Q: Can P0014 be caused by low oil?
Yes. Since VVT relies on oil and pressure to function optimally, a low oil level can cause the onboard computer to register trouble code P0014. It is pretty easy to check oil levels, but system leaks cause low oil levels. That said, it takes a severe or extended leak for the low oil pressure issues to become apparent.
However, the oil filter can be the culprit. This happens when you install a low-quality aftermarket filter, which may affect oil pressure.
However, with proper maintenance, oil-based issues may not affect VVT systems unless there’s a manufacturer’s fault.
Q: Can too much oil cause P0014?
Too much oil on the engine will cause the engine pressure to increase and lead to several issues including collapsed valve pipes, spark fouling, and so on.
If the oil flow is too high, it’ll cause blockage and foaming on the oil areas, leading to lubrication issues. The flow of oil should be constrained for the engine to run nicely and smoothly.
Q: How much does it cost to fix code P0014?
Several factors determine the repair cost for the P0014 trouble code. The feasible solutions could be to replace the engine, do an oil change, or replace the variable valve timing control solenoid/Oil control valve. The estimated repair cost below includes part cost and labor charges.
- Oil and oil filter change $30-70
- Variable valve control solenoid $250-350
- Engine replacement $2000-4000.
Q: Can I drive my car with a P0014 code?
While you can still drive around with P0014 registered issues, please don’t do it. Driving with it will cause hard starting, erratic idling, stalling, poor engine performance, and increased fuel consumption.
Again, if a lousy VVT control solenoid triggers the issue, it may cause other related components to fail.
Last word
A jumped timing due to a defective or worn timing chain, guides, or tensioners will cause the onboard computer to trigger the P0014 trouble code. Fixing this problem requires following the appropriate instructions for your specific vehicle from a recommended service manual for your car make and model.
While the diagnosis and repair guides above are worth noting, it is for car mechanics and DIYers because it is a general guide for all vehicles. That said, it may be challenging for all car owners to grab.
If you find it difficult to run the diagnosis yourself, visit a nearby mechanic garage.
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Thanks very much, it’s an in-depth explanation, I believe it will save me some money