DashClue
Log in

P0013: B Camshaft Position - Actuator Circuit

P0013 means the engine computer has found an electrical problem in the intake or exhaust camshaft actuator circuit for Bank 1, depending on the vehicle’s design. The most common fix is repairing wiring/connectors or replacing the camshaft actuator solenoid, typically costing about $150 to $450 at an independent shop.

Severity
Moderate
Can I drive?
Drive with caution
DIY?
Possible with some experience
Repair cost range
$50 – $1,500

Get the answer for your exact car

Add your car and a few details. DashClue asks up to 3 questions, then tells you the most likely cause and what it should cost.

FreeNo card neededAnswer in about 2 minutes

What does P0013 mean?

The camshaft actuator is part of the variable valve timing system. It uses engine oil pressure and an electrical solenoid to move cam timing so the engine can run better at idle, under load, and at higher RPM. P0013 sets when the computer sees a fault in that actuator’s circuit, such as an open, short, or poor electrical connection. On many cars, the actual issue is a damaged connector, broken wire, low oil level, or a failed actuator solenoid.

Common symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Rough idle
  • Hesitation when accelerating
  • Reduced power
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Hard starting in some cases

Causes, fixes and costs

DashClue diagnosis

P0013: B Camshaft Position - Actuator Circuit

General guide for most cars. Your car may differ.

Severity: ModerateDrive with caution

The car may still drive, but if the cam timing control fails it can run rough, lose power, or stall. Stop driving if the engine runs very rough, stalls repeatedly, or the check engine light starts flashing.

Most likely causes

  1. 1

    Failed camshaft actuator solenoidHigh

    A solenoid that is open, shorted, or sticking often causes the code along with rough idle, hesitation, or low power. If the code returns quickly after clearing, the solenoid is a top suspect.

    Quick check: Unplug the solenoid and check resistance and power/ground with a scan tool or multimeter; compare to service specs.

  2. 2

    Damaged wiring or connectorHigh

    Broken wires, oil-soaked connectors, corrosion, or loose pins commonly trigger an electrical circuit code with no other major engine symptoms. Look for intermittent warning lights or a code that comes and goes over bumps.

    Quick check: Inspect the harness and connector for oil, bent pins, green corrosion, rubbed-through insulation, or a loose fit.

  3. 3

    Low or dirty engine oilMedium

    Variable valve timing systems depend on clean oil pressure, and dirty oil can make the actuator behave erratically and set related driveability symptoms. This is more likely if the oil is overdue or the engine is noisy at startup.

    Quick check: Check the oil level and condition; if it is low, dirty, or the wrong viscosity, service it first.

  4. 4

    Faulty ECM driver or control issueLow

    If wiring and the solenoid test good, the engine computer may not be switching the circuit correctly. This is more likely after other electrical faults have already been ruled out.

    Quick check: Verify command and voltage at the connector with a scan tool and test light or scope before replacing the module.

Can you fix it yourself?

Possible with some experience

Difficulty: Moderate. Basic inspection and oil service are DIY-friendly, and some solenoids are easy to replace with hand tools. You will need the correct replacement solenoid, a scan tool, and ideally a multimeter if you want to test the circuit properly.

Show the steps
  1. Check the oil level and condition
  2. Inspect the cam actuator solenoid connector and wiring
  3. Clear the code and see if it returns
  4. Test solenoid resistance if you have a multimeter
  5. Replace the solenoid if it fails testing
  6. Repair any damaged wiring or connectors
  7. Change dirty oil and filter if needed
  8. Road test and rescan for pending codes

Estimated repair cost

$150 – $450

Camshaft actuator solenoid replacement: parts about $50-$180, labor about $100-$270

  • Wiring or connector repair$100 – $300
  • Oil and filter service$50 – $120
  • Camshaft actuator/phaser replacement$600 – $1,500
  • Engine computer diagnosis or replacement$200 – $1,200

Prices vary by engine layout, parts quality, and local labor rates.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive with code P0013?

Usually yes for a short time, but drive gently and get it checked soon. If the engine starts running rough, stalls, or the check engine light flashes, stop driving.

Is P0013 the same as a camshaft sensor code?

No. P0013 is an actuator circuit code, which points to the control circuit for cam timing, not the cam sensor itself.

Can low oil cause P0013?

Low or dirty oil can contribute to variable valve timing problems, and it is worth checking right away. Even if it is not the only cause, correcting the oil level and condition is a smart first step.

Will P0013 clear itself?

Sometimes it may go away temporarily if the fault is intermittent, but the problem usually comes back. If the code returns, the circuit needs to be tested instead of just cleared.

How much does it usually cost to fix P0013?

A simple solenoid or wiring repair often costs $150 to $450. More involved repairs can cost much more if the cam timing hardware or engine computer is involved.

Related codes

  • P0010 A Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit
  • P0011 A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced Or System Performance
  • P0012 A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded
  • P0014 B Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced Or System Performance
  • P0340 Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit (Bank 1)
  • P0341 Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance

Related problems

This guide covers most cars and is general advice, not an inspection. Prices are typical US independent-shop ranges and vary by region, car and shop. If your brakes, steering or a warning light feel unsafe, stop driving and contact a mechanic.