How to Fix Code P0014: Every Home Mechanic’s Guide

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How do I fix code P0014? You may ask yourself this question because you don't even have an idea what it means. 

This article will cover how to diagnose the P0014 code, recognize its symptoms, and take preventive measures so you won't reencounter this trouble code.

What does code P0014 mean?

How do I fix Code P0014

P0014 code means that the camshaft position timing is not aligned with what your ECM is programmed to recognize. This programmed position tells your vehicle to drive smoothly with minimal emissions. When your car changes in emissions or any issue with your car’s drivability, it will signal a P0014 trouble code. 

Symptoms

  • Illumination of the check engine light
  • Hard starting engine
  • Rough idle
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Failed emissions test
  • Weird knocking sounds from the engine

Causes

  • Too dirt engine oil
  • Low levels of engine oil
  • Engine oil used is incompatible
  • Failure on the camshaft variable timing solenoid
  • Advanced position of the camshaft phaser
  • Uncontrolled oil flow to variable camshaft timing chamber

Common Mistakes in Diagnosis

  • Not checking on your oil level and viscosity
  • Not doing a visual inspection on the connector, valve, and wirings with the oil control valve (OCV)
  • Not checking on freeze frame data and other OBD2 data
  • Clearing the OBD2 codes without addressing the problem
  • Leaving the problem for too long

How serious is the P0014 code?

Trouble code P0014 affects your vehicle's drivability. If allowed to linger for a while, this trouble code can damage your vehicle severely, resulting in substantial repair costs, or worse, your safety while driving.

P0014 Repair Costs

This trouble code is one of the simplest yet most expensive codes to repair as it may eventually force you to change your vehicle engine, which can range from $3000 to $4000. 

However, if you check it immediately, it may only mean a change oil that you can do yourself and will cost you less than a hundred dollars. If the issue is the oil control valve or the variable valve timing control solenoid, it can cost $300 to $400. 

So, when you see the P0014 code, check your car immediately before it can cause severe damage.

How to Fix P0014 Code

1. Replace the Oil and Oil Filter

an oil filter with its housing and a gallon of engine oil

If the issue is the oil and oil viscosity, replace the oil and filter.

  • Drain the oil from your car, then replace the oil plug snugly. The oil you drain may sometimes look like sludge or is too dark, meaning you left it for too long without changing oil.
  • Remove the oil filter, but make sure to have the drain basin nearby to catch the oil from the filter.
  • Apply fresh oil to the new oil filter's gasket and replace it, but don't pull it too tight.
  • Clean the oil cap before removing it, then use a funnel to pour your oil.
  • Fill the oil tank with fresh oil and use the proper viscosity recommended for your car. Replace the oil cap.
  • Start your car and let it run for a minute to raise the oil pressure.
  • Check your car oil level using the dipstick. The oil should be near the second dot on the dipstick. Add more oil if needed.
  • Store your used oil for recycling.

2. Repair the Camshaft Wiring

A mechanic taking a reading on the camshaft sensor wiring

  • Use a multimeter to take readings on your camshaft wiring. Replace the wiring if it does not get any reading or if it is lower than the ASE standards.

3. Replace the Oil Control Valve (OCV) on the Camshaft

a faulty oil control valve removed from a car

  • Remove the camshaft OCV.
  • Wet a clean rag with valve cleaner and wipe the valve clean.
  • Test the camshaft valve with a multimeter. If you don't get a reading, replace the camshaft valve.

4. Replace the Timing Chain and Camshaft Phasers

replacing the timing chain and camshaft phasers

This technique is advanced for a newbie DIY mechanic, so refrain from doing this. However, if you're ready for it, you can try following these steps:

  • Disconnect all the wirings before working on your timing chain and camshaft-phasers.
  • Position your camshaft to the 1 o'clock position, then hold the timing chain, using a vise grip to hold the chain together, or use a wedge tool kit between the chains.
  • Measure the width between the camshaft and the timing chain.
  • Clean the cam cap, then put a mark using an industrial marker on the camshaft so you can identify where to replace it. Mark on the camshaft and the timing chain too.
  • Remove the bolt that connects the camshaft phaser and the timing chain, pull it out.
  • Replace the old camshaft phaser, aligning everything well. Return the bolt and tighten it well.
  • Measure again to see that the camshaft and timing chain are adequately aligned.
  • Adjust the torque to 30-foot lbs, and mark the nut, so you know you're at 90 degrees.
  • Replace the cover using an engine sealant to seal them together.

OBD2 Code P0014 FAQ

How do I fix the timing on my camshaft?

Because the camshaft manages fuel economy and exhaust fumes for your vehicle, camshaft timing affects your vehicle's performance and can cause the P0014 code. However, fixing the camshaft timing is also easy.

  • Determine the timing mark on the balancer to indicate the top dead center.
  • Check the timing light by connecting the spark plug and vehicle battery starting the vehicle. Check the harmonic balancer and the timing belt.
  • Adjust the camshaft timing using the reference mark. If it's not at the top dead center, go ahead and move or adjust the distributor until it matches up with that first cylinder position.
  • Shut off the engine in your vehicle and use a wrench to tighten the distributor again. 

Can bad spark plugs cause P0014?

Yes. Faulty spark plugs and wiring commonly cause rough idling, and your vehicle may interpret it as code P0014.

What happens when a camshaft sensor goes bad?

A defective camshaft position sensor will cause your vehicle to sputter, lack power, and even shut off, thus triggering the P0014 code.

Conclusion

In the end, it's important to remember that as long as you keep an eye on the typical symptoms listed here, code P0014 shouldn't be too much trouble. As always, we recommend scheduling routine scans using your OBD2 scanners so you can see possible problems before they cause you any trouble. 

Have you experienced the P0014 trouble code? Share with us how you resolved it. Happy driving!