Fix P0013: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The code P0013: “B” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1) indicates a problem with the electrical circuit that controls the camshaft position actuator for one of the engine’s banks. This can lead to issues with the engine’s timing and overall performance.

P0013 quick overview

Meaning	P0013: “B” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)
Is it serious?	Yes, it can affect engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Possible causes	– Faulty camshaft position actuator (solenoid valve) – Wiring issues or poor electrical connection for the actuator circuit – Engine oil that is dirty or the wrong viscosity – Mechanical timing issues
How to diagnose?	Check engine light: Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0013 code. Wiring inspection: Check the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion. Oil condition: Verify that the engine oil is clean and of the correct type. Solenoid testing: Test the operation of the camshaft position actuator solenoid. Timing components: Check the mechanical timing components for wear or damage.

In simpler terms, this code suggests that there’s an electrical glitch affecting how the engine controls the timing of its valves. This might cause your engine to run poorly, become less fuel-efficient, or even have trouble starting. It’s best to get it checked out to prevent any further complications with your engine.

How to fix P0013 – learn from mechanics

I looked into P0013 service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.

Case #1: Mini

Vehicle Information 2010 Mini Cooper 1.6L

Issue + Repair History

• Check engine light on
• Code P0013 (camshaft position actuator circuit/open)
• Car from body shop, no engine damage visible
• Swapped exhaust to intake actuator; code remained the same

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• No other codes mentioned

Suggestions to Fix Issue

• Check voltage on orange wire at exhaust vanos actuator
• Load check white wire from exhaust vanos actuator to DME (engine control module)
• Ohm check camshaft position actuator for open windings
• Inspect for possible damaged wire or connector
• Consider DME replacement if car was in a significant collision

Final Fix

• Ohm checked both sensors; readings matched
• Checked all wiring from PCM to sensors; all good
• Sent to Mini dealership
• Dealership replaced a VANOS solenoid; light turned off

Case #2: Chevrolet

Vehicle Information 2013 Chevrolet Equinox LS 2.4L

Issue + Repair History

• MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) intermittently on, now consistently on
• Codes:
  P0013 (Exhaust camshaft position actuator),
  P0014 (Exhaust camshaft position performance),
  P0171 (Fuel trim system lean),
  P219A (Fuel ratio imbalance)
• High long-term fuel trim (20+), low short-term fuel trim (-2 or +2)
• Previous visit to quick lube before issue onset

What Are People Suggesting to Fix Issue

• Check oil weight, pull valve timing solenoids for metal or sludge
• Inspect for a stretched timing chain
• Examine air filter, check for incorrect Ho2s part number
• Replace exhaust actuator solenoid, check wiring
• Look for a cracked exhaust manifold
• Inspect freeze frame data, compare desired vs. actual cam position
• Replace timing chains
• Check air intake, MAF readings, PCV system
• Replace both cam actuator solenoids due to common failure

Final Fix

• Specific fix not detailed, but vehicle was working fine with no check engine light after considering community suggestions. Lean code did not reappear despite high long-term fuel trims.

Case #3: Chevrolet

Vehicle Information
2012 Chevrolet Colorado LT, 2.9L engine

Issue + Repair History
The truck had a lower end knock due to a failed #4 rod bearing. The mechanic installed a new crankshaft, bearings, and reassembled the motor. Post-assembly, the truck ran roughly and produced P0013 and P0017 codes. Despite multiple attempts including adjusting the cam phaser bolt, cleaning solenoid, changing oil, and resetting chains, the truck would stall during driving.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results
Post-repair, the truck showed P0014 and P0017 codes. No OBD2 data after the truck was sent to the dealership.

What Are People Suggesting to Fix Issue

• Checking the electrical circuit for the exhaust cam VVT solenoid.
• Ensuring proper timing of the balance shafts.
• Verifying the crank source.
• Running a hot oil pressure test.
• Replacing the engine due to high mileage and multiple issues.

What Was the Final Fix
A Chevrolet dealer discovered a P0017 code that the mechanic’s scanner missed. The final fix involved installing a new cam actuator gear and re-cleaning the solenoid. After these adjustments and another oil change, the vehicle operated fine without stalling.

Case #4: Volvo

Vehicle Information
1999 Volvo C70, 2.4L

Issue + Repair History
Initially, the car had a code scan and clearing elsewhere, then had a catalytic converter replacement. It returned with a check engine light and intermittent misfiring. The code P1332 was present, leading to a replacement of the camshaft position sensor. However, the car returned with the same P1332 code and a new P0013 code. After scoping the cam/crank sensors and not duplicating the misfire, the technician found the camshaft reset valve (VVT actuator) had high resistance (28k ohms vs. the spec of 3.9 ohms).

What Are People Suggesting to Fix Issue

• Checking if the timing belt has been replaced.
• Ensuring proper timing belt installation.
• Checking the wiring harness to the VVT solenoid.
• Unplugging the mass airflow sensor to diagnose.
• Locating and verifying the RPM sensor.
• Inspecting the timing belt, tensioner, and doing an oil flush/change.
• Replacing the CVVT solenoid valve with a new gasket.
• Checking for a pinched wire under the cover.
• Inspecting the CVVT hub for gunk buildup.

What Was the Final Fix
The VVT actuator was replaced due to its extremely high resistance. The customer remained happy with the fix. The technician also checked the timing belt during the process and found it to be in good condition.

Case #5: BMW

Vehicle Information
2007 BMW 328xi 3.0L

Issue + Repair History
After a valve cover gasket replacement and front brake job, the car had a hard loping idle with constant misfires. Codes: 2A82 VANOS inlet control, P0015 exhaust camshaft position timing, P0341 cam position circuit A, P0013 cam position actuator circuit/open.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results
No additional test results provided.

What Are People Suggesting to Fix Issue

• Check for excessive engine vacuum and PCV system in the valve cover.
• Check if valve cover cleaning damaged the oil vapor control diaphragm.
• Inspect for oil in the electrical connector on top of the valve cover.
• Look for air leaks, possible VANOS adjuster motor seal leak, or cracked valve cover.
• Recheck the connector of the eccentric shaft actuator.
• Ensure VANOS solenoid plugs are not swapped.
• Double-check all connectors and grounds.
• Use a smoke machine to check for vacuum leaks.
• Consider the possibility of damage to the exhaust cam position sensor.

What Was the Final Fix
The mechanic cleaned the VANOS solenoids, replaced a failed coil, and changed the engine oil that looked like muddy water.

Advice	Diagnostic Step Description
Check for excessive engine vacuum	Attempt to remove the oil fill cap while the engine is running to assess vacuum.
Inspect PCV system in the valve cover	Evaluate the PCV system integrated into the valve cover for issues.
Look for oil in electrical connectors	Check the electrical connector on top of the valve cover for oil contamination.
Examine for air leaks	Use a smoke machine or other methods to detect vacuum leaks in the system.
Ensure correct VANOS/VVT solenoid connections	Verify that VANOS solenoid plugs are not swapped and are securely connected.
Double-check all connectors and grounds	Revisit all electrical connections and grounding points for proper installation.
Consider potential sensor damage	Assess the condition of sensors like the exhaust cam position sensor for any damage.