P0014 Engine Fault Code Overview
Among all OBD-II engine fault codes, P0014 is one that can easily catch car owners off guard. Whether it appears during normal driving or suddenly after an oil change, the appearance of P0014 raises concerns about potential serious engine problems.
So, what exactly does P0014 mean? Can it be fixed independently? Or is it necessary to go to a repair shop as soon as possible?
This article will systematically introduce the meaning, causes, diagnostic methods, and repair strategies of the P0014 fault code, and show car owners who like DIY vehicle maintenance how to use a reliable Autel OBD2 scanner to make the troubleshooting process more efficient and accurate.
What does the P0014 Fault Code Mean?
P0014 is a generic OBD-II powertrain fault code, defined as:
“Camshaft Position B – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Malfunction (Bank 1)”.
This fault code usually indicates an abnormality in the variable valve timing (VVT) system of the "exhaust camshaft (camshaft B)". P0014 applies to most vehicles manufactured after 1996 equipped with an OBD2 interface, including mainstream brands such as Chevrolet, Toyota, and Ford.
From a technical perspective, P0014 indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected that the timing angle of the exhaust camshaft in cylinder bank 1 is advanced, causing the valve opening and closing timing to be out of sync with the piston movement. This timing deviation directly affects combustion efficiency, power output, and engine smoothness.
Since P0014 is directly related to the variable valve timing system, if the VVT cannot properly adjust the camshaft phase, the engine malfunction indicator light (Check Engine Light) will usually illuminate, alerting the driver to a system malfunction.
P0014 Troble Code Position
What Causes the P0014 Fault Code?
P0014 is not triggered by a single cause; common causes can be summarized into the following major categories:
1. Mechanical Problems
- VVT actuator (camshaft phase adjuster) stuck or damaged
- Timing chain or timing belt stretched or skipped teeth
- Camshaft position sensor failure
- Camshaft or related mechanical parts stuck
2. Engine Oil and Lubrication Problems
- Insufficient oil pressure (oil pump failure or filter blockage)
- Low engine oil level
- Degraded engine oil, severe sludge buildup
- VVT solenoid valve (oil control valve) blockage
3. Electrical or ECU Problems
- Sensor wiring aging, damage, or poor contact
- ECU program abnormality or hardware failure
4. Rare but Serious Cases
- Internal engine damage (e.g., cylinder head gasket, piston ring damage)
- Coolant entering the oil system, leading to lubrication failure
Real-world case study:
A Kia Sportage owner mentioned on a forum that the oil dipstick barely showed any oil level, and he eventually needed to add nearly 4 quarts of oil. Even after replacing the camshaft position sensor and VVT solenoid valve, P0014 repeatedly appeared. It was finally confirmed that the engine had suffered internal wear due to prolonged lack of oil.
Low Engine Oil Level Will Cause P0014 Code
Common Symptoms of P0014 Fault Code
When a vehicle triggers P0014, the following symptoms may occur:
- Engine malfunction indicator light illuminates: The most common warning signal
- Significant idle vibration: Especially when the engine is cold or idling
- Lack of acceleration: Slow throttle response, reduced power output
- Abnormal noise: Knocking or clicking sounds during acceleration, stemming from abnormal valve timing
How Serious is the OBD P0014 Fault Code?
The severity of P0014 depends on the duration of the fault and the specific cause.
In the short term, the vehicle can usually still be driven, but it will be accompanied by reduced power, increased fuel consumption, and a degraded driving experience. If neglected for a long time, abnormal camshaft timing can accelerate wear on valves, camshafts, and other components. In severe cases, valve-to-piston interference may occur, leading to major engine damage. Conclusion:
P0014 is not an emergency failure that requires immediate shutdown, but it should definitely not be ignored for long periods. Inspection and repair should be performed as soon as possible.
How to Diagnose P0014 Fault Code?
The first step in diagnosing P0014 is to use an Autel OBD-II scanner to read the fault code and freeze frame data. Diagnostic tools like the Autel MK808Z, MS906 MAX, or MaxiSys Ultra can provide more in-depth engine data support, helping to accurately pinpoint problems related to camshaft timing.
Diagnose P0014 Code with the Autel Scanner
Using the Autel scanner, you can monitor in real time:
- Camshaft target angle and actual angle
- VVT solenoid valve operating status
- Oil pressure related parameters
This data helps determine whether the problem originates from the sensor, solenoid valve, or oil system.
For example, with the Autel MK808Z, DIY car owners can perform basic P0014 diagnostics, including reading engine data streams and clearing fault codes; while the MS906 MAX and Autel MaxiSys Ultra are more suitable for professional technicians who require bidirectional control and advanced data analysis, allowing them to directly test VVT solenoid valve responses, thus reducing misdiagnosis and unnecessary parts replacement.
The complete diagnostic process should also include:
- Checking the oil level and oil condition
- Testing the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors
- Checking if the VVT solenoid valve is functioning correctly
- Checking for stretching or misalignment of the timing chain or belt
How to Repair the P0014 Rngine Fault Code?
If P0014 persists after clearing the fault code multiple times, it is recommended to troubleshoot step by step as follows:
① Change the engine oil and oil filter
Oil contamination is the primary cause of VVT system failure. Sludge from old oil can easily clog the fine oil passages of the VVT solenoid valve. One Subaru owner shared that simply changing to clean oil completely eliminated the P0014 fault code.
② Clean or replace the VVT solenoid valve
If changing the oil is ineffective, the VVT solenoid valve should be inspected and cleaned. Sludge can cause the solenoid valve to respond slowly or seize, affecting camshaft phase adjustment. On some models, the solenoid valves can be swapped to compare their performance.
Clean the VVT Solenoid Valve
③ In-depth inspection of other components
- Check and replace the camshaft position sensor if necessary
- Check if the timing chain/belt is stretched
- Continuously monitor real-time timing data using the Autel scanner
If DIY troubleshooting is unsuccessful, it is recommended to have a professional technician perform a thorough inspection.
Can the Camshaft Position Sensor Cause P0014?
Yes.
The camshaft position sensor provides the ECM with camshaft speed and angle information. When the sensor ages, the installation gap is abnormal (normally about 0.3–1.2 mm), or the magnetic reluctor wheel is contaminated, the ECM may misinterpret the camshaft timing as being too advanced, triggering P0014.
This situation is relatively common in some German and Japanese car models, often accompanied by difficulty starting in cold weather or unusual noises during acceleration.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a P0014 Trouble Code?
The repair cost for P0014 varies considerably, generally ranging from $35 to $600, depending on the cause of the fault and the vehicle model.
- Oil and oil filter change: $40–150
- Cleaning or replacing the VVT solenoid valve: $120–400
- Replacing the camshaft position sensor: $100–300
- Timing chain/belt repair: Higher cost, depending on the vehicle model
It is recommended to always start troubleshooting with the least expensive basic maintenance.
FAQs
Can I still drive after a P0014 code appears?
Short distances are usually fine, but long-term driving is not recommended; repairs should be done as soon as possible.
Why is the exhaust camshaft timing on bank 1 too advanced?
Common causes include oil problems, VVT system malfunction, worn timing components, and sensor or ECU abnormalities.
Can changing the oil really fix P0014?
In many cases, yes, especially for problems caused by aged oil or sludge buildup.
What if P0014 still appears after replacing the sensor and solenoid valve?
There may be mechanical wear caused by long-term insufficient lubrication. Professional diagnosis is recommended to avoid more serious engine damage.
