P0014 in Toyota Avalon is a generic OBD-II trouble code that indicates Camshaft Position “B” – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1), meaning the exhaust camshaft on the first cylinder is over-advancing.
Read on to find out more about P0014 in Toyota Avalon, what is causing it, and how to fix it.
P0014 trouble code in Toyota Avalon stands for Camshaft Position Sensor B Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1).
What Does The P0014 Code Mean In Toyota Avalon?
The P0014 trouble code on a Toyota Avalon is an internal generic code that indicates the camshaft position (CMP) timing is advanced in bank 1 (cylinder 1).
It may be seen alongside other related codes like P0011, P0012, and P0013.
Bank 1 refers to the region in the engine that contains the first cylinder, while position “B” refers to an exhaust camshaft which, depending on your vehicle model and make/model, may be located either at the rear or right side from a driver’s perspective.
The P0014 trouble code indicates that the camshaft has exceeded a threshold set by the Engine Control Module (ECM), either speeding up or slowing its rotation.
What Are The Possible Causes of The P0014 Code in Toyota Avalon?
The P0014 Toyota Avalon trouble code is caused by the vehicle’s computer detecting that the exhaust camshaft on bank 1 is over-advancing, or ahead of schedule.
As a result, a check engine light will illuminate to alert drivers and the ECU will store a P0014 code.
There are multiple causes that could result in the P0014 code being displayed on a Toyota Avalon vehicle:
Improper Camshaft Timing
Defective Camshaft Timing Control Solenoid
Failing Variable Camshaft Tuning (VVT) or Variable Valve Timing (VCT)
Oil lines of variable camshaft tuning (VCT) or variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid may become clogged with debris over time.
What Are The Common Symptoms of the P0014 Code In Toyota Avalon?
Early detection of the P0014 code in the Toyota Avalon is key to preventing further damage.
Here are the most common symptoms associated with the P0014 trouble code in Toyota Avalon:
The Check Engine Light illuminates, alerting you to an issue.
Starting Issue: Does your Toyota take a while to start? This could be due to camshaft issues. As you turn the key, listen for clicking sounds as the car starts and then stops; eventually, if not addressed, it may not start at all.
Stalling: Similar to starting problems, your vehicle may experience difficulty idling or randomly stall at lower speeds.
P0014 Code Causes Significant Decreasing Fuel Economy: The P0014 code may cause abrupt decreases in fuel economy, making it easier to detect.
Noise and Vibration from the Engine: A camshaft issue can lead to a rough ride due to an incorrect fuel-air mix. You may notice your vehicle shaking, emitting more exhaust smoke, or running louder than normal.
Vehicles will likely fail emissions tests due to engine emissions.
Is It Safe To Drive a Toyota Avalon With a P0014 Code?
No, it is never recommended to drive a Toyota Avalon with the P0014 trouble code without first diagnosing the issue.
Neglecting camshaft timing could potentially lead to complete engine failure – in which case replacing that engine would become both expensive and time-consuming.
People often become concerned when their vehicle either won’t start or seems unresponsive. The exact cause of the problem, however, depends on what caused the code in the first place.
Timing chains that fail can cause major engine damage. Neglecting to take your car in for repairs could result in additional harm and an expensive repair bill, so it’s best to get to a mechanic right away and have the problem diagnosed and addressed.
How To Diagnose The P0014 Code In a Toyota Avalon
Diagnosing a P0014 trouble code in Toyota Avalon can be daunting without the right expertise and insight.
Due to the intricate nature of some systems, it may be difficult to precisely time camshaft rotation without the correct tools and expertise.
Here is how you can quickly diagnose the P0014 trouble code in Toyota Avalon:
Connect an OBD2 scanner and look for any trouble codes that could be causing the P0014 code. If you find any related to either the crankshaft position sensor or the camshaft position sensor, it’s time to diagnose these to see if they can resolve your P0014 issue.
Check your engine oil level to make sure it is adequate. If low, add more or replace both oil and filter. Clear away any P0014 error codes and try again.
Examine your service manual and oil filler cap for signs of sludge inside the engine. If there are, your engine oil may be very old and clogging up its oil lines to the variable valve timing (VVT) or variable camshaft tuning (VCT) engine control valve. In such cases, it may be necessary to switch both types of oils and clean both components separately.
Test the variable valve timing (VVT) or variable camshaft tuning (VCT) valve solenoid using your diagnostic scanner. Perform an output test to see whether or not the VCT valve solenoid moves. If you have some car electrical knowledge, try experimenting with 12v+ power and ground.
If possible, remove the variable camshaft tuning (VCT) control valve solenoid and clean its oil passages using compressed air and an appropriate cleaning solution.
Confirm the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors are sending accurate signals.
Verify the engine camshaft timing by consulting your owner’s manual for instructions on how to do so in your engine. If the timing belt or chain is defective, disassemble it and inspect for damage.
Most Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0014 Code In Toyota Avalon
Misdiagnosing the P0014 code in Toyota Avalon often leads to incorrect conclusions that either the timing chain or belt is defective.
Replacing an appliance can be costly, and in many cases, the P0014 code could be indicative of another underlying issue; thus, conducting a comprehensive diagnosis before beginning repairs is key for accurate results.
P0114 in Toyota Avalon typically indicates an issue with the VVT or VCT system, which regulates camshaft timing. Other potential causes could include an errant camshaft position sensor or low oil levels.
How Much Does It Cost To Repair P0014 Code In Toyota Avalon
An exhaust camshaft position sensor for Toyota Avalon costs $19.99 while the labor of replacing costs $90.
The total cost of repairing the P0014 code in the Toyota Avalon costs $119.99.
What Repairs Can Fix The P0014 Code in Toyota Avalon?
Repairs that can fix the P0014 trouble code in Toyota Avalon include:
Engine oil should always be checked and changed when necessary, including the filter.
Cleaning oil lines associated with variable camshaft tuning (VCT) or variable valve timing (VVT) systems.
Clean or replace the variable camshaft tuning (VCT) or variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid.
Replacement of the timing belt or chain
Replace the camshaft timing control valve solenoid.
Adjust the Camshaft Position Sensor
Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
Repair any malfunctioning wiring
How To Fix The P0014 Code In Toyota Avalon
Here is how to fix the P0014 code in Toyota Avalon:
Clearing error codes and conducting a road test
By replacing your engine’s oil and filter with engine-specific viscosity oil, you can optimize performance and extend engine life.
Repair or replace the wiring to the bank 1 exhaust camshaft oil control valve.
Replacing the exhaust camshaft oil control valve on Bank 1.
Follow the service manual’s instructions when repairing or replacing the timing chain and camshaft-phasers.
In Conclusion
The Toyota Avalon P0014 code indicates a timing problem with its camshaft. This could be caused by incorrect camshaft timing and should be rectified promptly to avoid costly repair bills in the future.
Yet it can also be caused by something as minor as insufficient engine oil or a malfunctioning camshaft position sensor – both of which are typically repairable for less than $300.
If you are uncertain of your ability to resolve this problem yourself, contact a knowledgeable mechanic immediately for assistance.
I am a certified Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) mechanic since 2018. I specialize in Brake systems, dashboard warning lights, EGRs, general engine problems, EVAP and Emissions issues.
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