Engine mechanicalSeverity Medium: diagnose soon

P0013"B" Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)

What it means

The ECU sees an electrical fault in the control circuit of the camshaft timing solenoid (oil control valve) for the exhaust (or right/rear) camshaft, bank 1.

Symptoms

  • Check engine light
  • Rough idle or stalling
  • Loss of power or poor fuel economy
  • Rattle on start-up (worn phaser)

Common causes

  • Open or shorted solenoid winding
  • Wiring or connector fault
  • ECU driver fault

What to check first

  1. Measure the solenoid resistance (often 6–12 Ω)
  2. Check supply and control with the key on
  3. Command the solenoid with a scan tool and listen for a click
Can I drive with P0013? Usually yes for a short distance, but performance or economy may suffer and the fault can get worse. Diagnose it soon.

Generic OBD-II meaning. Manufacturer-specific meanings and checks can differ; always check the service information for the car.

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P0013: questions and answers

What does P0013 mean?

P0013: "B" Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1). The ECU sees an electrical fault in the control circuit of the camshaft timing solenoid (oil control valve) for the exhaust (or right/rear) camshaft, bank 1.

What are the symptoms of P0013?

Check engine light. Rough idle or stalling. Loss of power or poor fuel economy. Rattle on start-up (worn phaser).

What causes P0013?

Open or shorted solenoid winding. Wiring or connector fault. ECU driver fault.

How do you diagnose P0013?

1. Measure the solenoid resistance (often 6–12 Ω) 2. Check supply and control with the key on 3. Command the solenoid with a scan tool and listen for a click

Can I drive with P0013?

Usually yes for a short distance, but performance or economy may suffer and the fault can get worse. Diagnose it soon.