P000B: Exhaust camshaft slow to respond to the computer (bank 1)

Most likely causes

What to test first

Start at step 1. Each result tells you what it means and where to go next.

1. 1

   Step 1: Check the oil level and condition with the engine off and level, and note when the oil was last changed and which grade is in it.

   Low risk

   • IfThe oil is low, very dirty, overdue or the wrong grade

     It meansCorrect the oil first, then clear the code and see whether it returns.

     Points to: Low, old or wrong-grade engine oil

   • IfThe oil level and grade are right

     It meansLook at the cam timing parts next.

     Go to step 2

2. 2

   Step 2: With a scan tool, compare the commanded and actual exhaust cam angle on bank 1, and check for stored cam or crank sensor codes.

   Low risk

   • IfThe actual angle lags the command, or other cam timing codes are stored

     It meansThe solenoid, phaser or oil feed is suspect.

     Go to step 3

   • IfCam and crank signals disagree or are erratic

     It meansTest the cam sensor and the timing chain.

     Points to: Cam position sensor fault, or a stretched timing chain

   • IfEverything tracks but the code returns on a Dodge Dart or similar

     It meansAsk a dealer about a software update.

     Points to: Engine computer software that needs an update (some models)

3. 3

   Step 3: Have the cam timing solenoid and its screen removed and inspected for debris, and the oil feed checked.

   Best left to a shopTool: scan tool, basic hand tools

   Warning:The solenoid is on the engine and the oil system is involved. Let a shop do it unless you are experienced.

   • IfThe solenoid or screen is clogged, or the solenoid sticks

     It meansClean or replace it, change the oil, then retest.

     Points to: Sticking or restricted cam timing solenoid

   • IfThe solenoid is clean and moves freely

     It meansThe phaser or timing chain may be worn; a shop should check further.

     Points to: Cam position sensor fault, or a stretched timing chain

Symptoms

• Check engine light on
• Rough idle or rough acceleration
• Increased engine noise
• Stalling, or oil pressure warning light Gets more serious: stop and have it checked.

Compare with: Rough idle with the check engine light on

How to fix

1. 1

   Step 1: With the engine off and level, check the oil level and top it up with the grade in your owner manual.

2. 2

   Step 2: If the oil is overdue, change it and the filter, then ask a shop to clear the code and see whether it returns.

3. 3

   Step 3: Ask a dealer whether your VIN has an open engine computer update for P000B.

On your vehicle

Related codes

• P0011Intake camshaft timing ahead of target or slow to respond (bank 1)

  Same system Supported by vehicle data

  Subaru groups P000B with P0011 and P0014 as cam timing codes in one diagnosis bulletin.

• P0014Exhaust camshaft timing ahead of target or slow to respond (bank 1)

  Same system Supported by vehicle data

  P0014 is the exhaust cam timing over-advanced code on the same bank. FCA names P0016 and P000B together in one VVT note.

• P0016Crankshaft and intake camshaft positions do not agree (bank 1, sensor A)

  Shares causes Supported by vehicle data

  FCA asks dealers to call engineering when P0016 or P000B appears and points to a VVT solenoid or phaser on the 6.4L.

All Variable valve timing (VVT) codes