P0014: "B" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)

What does P0014 mean?

Engines with variable valve timing (VVT) use oil pressure, a control solenoid and a cam phaser to move the camshaft relative to the crankshaft. The ECM compares the actual cam position with its target. When the "B" camshaft on bank 1 is advanced past its limit, or does not follow commands, it stores P0014.

The "B" camshaft is the exhaust, right or rear camshaft, and bank 1 is the side with cylinder 1. Because the system runs on engine oil, low oil level or the wrong oil is one of the first things both references say to check.

Common symptoms

• Check engine light on
• Hard starting
• Rough or unstable idle
• Stalling
• Lower fuel economy or reduced power

Common causes

The causes below are the ones commonly seen with P0014. The actual cause can vary by vehicle, engine and mileage, so treat this list as a starting point, not a diagnosis.

• A faulty camshaft timing control solenoid (oil control valve), for example stuck open
• Low engine oil level, or oil that does not meet the manufacturer's specification
• A faulty variable valve timing actuator (cam phaser)
• Incorrect camshaft timing, for example from a worn or stretched timing chain
• Wiring or connector problems in the timing control solenoid circuit

What to check with a scanner

• Check the oil level and condition before anything else, and confirm the oil grade matches the owner's manual.
• Read freeze frame data for rpm, load and oil or engine temperature when the code set.
• Note companion codes such as P0011, P0016, P0017 or camshaft sensor codes, which help tell an oil control problem from a timing problem.
• Clear the code after any oil correction and see whether it returns on the next drives.

How to read and clear P0014 with OBD Master Pro

1. Plug in your adapter. Connect a generic ELM327 (or ELM329) OBD2 adapter to the diagnostic port, usually under the dashboard on the driver's side. Bluetooth Classic, Bluetooth LE, Wi-Fi and USB OTG adapters are supported.
2. Switch the ignition on. Turn the key to ON or start the engine, depending on your car.
3. Connect in OBD Master Pro. Open the app, go to Connection and pick your adapter. Classic Bluetooth adapters connect from the Bluetooth tab, Bluetooth LE adapters from the BLE tab with no pairing needed. Use the generic OBD2 / EOBD profile or your car's brand profile.
4. Read the codes. Open the fault codes screen to see stored, pending and permanent codes. Confirm P0014 is listed and note any other codes, since they often explain the cause.
5. Check the details. Look at freeze frame data, Live data and, where your car supports it, Mode 06 test results (see the checks above).
6. Fix, then clear. After the repair, clear the codes to turn off the check engine light. Clearing also resets the emissions readiness monitors, so drive normally and check the readiness screen before any inspection. Permanent codes cannot be erased with a scan tool; they clear on their own once the car's self test passes.

Tip: you can also look up P0014 and other codes in the app's DTC search without connecting to a car. If your adapter will not connect, use Connection > Share connection log and email it to support. Many cheap ELM327 clones only handle basic engine OBD2, which is all you need for P0014.

When to see a mechanic

Get professional help if any of these apply:

• The code returns after an oil change to the correct grade
• You hear rattling from the timing chain area at start up
• Several timing correlation codes appear together
• The engine stalls or will not start

If you are unsure, a qualified technician can confirm the cause with tests such as smoke testing, pressure testing or scope readings. Clearing a code does not repair the fault.

Related trouble codes

See all OBD2 trouble code guides

Related guides

Check engine light on: what to do · How to read an OBD2 code (P, B, C, U) · Stored, pending and permanent codes and freeze frame · OBD2 readiness monitors explained · OBD2 glossary · OBD2 by car brand