P0013 Code: exhaust camshaft position actuator circuit/open (bank 1) [How To Fix]

The engine is a complex system of many different moving and fixed parts. From time to time, a problem will arise. The ECU will notify the driver with a check engine light. When that happens, the driver should use an OBD-II scanner to identify the exact error. If you notice problems with starting the engine, the smell of gas, and rough idle, the culprit is often the P0013 code.

But what does a P0013 code refer to? It shows that the position actuator solenoid that is controlling the oil flow to the exhaust actuator has an open or short circuit. When this happens, the actuator will not receive proper fuel. This is usually triggered by an old and worn solenoid or its wiring. This error is always connected with the solenoid near Bank 1 near the first cylinder.

But to fully understand the problems with the P0013 error code, stay with us. We will define the code, explain the diagnosing process, and explain how to fix this issue. You should know that the P0013 is a serious problem, and driving with it will cause irreversible engine damage.

Understanding the Basics of OBD and the P0013 OBD2 Code

To fully understand the problem behind the P0013, we need to go through the camshaft actuator and how it works.

Origin of the OBD System and its Significance

The first OBD system was introduced back in 1968 by Volkswagen. From then on, different manufacturers implemented their error code systems. They didn’t have standardized error codes, which made diagnosing difficult.

The standardization of onboard diagnostics was completed by 1988. From 1996 every vehicle manufactured in the USA had to integrate the OBD-II diagnostic system.

This system allows you to access error codes for the engine, transmission, and emission control systems. Also, you can check the vehicle identification number (VIN) and the calibration identification number (CAL-ID).

Decoding the Meaning of the P0013 Code

Variable valve timing (VVT) is an internal combustion engine process when the valve lift event has the altering timing. Valves in the engine are driven by the camshafts depending on the flow and intake of the exhaust gases.

The camshaft timing depends on the camshaft actuators and the camshaft position actuator solenoid valves. The actuator solenoid valve regulates the flow of oil to the actuator. Then, depending on the need, the camshaft will advance or retard.

The ECM or powertrain control module (PCM) sends a pulse width signal to the solenoid. It can notify the solenoid to turn itself on or off. When the solenoid is turned on, more oil will go to the actuator.

The camshaft sensor (CMP) sends info to the PCM or the ECM in which position the camshaft should be. If the solenoid is not supplying the correct amount of oil to the actuator, the camshaft will be in the wrong position.

The PCM controls the solenoid. If it detects any strange activities from the camshaft actuator solenoid, it will send a P0013 code. The problem can be in the solenoid, circuit, or the wiring.

See Also: P0017 Code: How To Fix Crankshaft Position (Bank 1 Sensor B)

Causes and Symptoms of the P0013 Code

There are several causes for the P0013. They can vary, so you should know that you need to pay attention to these problems:

• Dirty engine oil
• Low engine oil pressure
• Low engine oil level
• Clogged or worn camshaft oil control valves
• Faulty actuator solenoid
• Short or open circuit of the solenoid
• Worn wiring of the solenoid
• Old and worn timing components
• Faulty camshaft position sensor
• Problems with the PCM

The common symptoms that you will notice are:

• Turned on the check engine light
• A drop in engine performance
• The smell of gas in the cabin
• A rise in engine fuel consumption
• Rough idling
• Problems with starting the car.

Impact of P0013 Code on Your Vehicle’s Performance

The camshaft is part of a combustion process that results in the moving of the vehicle. If the camshaft is not working properly you will notice that for sure. The most obvious problem is the lack of power. When you press the acceleration pedal, you won’t feel the engine power you are used to.

The loss of power is accompanied by other symptoms that will make your driving a problem. Those include stalling, rough idling, and poor fuel economy. When the problem advances, you will have problems with turning on the engine.

Step-by-Step Guide to Diagnosing the P0013 Code

To be sure what is causing the P0013, you should go through a step-by-step troubleshooting process:

• Visually inspect the exhaust camshaft’s oil control valve. Check the connectors, the wiring, and the overall state of the valve
• Check the condition and the level of engine oil. Excessive oil sludge buildup is a common cause of the P0013 error
• Clear the error code with the OBD-II scanner. Check will the error return. If it does, check the rest of the codes. Do a freeze frame data to see the moment when the error came up
• Do a check of the oil control valve with a multimeter. Set the multimeter to measure resistance (Ω). Good values are between 6.9Ω and 7.9Ω. Also, check the ECM connector for the short circuit wiring.

Essential Tools to Diagnose the P0013 Code

For the testing of the wiring and the circuit, you will need a multimeter. Besides that, you will need an OBD-II scanner to check for any other fault codes.

Simplified Process to Decode and Understand P0013 Code

Today’s modern engines don’t always work at the same speed. They gather information from the valve’s sensor and adjust the valve timing on those. That is called a variable timing system.

The ECM needs to regularly adjust the timing of the camshaft. It does it through the camshaft position actuator. When the RPM of the camshaft doesn’t change after the adjustment, that activates the P0013 error code.

How to Use an OBD Scanner for P0013 Code

The P0013 error code, in most cases, comes with other codes, like P0011, P0012, P0014, P0021, P0340, and P00345. That is why the OBD-II scanner is essential for resolving this issue. When you know all the problems the engine has, it is easier to resolve the issue.

Do a first checkup of the system. When the P0013 comes up, delete it. Start the engine again and wait for the error to come back again. Check for any other errors if they come up. You can do a freeze frame to note the time of occurrence. That can help you to determine what could cause this issue.

Demystifying the Process of Fixing P0013 Code

Since several components can be the reason behind the P0013 code, you should go through them one by one.

Common Fix to Resolve the P0013 Code

The first and maybe the best pick to start with is the oil system. Check the oil level and quality. See, when did you replace the engine oil and the filter the last time? Old engine oil and clogged engine oil filter often cause a P0013 code.

Next on the list are the connectors and the wiring of the actuator solenoid. When dealing with electronics, you can also check the camshaft position sensor.

Clogged camshaft oil control valves are also high on the list. If they are faulty, the camshaft and the crankshaft will not work in balance.

If nothing above resolves the issue, it is worth checking the timing components, like the timing belt or the tensioning pulley. The last on the list is the problem with the PCM itself. This is a rare but expensive fix.

Check Out How To Fix Code P0013 on Toyota Camry, Fixing Camshaft Position Sensor Code:

Tips to Prevent the P0013 Code from Recurring

The first thing when it comes to the engine is its maintenance. There are a variety of fault codes that can be avoided with proper and on-time maintenance. The essential thing to do is to change the engine oil and the filter on time. Then, some other filters and fluids have their correct time for replacement.

That way, you keep the system clean of any debris, and the fluids have optimum characteristics.

Expert Insights on P0013 Code

Mistakes to Avoid When Dealing with P0013 Code

Half of the job of every mechanic is visual inspection of the components. When you want to identify a cause for a P0013 code, you need to check not only the valve and the circuit but the whole VVT system. 

Case Studies: Resolving P0013 Code

Stevie, a mechanic from a well-respected local shop, resolved the dozens of P0013 error codes. This is his take on this problem.

Case Study: When a car comes into the shop, and it has a P0013 code, in most cases, the problem is either in the engine oil and the filter or in the camshaft oil control valve.

The first and easiest thing to do is to check the oil. If the oil is old, I replace it. Sometimes the level can be low, and then I check when the last oil change occurred. If it is time to change the oil, I change it. If it still has some mileage to the service, I add enough oil.

When it comes to the camshaft oil control valve, I remove it for inspection. I use a valve cleaner to clean it first. After that, I can properly inspect it. Then, I test it with a multimeter. I set the multimeter to measure resistance. I am looking for values between 6.9Ω and 7.9Ω. If there is no readout from the valve, it is broken and needs to be replaced.

FAQs About P0013 OBD2 Code

Need More Help with a P0013 Code?

Sometimes even after you read everything about a problem, you still can’t find a solution. You went through all the tutorials and videos, and the problem remains. In that case, you should look for professional help. An experienced mechanic knows the whole process of diagnosing the error and all the rare problems that can happen. Do not drive your car with this error. Fix it at all costs as soon as possible.