P0014 Code: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnostics, And Fixes

The OBD-II code P0014 refers to a problem with the bank-1 exhaust camshaft. When this code is triggered, the engine control module (ECM) says the camshaft is over-advanced. The timing of the over-advancing happens when the camshaft is advancing or retarding.

P0014 Code Definition

• P0014 Generic: Camshaft Position “B” – Timing Over – Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)
• P0014 Kia: Blink Code: 3,3 Open circuit to Front left outlet valve.
• P0014 Chevrolet: Exhaust Camshaft Position (CMP) System Performance
• P0014 Trailblazer: Camshaft Position B → Over Advanced → Bank 1
• P0014 Hyundai: Blink Code: 3,3 Open circuit to Front left outlet valve

What Does P0014 Mean?

The OBD-2 P0014 code means that the bank 1 exhaust camshaft has advanced beyond the instructions from the ECM. The advancing happens when the ECM tells the camshaft to retard or to advance.

The P0014 code activates when the variable valve timing sets the position of the camshaft too far from the normal spot the ECM tells it to be. In a Kia, this happens in bank-1.

When the P0014 code is initiated in a Chevy or Trailblazer, it is because the camshaft’s RPMs do not match the engine’s load. This happens when the camshaft is over-advanced.

The P0014 code in a Hyundai is prompted when the continuously variable valve timing has a problem controlling the intake camshaft. This causes the camshaft position to deviate from the norm. A Hyundai might also trigger the P0011 code simultaneously. 

What Are The Symptoms Of The P0014 Code?

A P0014 code is activated when a sensor informs the ECM that there is a problem with the camshaft. These are the other symptoms:

• The check engine light will turn on.
• The engine could have idling trouble.
• The engine could stall.
• The vehicle might not start as it should.
• The fuel economy can drop from the dysfunctional camshafts.
• The vehicle could fail an emissions test. 

What Are The Causes Of The P0014 Code?

The P0014 OBD-2 code has several possible causes. The causes include problems with the exhaust camshaft, oil viscosity, and solenoid. In most cases, the problem is caused by issues with sludgy, gunky oil making the engine dirty. 

• The exhaust camshaft advances when the ECM tells it to retard.
• The oil has too much viscosity, so the flow clogs the camshaft phasers.
• The camshaft phaser stalls
• The bank-1 camshaft oil control solenoid is left open.

How Serious Is P0014 Code?

The P0014 code can affect the engine, so it can be moderately serious. Fuel economy can be affected and the engine can have trouble running smoothly. If the code is not properly diagnosed and repaired, the engine could have further damage.

How To Diagnose The P0014 Code

Tools:

• OBD-2 scanner
•  Hand tools
• Vehicle service manual

Method:

1. First, determine if the code is accurate by using the OBD-2 scanner. Before making any repairs, check the wiring and connections of the sensors near the bank-1 camshaft.
2. The next step is to check the engine oil level. It should be the manufacturer’s recommended viscosity. Use the vehicle service manual to determine what the engine oil viscosity should be.
3. Use the OBD-2 scanner to check the engine code. Check the freeze frame data to find exactly what triggered the code and when it was triggered. Clear the code and start the car. Then, check the code again with the OBD-2 scanner.
4. Use hand tools to disconnect the oil control valve from the exhaust camshaft. After disconnecting the OCV, watch the timing data. If the data changes, the valve works, so the problem is in a sensor or ECM wiring.
5. Using the vehicle service manual, the final step is to follow the pinpoint tests for the code. If anything is wrong, the car should be taken to a licensed mechanic for necessary repairs.

What Are Common Mistakes While Diagnosing Code P0014?

Mechanics can make common mistakes while diagnosing this code. The mistakes are easy to miss.

• Not checking wiring and sensors for corrosion and flaws.
• Not checking if the engine is full of clean oil that is the proper viscosity.
• Failing to follow the manufacturer’s test procedures.
• Replacing components before determining what the actual problem is.

What Should I Do To Fix The Code P0014?

Common repairs can be simple using hand tools and a vehicle service manual.

• Prior to doing anything to the car, take it for a test drive. This will help you find out if there is anything wrong.
• The next step to repair the problem is to change the oil and filter.
• If the problem still exists, it might need a sensor replaced or repaired. Check the wiring of the one near the bank-1 exhaust camshaft.
• Reset the codes and test drive the car.
• Repair the bank-1 oil control valve (OCV) at the exhaust camshaft.
• You might also need to repair or replace the timing-chair tensioner for the camshaft.
• Finally, using the service manual, repair the timing chain and the camshaft phasers.

Tips To Avoid P0014 In The Future

To avoid problems with this code, you should have your vehicle properly maintained. The manufacturer’s service manual will tell you what maintenance should be performed at different mileage intervals. Change the oil as recommended and use the correct viscosity. Many times, the code is triggered because the engine is dirty from gunky oil.

Drive the car regularly, so the engine heats up and the oil moves through the engine. If you regularly drive in the city, then take your car on the highway and drive fast. Do not exceed posted speed limits, but give your engine a push by giving it time on the highway.

Read more: P0010 Code: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnostics, And Fixes