P0013: B Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1

What it means

Electrical fault in the bank 1 exhaust camshaft position actuator solenoid. Same diagnostic principle as P0010 but on the exhaust cam.

At a glance

• Usually lights the check-engine light
• Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test

How it works

The bank 1 exhaust camshaft actuator solenoid, often called the oil control valve, directs oil to adjust exhaust valve timing. The control module monitors the solenoid's electrical circuit and sets P0013 when it detects an open circuit or an electrical response outside the expected range. This identifies the exhaust actuator circuit on bank 1, distinct from the bank 1 intake actuator circuit.

Common causes

Most likely first.

1. Oil control valve electrically failed
2. Wiring or connector fault

Symptoms

• Check engine light on
• Power loss especially in mid-rpm range
• Possible rough idle or stalling
• Increased fuel consumption

How to diagnose it

1. Save freeze-frame data and determine whether P0013 is current or intermittent, including the engine conditions when it set.
2. Locate the bank 1 exhaust actuator using vehicle service information and inspect its connector and harness for damage, corrosion, oil, or chafing.
3. Check the exhaust actuator circuit for power, ground, continuity, and shorts using the wiring diagram and manufacturer's specifications.
4. Test the bank 1 exhaust actuator electrically and use a scan tool to command it if the vehicle supports that function.
5. If the actuator and wiring pass, investigate the control-module output and confirm the repair by monitoring for the code to return.

Common fixes

• Clean and secure the bank 1 exhaust actuator connector.
• Repair damaged or open wiring in the exhaust actuator circuit.
• Replace the bank 1 exhaust camshaft actuator solenoid if it fails testing.
• Repair a confirmed control-module circuit fault.

Can I keep driving?

Gentle, short-distance driving is usually possible if the engine runs smoothly, though power or fuel economy may be reduced. Avoid hard acceleration and stop if the engine stalls or runs too roughly to drive safely.