Fix P000B: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The P000B: “B” Camshaft Position Slow Response Bank 1 code signifies that the “B” camshaft in bank 1 of the engine is responding more slowly than expected to changes commanded by the engine control module. This issue is often related to the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system, which adjusts the timing of the camshaft to improve engine performance and efficiency. When the VVT system cannot adjust the camshaft position quickly enough, it can lead to reduced engine performance, increased emissions, or other drivability issues.

P000B quick overview

Meaning	P000B: “B” Camshaft Position Slow Response Bank 1
Is it serious?	This code can be serious as it indicates a problem with the vehicle’s engine timing, which can affect engine performance and efficiency.
Possible causes	– Faulty camshaft actuator or solenoid – Incorrect engine oil viscosity – Sludge build-up affecting VVT operation – Timing chain or belt problems – Poor electrical connections to the camshaft sensor or solenoid – Engine mechanical issues – Faulty Variable Valve Timing (VVT) control system
How to diagnose?	Check Oil Quality and Level: Verify the engine oil is the correct type and at the proper level. Inspect VVT Solenoid: Examine the VVT solenoid for damage, proper operation, and clean any sludge. Examine Timing Components: Ensure timing chains or belts are properly aligned and in good condition. Verify Oil Pressure: Confirm oil pressure is within the manufacturer’s specifications. Check Electrical Connections: Inspect wiring and connectors to the camshaft sensors and VVT solenoid for damage or corrosion. Scan for Other Codes: Look for additional diagnostic trouble codes that could be related to VVT system. Scope Camshaft and Crankshaft Sensors: Use an oscilloscope to analyze the signals from the camshaft and crankshaft sensors.

How to fix P000B – learn from mechanics

I looked into P000B 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: Chrysler

Vehicle Information: 2008 Chrysler Sebring 2.4L

Issue + Repair History:

• MIL on with codes P000B (bank 1 cam 2 slow to respond) and P0014 (bank 1 cam 2 position target performance).
• Vehicle only 2k miles out of warranty.
• No prior issues mentioned with camshaft phaser.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check if the vehicle was run low on oil.
• Inspect the cam phaser solenoids for debris and sticking.
• Ensure the use of the correct viscosity oil.
• Consider the possibility of poor oil maintenance affecting phaser or filter screen.
• Evaluate the Oil Control Valves (OCVs) for faults.

Final Fix:

• Replaced the oil control valve, changed the oil, and resolved the issue.

Case #2: Dodge

Vehicle Information: 2007 Dodge Caliber SXT 2.0L

Issue + Repair History:

• MIL on with codes P000A (camshaft 1 bank 1 not operating properly) and P000B (camshaft 2 bank 1 not operating properly).
• PCM reflashed and intake cam solenoid replaced.
• Camshaft cap closest to timing gears found cracked during inspection.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check for oil surge affecting solenoid operation.
• Flush the oil if necessary.
• Verify proper oil pressure for VVT system.
• Consider replacing both intake and exhaust solenoids.
• Look for signs of sludging, as it can cause phaser issues.

Final Fix:

• Pending customer approval for repair.
• Identified crack in the camshaft cap leading to insufficient hydraulic pressure for VVT system operation.

Case #3: Jeep

Vehicle Information: 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 5.7L

Issue + Repair History:

• Cylinder heads machined and pressure tested, new valve stem seals installed.
• After camshaft install, vehicle ran poorly with misfires and a P0016 code.
• Aftermarket lifters replaced with factory lifters.
• Found cam timing off by 1 tooth; corrected it.
• Several valves not holding tight, lapped and received new springs.
• Carbon buildup behind exhaust valves removed.
• Vehicle still threw a P000B code after warm-up.
• Performed hot oil flushes, replaced VVT solenoid, and installed a new Mopar VVT cam gear.
• Swapped known good cam sensor with no change.
• Mode 6 data showed VVT test fail.
• Aftermarket Melling camshaft and timing chain set with crank sprocket used in repair.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P0016: Crankshaft Position – Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)
• P000B: ‘B’ Camshaft Position Slow Response (Bank 1)

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check for oil surge affecting VVT system.
• Ensure correct oil weight is used.
• Consider the possibility of defective aftermarket parts.
• Verify camshaft and crankshaft timing alignment.
• Check for possible valve spring or camshaft issues.

Final Fix:

• Replaced with factory valve springs and a Mopar camshaft, resolving the cam desired/actual data discrepancy and the P000B code.
• Noted issues with aftermarket Melling parts in this specific repair case.

Case #4: BMW

Vehicle Information: 2008 BMW 328xi 3.0L

Issue + Repair History:

• Customer reported poor idle quality.
• Codes 2D06 (Air mass system), 29E0 (Mixture control), and P00BC (Mass air flow circuit A too low) were present.
• Replaced air flow sensor with no improvement.
• Observed high short and long-term fuel trims.
• Intermittent running condition: runs well with high fuel trims, runs poorly with low fuel trims.
• Suspected unmetered air leak, but no visible leaks found in the intake system.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• 2D06 – Air mass system
• 29E0 – Mixture control
• P00BC – Mass air flow circuit A too low

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check PCV and oil separator valves and hoses.
• Investigate crankcase breather which is integral to the valve cover.
• Evaluate for sludge blocking the breather in the valve cover.
• Examine the wiring to the MAF sensor for issues.
• Apply smoke to the crankcase to identify any air leaks.

Final Fix:

• Found a broken plastic pipe off the back of the valve cover, approximately 2 inches inside the foam insulation.
• Replaced the pipe and secured it properly without removing the intake, saving time.
• A smoke check would have located this leak, but required removal of many plastic components.
• Vehicle repaired successfully.

Case #5: Volvo

Vehicle Information: 2006 Volvo XC70 2.5L

Issue + Repair History:

• Customer reported P0027 code (camshaft exhaust faulty or slow response).
• Replaced both intake and exhaust solenoids with aftermarket parts (Pro Parts or Dorman).
• Fault not cleared, brought in for further diagnosis.
• Fault code ECM-614B (Exhaust camshaft control – Faulty) identified.
• Replaced actuator on camshaft sprocket with OEM and related components.
• Same P0027 code returned.
• Recommended warrantying the solenoid they had replaced.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Only use OEM camshaft solenoid adjusters.
• Clean ports with air and cleaner in case of sludging in VVT solenoid adjuster channels.
• Manually test the timing gear for movement.
• Check oil pressure and dipstick for bubbles when the vehicle is running.

Final Fix:

• Customer returned the aftermarket VVT unit and replaced it with OEM.
• No further issues with the light, and vehicle passed smog.

Takeaway Advice	Description of Diagnostic Step
Use OEM Parts	Replace aftermarket parts with OEM solenoids or actuators for compatibility and performance.
Oil Quality and Change	Ensure correct oil viscosity and consider changing oil if dirty or incorrect, as it can affect VVT system.
Check Oil Pressure	Verify oil pressure is within specifications, as low pressure can affect the VVT system.
Inspect Wiring and Connectors	Check the wiring and connectors to the camshaft solenoids for damage or poor connections.
Diagnose Timing Components	Ensure timing chain, gears, and related components are in good condition and properly aligned.
Check for Sludging	Inspect for engine sludging, particularly around VVT components, which can hinder operation.
Scope Camshaft Solenoid	Use a scope to check camshaft solenoid B+ and control, and observe cam and crank signals.
Software Update	Check for any available software updates for the PCM/ECM that might resolve the issue.