Engine

P0013 — Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)

Severity: medium Drive with care, to a shop

What P0013 means

The engine computer controls a solenoid (oil control valve) that uses oil pressure to shift the timing of the exhaust camshaft. P0013 sets when the ECU detects an open, short, or other electrical problem in that solenoid circuit on bank 1. As a result, valve timing may not be adjusted as intended.

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Rough idle
  • Reduced power and sluggish acceleration
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Rough running
  • Rattle at startup

Possible causes

  1. Failed exhaust camshaft actuator solenoid (oil control valve)
  2. Open or short in the wiring or a bad connector
  3. Low, dirty, or wrong-grade engine oil
  4. Damaged wiring in the valve cover harness
  5. Faulty camshaft phaser/actuator
  6. Rarely, a faulty ECM/PCM

How to diagnose

  1. Scan for codes and freeze frame data, and look for other VVT or cam/crank codes
  2. Check oil level and condition; change it if needed
  3. Inspect the solenoid connector and harness for oil, chafing, and corrosion
  4. Test solenoid resistance and check wiring, power, and ground to the ECU
  5. Compare commanded and actual cam timing in live data
  6. Command the solenoid with a scan tool and confirm it responds
  7. If deviation persists, check timing marks and chain/tensioner condition
  8. Remove the valve and inspect it and its screen for debris

Common fixes

  • Replace the faulty exhaust camshaft actuator solenoid
  • Repair or replace damaged wiring and connectors
  • Change the oil and filter with the correct grade
  • Replace the camshaft phaser if it does not respond
  • Rarely, repair or replace the ECM/PCM

Questions and answers

What does P0013 mean?

It is an electrical circuit fault in the bank 1 exhaust camshaft actuator solenoid. The ECU cannot properly control exhaust valve timing.

Can I drive with code P0013?

Usually for a short time, but the engine will run worse and use more fuel. Get it diagnosed soon, particularly if the oil is old or low.

Can bad oil cause P0013?

Yes. Low or dirty oil can disrupt VVT operation and clog the solenoid, which is why the oil is checked first.

This is general information about the code. The meaning can differ between makes and models: a scan tool and the repair manual for your car will show the exact cause.