What Does P0013 Mean?
The PCM has detected a malfunction in the exhaust camshaft position actuator solenoid circuit on Bank 1. This is an electrical circuit code indicating an open circuit, high resistance, or loss of signal in the wiring between the PCM and the exhaust VVT oil control valve. The PCM cannot properly control exhaust cam timing.
Common Causes
35%
Damaged, corroded, or disconnected wiring harness connector at the Bank 1 exhaust VVT solenoid
30%
Failed Bank 1 exhaust VVT oil control valve with open internal coil
20%
Broken or chafed wire in the circuit between the PCM and the exhaust VVT solenoid
10%
Corroded PCM connector pin or internal PCM driver circuit failure
5%
Short to ground in the VVT solenoid control circuit
Diagnostic Steps
1
Locate the Bank 1 exhaust VVT solenoid and inspect the electrical connector for corrosion, bent pins, or moisture intrusion
2
Measure solenoid coil resistance with a multimeter — should read 6.9-7.9 ohms; infinite resistance indicates an open coil requiring replacement
3
With the solenoid disconnected, measure circuit continuity from the PCM connector to the solenoid connector — resistance should be less than 2 ohms on both wires
4
Check for voltage at the solenoid connector with key on engine off: battery voltage (12V+) on the power supply wire, and ground pulse signal on the control wire
5
Wiggle-test the harness while monitoring solenoid resistance to isolate intermittent open circuit conditions
Estimated Repair Cost
$80 - $500
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The PCM has detected a malfunction in the exhaust camshaft position actuator solenoid circuit on Bank 1. This is an electrical circuit code indicating an open circuit, high resistance, or loss of signal in the wiring between the PCM and the exhaust VVT oil control valve. The PCM cannot properly cont...
The most common cause of P0013 (Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit / Open (Bank 1)) is: Damaged, corroded, or disconnected wiring harness connector at the Bank 1 exhaust VVT solenoid
Typical repair costs for P0013 range from $80 to $500, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
The exhaust cam will default to its base timing position. Expect reduced performance, slightly higher emissions, and possible rough idle. Safe to drive short distances but should be repaired to restore proper engine operation.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0013 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) System
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
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