Error Code P0013: What It Means & What To Do?

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Is your Car’s Check Engine Light illuminating on the dashboard? Do you find sudden decrease in the fuel economy? And is the car engine running rough with black smoke coming from tailpipe? This might be the indication of problems with the oxygen sensor of the car which in other words can be an OBD P0013 error.

OBD-II Code P0013 is defined as a "B" Camshaft Position - Actuator Circuit/Open

Newer vehicles use a variable timing system to adjust the timing of the intake and exhaust valves in an effort to increase fuel efficiency and performance. The engine control module (PCM) uses a Camshaft Position Actuator to adjust the camshaft accordingly. If the Camshaft does not respond as the PCM requests, the PCM will set code P0013.

What causes this problem with the "B" Camshaft Position - Actuator Circuit?

• The ECM has commanded the OCV to less than 80% duty cycle and output is 100%
• The ECM has commanded the OCV up to 70% and output is less than 3%
• The OCV or wiring to the bank 1 exhaust camshaft may be shorted out
• The OCV may have an open circuit or the wiring is open

1. Engine Control Module - P0013 code can display due to faulty engine control module. So, it is very important to replace the engine control module with us at equitable prices.
2. Powertrain Control Module - Defective powertrain control module can cause a lot of difficulties, so why not get it replaced at time?
3. Diagnostic Tool - If you are searching for few diagnostic tools to get your car problems pointed out easily. Our diagnostic tools collection will come handy to do so, so why not have a look?
4. Auto Switches & Sensors - Common causes behind that P0013 error code can be defective switches or faulty sensors. So, it will be a good decision to replace them now.
5. Camshaft & Parts - The camshaft can be damaged or stretched, so you must get it repaired or replaced at time.

You might be thinking that how would you diagnose these problems? We at Parts Avatar Canada would help you diagnose the major symptoms easily.

Common Symptoms

• The check engine light would be turned ON by the ECM
• The engine may start facing a hard start condition if OCV is shorted
• The engine will have a decrease in fuel mileage if the OCV is shorted or open
• The engine may run rough, hesitate, or stall depending on shorted or open OCV circuit

Examining the below mentioned components can be the most common solution to correct the OBD Code P0013 error;

• Use a scan tool to check and reset the fault codes and perform a road test to check if the OBD code occurs again
• Check the wiring to the exhaust camshaft oil control valve for bank 1 and change if necessary
• Check and replace the camshaft oil control valve for bank 1 exhaust camshaft
• Replacing the ECM or do reprogramming if faulty

Following are the steps involved in diagnosis of Error Code P0013.

• First step is the visual inspection of the sensor and its associated wiring and harness to check for any defaults. Damaged wiring or connectors are the main cause of the problem most of the time.
• Check for the camshaft and crankshaft sensors and circuits and their proper functioning.
• If the sensor reading the not as per the desired standards, then the sensor needs to be replaced immediately.
• The next step is to measure the resistance of the wiring from the ECM to the oxygen sensor plug, if the sensor is found good.
• If after all the checks, everything works well, then most probable problem can be with the Engine Control Module itself. The ECM usually activates and grounds the heater circuit. The main problems can be of the circuit; ECM contacts getting burnt which can cause a higher than normal resistance reading. This would definitely cause the P0013 code to set.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0013 Code

Follow these simple guidelines to prevent mistakes:

• Check to see if electrical connectors are connected properly
• Check engine oil to see if it is full, clean, and of the correct viscosity
• Test system to verify the code coming back before any further tests or repairs are done
• Follow the manufacturer pinpoint test procedures to prevent replacing good components or misdiagnosing the code
• Do not replace any sensors or components unless tests indicate a problem