The efficient working of the vehicle engine is very important for the efficient working of the vehicle. Whenever any of your engine sensors goes bad, the engine sends a signal to the powertrain control module (PCM). Whenever the PCM notices any fault, it triggers a trouble code. P0013 is a trouble code that usually appears due to an open or short circuit within the bank 1 exhaust camshaft oil control valve. This article explains the P0013 meaning, causes, symptoms, and how to fix it.
P0013 Code Definition
Exhaust Camshaft Position B – Open or short in Oil Control Valve (Bank 1).
What Does the P0013 Code Mean?
The P0013 code indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an open or short circuit in the bank 1 exhaust camshaft oil control valve.
The oil control valve is also known as the VVT (variable valve timing) solenoid. It regulates the oil flow to the actuators. The VVT (variable valve timing) engines rely on VVT solenoids to increase their performance and fuel economy.
To improve engine timing for optimal engine performance, the latest cars contain electronic actuators. To improve output power and fuel efficiency, your engine’s intake and exhaust valves are opened and closed through actuators using information from the camshaft position sensor.
You will notice an improved fuel economy when everything is working accurately than when a regular camshaft is used alone.
Your vehicle check engine light will turn on, or you may get a P0010 or P0013 code if any of your engine sensors (such as MAP sensor, IAT sensor, or oil control sensor) isn’t working properly or your PCM detects an erroneous reading from the camshaft position sensor.
When the PCM monitors a fault in the solenoid that controls the flow of oil to the exhaust actuator, it triggers the engine code P0013.
Causes of P0013 Code
The following are the potential causes of code P0013:
- Faulty or clogged oil control valve
- The actuator solenoid has poor electrical connectivity
- Low or dirty engine oil
- Low oil pressure
- Fault in actuator solenoid
- Shortened or opened actuator solenoid
- Fault in PCM
- Worn timing components
- Loose connections
Symptoms of Code P0013
The P0113 code is usually only noticeable by the Check Engine Light. Another possible symptom occurs when ambient temperatures drop below normal.
The following are the most common symptoms of P0013:
- Blinking check engine light
- A rattling noise from the engine
- Hard to start the engine
- The smell of gas when starting in cold weather
- Engine running rough
- Poor fuel efficiency
Read More: Symptoms and causes of P0012
How to diagnose the P0013 Code
To diagnose the P0013 code, follow the following steps:
- Use an OBD-II scanner to ensure the existence of the P0013 code and other relevant codes.
- Properly scan other codes and record freeze frame data to find the time of the malfunction. Clear the code and perform a test drive.
- If the code returns, then inspect the system deeply.
- Make sure the wiring electrical connector on bank 1 is in good condition.
- Check the oil level and condition.
- Test the oil pressure flowing through the camshaft phaser. Calculate the oil pressure at different engine rpms by using the best suitable tool.
- Check your camshaft sensor for a fault.
- Properly inspect the physical condition of the timing belt or chain.
- Use a voltmeter to check the resistance of the oil control valve. The resistance should be between 6.9 and 7.9.
- Ensure that the wiring connections are not shorted or open.
- After making the necessary repairs, clear the codes and perform a test drive.
Read More: Different types of Engines
How to fix Code P0013?
To fix the P0013 code, you need to make one or more of the following repairs:
- Replace the faulty oil filters
- Make sure the engine coolant is full
- Repair the damaged wires connected to the Bank 1 exhaust camshaft oil control valve
- Replace the bad oil control valve
- Inspect worn timing components and replace them if needed
- Make sure the engine oil is full and add more if needed
- Replace the bad crankshaft position sensor and camshaft position sensor
- Change the bad camshaft phasers
How much does it cost to fix the P0013 Code?
From damaged wiring to a bad sensor, P0013 can be caused by many things. Without proper diagnosis, it is impossible to estimate the repair cost accurately.
Following are the major repair costs of P0013 which include the repair cost of the relevant parts and labor costs.
| Parts | Costs |
| Oil filter replacement | $45 to $85 |
| Intake valve timing solenoid replacement | $270 to $600 |
| Oil control valve replacement | $130 to $500 |
| Timing belt replacement | $920 to $5100 |
| Oil pump replacement | $180 to $1,600 |
How to prevent P0013 Code?
Follow the following control measures to prevent the P0013 code from triggering:
- Avoid harsh driving
- Always try to prevent your engine from overheating
- Ensure proper cleaning of air and oil filters
- Address check engine light promptly
- Ensure sufficient level of oil in your vehicle
- Always use good quality fuel
- Avoid extended oil change intervals
- Ensure regular maintenance of your system
FAQ Section
How Serious is the P0013 Code?
P0013 trouble code is a moderate repair case. It may not require immediate attention. Nevertheless, if you choose to drive with a registered P0013 error code, you may experience the following problems;
- Hesitation and rough idling of the engine.
- Engine stalling
- The carbon will accumulate in the valve compartment
- High fuel mileage.
- An extended period of driving with this issue can result in the PCM malfunctioning.
Can I drive my car with a P0013 code?
It’s possible to drive with a P0013, but it’s not advisable since it indicates a malfunction in the engine components. Acceleration may be hindered because the engine won’t work as it should.
What repairs can fix the P0013 code?
- Replace timing belt
- Perform an oil change
- Replace exhaust valve timing solenoid
- Check engine oil and add more if needed
- Check and repair the electrical wiring
- Replace camshaft actuator
- Check the PCM and replace it if needed
- Check and install the new camshaft oil control valve for the bank 1 exhaust camshaft.
- Replace the oil filters
Is P0013 intake or exhaust?
Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0013 stands for “Exhaust “B” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 1). P0013 is a trouble code for exhaust. It is a trouble code related to variable valve timing (VVT) systems.
Can low oil cause P0013?
Yes, a low oil level can cause P0013. Therefore, as you notice the symptoms of code P0013, you must check the engine oil level through the oil dipstick. Your vehicle’s VVT system requires a proper supply of oil pressure for efficient working. If your engine oil is lower than the desired level, refill it and then drive the vehicle.
What does the engine variable timing solenoid do?
A VVT solenoid is an important part of the variable valve timing system that regulates oil flow according to the engine load and speed. A properly functioning VVT solenoid improves fuel economy and engine performance.