P0013: “B” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 1)

What is P0013?

P0013 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that stands for “Exhaust ‘B’ Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 1)” or “B Camshaft Position – Open or Short in Oil Control Valve (OCV) (Bank 1).”

This code indicates an issue with the variable valve timing (VVT) system, specifically with the exhaust camshaft position (CMP) actuator circuit on Bank 1 (the side of the engine with cylinder 1). It occurs when the engine control module (ECM) or powertrain control module (PCM) detects an open circuit or a short in the CMP actuator solenoid valve.

In traditional engines, valve timing is fixed. However, engines with VVT can adjust the timing of the camshaft to optimize performance and fuel efficiency.

For this, the VVT system relies on:

1. The camshaft actuator and cam phaser to adjust the position of the camshaft.
2. VVT solenoids (the entire OCV assembly) to control the oil flow to the camshaft actuators.
3. The ECM or PCM to control the camshaft position actuator solenoids for oil flow and timing adjustments.

If the system is compromised (due to a defective part or an old one), it can prevent proper oil flow. When the ECM detects a problem, such as an electrical fault in the solenoid valve, it triggers the P0013 code. 

What Triggers a P0013 Code?

A P0013 code often occurs when a faulty exhaust camshaft actuator solenoid disrupts oil flow and affects the engine’s exhaust release.

Other causes include:

1. Oil Issues

Low oil pressure or using dirty or old engine oil can trigger a P0013 code.

2. Wiring Issues

The VVT system depends on a stable electrical ground (low reference circuit) and power supply (high reference circuit) to operate the oil control valve. Problems like an open circuit, short to ground, or faulty electrical connector disrupt this flow, prompting the ECM to trigger code P0013.

3. Engine Control Module (ECM) or ECU (Engine Control Unit)-related Issues

A fault in the high control circuit (power sent from the ECM to the valve) may prevent the ECM or ECU from properly regulating the OCV. Similarly, a failure in the return circuit (feedback signals sent from the valve back to the ECM) can cause a mismatch between the ECM’s voltage signal and the valve’s response. 

It can lead to:

• Overperforming valve: When the ECM tells the OCV to operate at less than 80% power and the actual output is 100%.
  
• Underperforming valve: When the ECM commands the valve to operate at 70% power, but the actual output is under 3%.

A pending software update in PCM might also impact VVT performance and trigger code P0013.

4. Other Issues

Other causes include a broken cam sensor or damaged components within the variable camshaft timing system.

What Are the Common Symptoms of the P0013 Error Code?

A P0013 error code can manifest in the following ways: 

• An illuminated check engine light
• The car may stall
• Performance issues – decrease in acceleration and engine power
• A rattling noise from your engine
• Uneven or rough engine
• Increased fuel consumption

NOTE: Symptoms may differ with variable camshaft timing positions.

How Serious Is P0013, and Can You Continue to Drive?

The P0013 fault code is moderately serious and shouldn’t be ignored. 

DTC P0013 indicates a timing issue in your vehicle that can cause misfires, reduced fuel efficiency, and carbon buildup on engine valve parts.

Continuing to drive with a P0013 trouble code can result in irreversible engine damage, costly repairs, and even complete engine failure. 

It’s best to stop driving and take care of the issue promptly.

How to Diagnose Code P0013?

Unless you are an expert, it’s best to let professionals handle it with care. They may start by asking you a couple of diagnostic questions to suggest possible solutions. 

Here’s what a mechanic will do for diagnosing and troubleshooting code P0013:

1. Check for any electrical connector, wiring harness, or mechanical issue in parts associated with the oil control valve for the Bank 1 exhaust camshaft. They’ll also check the valve solenoid voltage using a digital volt-ohm meter.
2. Scan the computer codes to see when the code was triggered.
3. Clear the error code and test drive your car to see if it returns (P0013 isn’t a permanent code).
4. Check the OCV for the correct resistance (between 6.9-7.9 ohms) and the ECM connector for wiring issues.
5. Test the VVT solenoid with a 12-volt pulse to ensure it works correctly. When power is applied, the solenoid should click or respond.
6. If the code returns, they’ll perform a manufacturer’s specific test for code P0013 and repair parts accordingly.

What Are the Possible Solutions for P0013?

Here’s a quick list of repairs a mechanic may perform:

• Change the exhaust camshaft oil control valve for Bank 1
• Repair the Bank 1 exhaust camshaft OCV wiring
• Replace the VVT solenoid
• Change engine oil and filter
• Replace the engine control module (if faulty)

What are the Estimated Costs of Repair?

The money you spend on repairs depends on the underlying problem as well as your car’s model and specifications.

Here are some estimated costs:

• Oil control valve replacement: $200 to $600
• Variable valve timing control solenoid replacement: $350 to $450
• Oil change: $30 (conventional oil) to $250+ (luxury vehicles)
• Oil filter change: $4 to $15 (for DIY repair)
• Repairing a damaged wiring or connection: $50 to $550
• Replacing your car’s ECM: $800 and $1,500  

NOTE: Coverage for specific engine components under warranty might help you save money on repairs. However, check for service charges and small commission fees built into the auto repair pricing. Also, review the warranty terms carefully to understand what is included.

How Does the Camshaft Actuator Work?

Your car’s engine control module (ECM) sends quick electrical pulses to the VVT solenoid to control oil flow and the camshaft position actuator.

These pulse durations determine how much oil pressure is applied to the CMP actuator. Increased pressure enables the cam phaser to adjust the camshaft’s position precisely.

The camshaft position sensor monitors how well the camshaft is moving and reports back to the ECM. The ECM supplies power via a high control circuit to the OCV assembly, enabling precise adjustments to the camshaft’s position. 

If the camshaft can’t reach this angle, even with increasing oil pressure and the solenoid’s correct resistance, the ECM triggers a P0013 error engine code.

NOTE: The process depends on your car’s model and engine specifications.