CodeXOBD

P0014 — Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced (Bank 1 Exhaust)

P0014 indicates the exhaust camshaft timing is more advanced than commanded. A sticking oil control valve or contaminated oil is the most common fix.

Moderate

The engine will run but may have reduced power, rough idle, or increased fuel consumption.

$30–$300Parts, typical range
0.5–3 hLabour
estimateNot a quote · 2026 basis

What P0014 means

Similar to P0011 but affecting the exhaust camshaft. The VVT system on the exhaust side adjusts the timing of exhaust valve opening and closing to improve emissions and efficiency. When the exhaust camshaft stays in an over-advanced position despite the module commanding otherwise, P0014 sets. Oil contamination and sludge are frequent contributors.

Technical summary
SystemPowertrain — fuel and air metering
How the fuel mixture is decidedAir passes the mass airflow sensor, then the throttle, into the intake manifold and the cylinder. The module injects fuel to match the measured air, and the upstream oxygen sensor reports the result so it can correct itself. Air entering after the sensor was never measured, which is why a leak downstream of it makes the mixture run lean.Air inAirflow sensormeasures massThrottleCylinderfuel added hereO₂ sensorreports resultAny air entering after the sensor is fuel the module never accounted for

Symptoms you may notice

What causes P0014

Exhaust oil control valve stuck open

Very likelylow costmoderate

Sludge or debris in the oil system prevents the exhaust side oil control valve from closing, holding the camshaft in an advanced position.

Oil degradation or incorrect viscosity

Likelylow costeasy

Extended oil change intervals or incorrect oil specification can cause the VVT system to malfunction on the exhaust side.

Exhaust VVT actuator worn or sticking

Possiblemedium costmoderate

The mechanical actuator on the exhaust camshaft can wear and stick internally. This is less common than the oil control valve being the fault.

How to diagnose it

1

Check oil level and condition

Verify oil is at the correct level, the right viscosity, and not heavily degraded.

Tools: DipstickIf it passes: Oil is correct. Continue to step 2.If it fails: Change oil and filter, clear the code, and re-test after a drive cycle.
2

Test the exhaust oil control valve

Remove and inspect the exhaust-side oil control valve. Test with battery voltage — it should click and the plunger should move freely.

Tools: Basic hand tools, MultimeterIf it passes: Valve operates correctly. The actuator may be the fault.If it fails: Clean or replace the valve.
3

Inspect the exhaust camshaft actuator

Remove the valve cover and inspect the exhaust VVT actuator for mechanical binding or damage. The actuator should rotate freely when the oil control valve is energized.

Tools: Basic hand tools, Inspection lightIf it passes: Actuator moves freely. The wiring or module may be the fault.If it fails: Actuator is seized or damaged — replace it.

Related codes

P0011P0012P0024

Common questions

Is P0014 the same as P0011?

No. P0011 affects the intake camshaft on bank 1, while P0014 affects the exhaust camshaft on bank 1. The diagnostic approach is similar but the parts are different.

Last verified 2026-07-27 · Sources: SAE J2012 — Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions and Failure Type Byte (SAE International)

This information is for general guidance and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis. Cost figures are estimates, not quotes.