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 code. P0013 is a trouble code that usually appears due to faulty solenoids. This article explains the symptoms and causes of P0013.
P0013 Definition
Exhaust Camshaft Position B – Open or short in Oil Control Valve (Bank 1).
What Does the P0013 Code Mean?
The P0013 is an engine trouble code that indicates that the solenoid that regulates the oil flow to the exhaust actuator is malfunctioning. VVT (variable valve timing) engines rely on VVT solenoids to increase their performance and fuel economy.
In other words, the trouble code P0013 indicates that the PCM has detected an open or short circuit in the exhaust camshaft OCV of bank 1.
To improve engine timing for optimal engine performance, the latest cars contain an electronic circuit. 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.
A fault in the solenoid that controls the flow of oil to the exhaust actuator usually leads to the engine code P0013.
Causes of P0013
The following are the potential causes of code P0013:
- Oil control valves that are clogged or lousy
- 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
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
- Rattling noise from the engine
- Trouble starting and missing in cold weather
- The smell of gas when starting in cold weather
- Engine running rough
- Poor mileage
Read More: Symptoms and causes of P0012
How to diagnose the P0013 Code
- Make sure the wiring electrical connector on bank 1 is in good condition.
- Use an OBDII scanner to clear the code.
- If the code returns after clearing the p0013 codes, then make a test drive of the vehicle for 14 to 25 minutes.
- Properly scan other codes and record freeze frame data to find the time of the malfunction.
- Ensure OCV resistance is between 6.9 and 7.9.
- Ensure that the wiring connections are not shorted or open.
- When the code reappears, perform the automaker’s recommended pinpoint analysis and fix the problem.
- Refer to your manufacturer’s manual instructions on detecting and correcting the p0013 error code.
Read More: Different types of Engines
How to fix Code P0013?
- Replace the engine oil filters
- Make sure the coolant is full
- Change the engine oil
- Electrical Fault Troubleshooting
- Inspect worn timing components and replace them if needed
- Make sure the engine oil is full and add more if needed
- Replace the crankshaft position sensor and camshaft position sensor
For better understanding, follow the below-given video to fix the P0013 trouble code:
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.
How much does it cost to fix code P0113?
From faulty wiring to a bad sensor, P0113 can be caused by many things. Without proper diagnosis, it is impossible to estimate the repair cost accurately.
Most auto shops will begin diagnosing your car with an hour of “diag time” (labor time spent diagnosing your problem). The average repair or fixing cost of P0013 is from $70 to $160, depending on the shop’s labor rate.
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.
