Fix P0014: Mechanic’s Solutions That WORKED!

The P0014 code signifies an issue with the camshaft position, indicating that the camshaft is not adjusting to the engine’s timing as it should.

This problem, known as “Camshaft Reset Valve, Incorrect Signal” or “Exhaust Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid Circuit Malfunction,” can lead to reduced engine performance, increased emissions, and in some cases, no noticeable drivability issues.

P0014 quick overview

Meaning	P0014 – Camshaft Reset Valve, Incorrect Signal / Exhaust VVT Solenoid Circuit Malfunction
Is it serious?	Yes, it can lead to poor engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and potential engine damage.
Possible causes	– Faulty camshaft position actuator solenoid – Incorrect oil viscosity affecting VVT operation – Timing chain wear or improper alignment – Low oil level or pressure
How to diagnose?	Scope cam and crank signals to assess their relative position and quality. Check oil viscosity and pressure to ensure proper operation of VVT components. Inspect the timing belt/chain for proper alignment and wear. Consider mechanical issues like oil pressure problems or solenoid restrictions.

How to fix P0014 – learn from mechanics

I looked into P0014 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: Volvo P0014

Vehicle information 2000 Volvo S40 1.9L

Issue + repair history

• Check engine light on, showing code P0014 for Camshaft Reset Valve, Incorrect Signal
• Lack of information on diagnostic procedures due to requirement of Factory Scan Tool
• Previous repairs include replacing the Camshaft Reset Valve and Camshaft Position Sensor

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P0014: Camshaft Reset Valve, Incorrect Signal
• Other related Volvo codes: ECM-5E, ECM-5F, ECM-61
• Test results show CRV Duty Cycle at 12% in shop

Mechanic suggestions

• Use a lab scope to monitor cam and crank signals for relative position and quality
• Check for any mechanical problems preventing timing changes, such as oil pressure issues or solenoid restrictions
• Inspect the timing belt and ensure proper alignment, especially if components like the water pump have been replaced

Final fix

• Timing kit replacement fixed the issue

Case #2: Nissan P0014

Vehicle information 2014 Nissan Versa 1.6 SV 1.6L

Issue + repair history

• Check engine light on, showing code P0014 for Exhaust VVT Solenoid Circuit Malfunction
• Previous shop replaced VVT solenoid and cam sensor, but code persisted after test driving
• Limited experience with diagnosing this issue, seeking assistance from the community

Related Repair History

• Initial diagnosis revealed code P0014
• Previous shop replaced VVT solenoid and cam sensor
• Code persisted after repairs, prompting further diagnosis

Mechanic suggestions

• Scope crank and both cam sensors on 3 different channels to compare correlation with a known good waveform
• Check oil viscosity and pressure to ensure proper lubrication of VVT components
• Perform a compression test or leak-down test to assess engine health and potential timing issues
• Inspect for sludge buildup or debris accumulation around the camshaft and VVT components
• Consider the possibility of engine timing issues due to stretched chain or poor maintenance history

Final fix

• Identified faulty camshaft sensor as the root cause of the P0014 code
• Replaced camshaft sensor with OEM part sourced from the dealer
• Cleared fault codes and conducted test drive, confirming successful repair

Case #3: Hyundai P0014

Vehicle information 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.0T 2.0L

Issue + repair history

• Vehicle sets code P0014 shortly after starting
• Previous shop replaced both cams and phasers, as well as the exhaust oil control valve (dealer part), but code persists
• No noticeable drivability issues despite the presence of the code
• Suspected issue with camshaft timing due to abnormal VVT control specs

Related Repair History

• Previous shop replaced both cams and timing components in an attempt to resolve P0014 code
• Despite repairs, code P0014 remained persistent, prompting further diagnosis

Mechanic suggestions

• Scope cams and crank correlation against a known good reading to assess timing accuracy
• Check oil pressure and flow, as well as the condition of cam journal bearings and oil passages for signs of wear or blockage
• Verify proper installation of components, including chains and tensioners, and inspect for potential damage
• Consider mechanical issues related to oil pressure or flow, as these are often the root cause of P0014 codes

Final fix

• Discovered that the wrong head was installed by the previous shop, leading to oil pressure loss within the top end
• Replaced the incorrect head with the appropriate one, restoring normal oil pressure and resolving the P0014 code
• No further codes observed, monitors set to pass inspection

Diagnostic Step	Explanation
Scope cam and crank signals	Monitor signals for relative position and quality to assess timing accuracy.
Check oil viscosity and pressure	Ensure oil is of correct viscosity and pressure is within specs for VVT operation.
Inspect timing belt/chain and tensioner	Look for proper alignment, wear, or damage to timing components.
Inspect camshaft position actuator solenoid	Check for any signs of failure or mechanical issues preventing proper operation.
Perform engine health tests	Conduct compression or leak-down tests to assess overall engine condition.

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