P0015 “B” Camshaft Position -Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 1)

Home » OBD Codes » P0000-P0099 » P0015 “B” Camshaft Position -Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 1)

P0015 “B” Camshaft Position -Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 1)

OBD-II DTC Trouble Code Description

“B” Camshaft Position – Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 1)

What does that mean?

This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, which means that it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles, including but not limited to Toyota, VW, Honda, Ford, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Audi, Acura, etc.

A code P0015 refers to the VVT (variable valve timing) or VCT (variable camshaft timing) components and the car’s PCM (powertrain control module, also called an ECM).

That consists of a few different components but the P0015 DTC specifically refers to the camshaft (cam) timing. In this case, if the cam timing is over-retarded, the engine light will be illluminated and the code will be set. Bank #1 is the side of the engine that contains cylinder #1. The "B" camshaft shall be either the "exhaust," "right," or "rear" camshaft. Left/Right and Front/Rear are determined as if viewed from the driver’s seating position.

Potential Symptoms

Most likely a P0015 DTC will result in one of the following:

  • hard starting
  • poor idle and/or
  • stalling
  • There are potentially other symptoms as well. Of course, when trouble codes are set, the MIL (malfunction indicator lamp, a.k.a. the check engine light) illuminates.

    Causes

    A P0015 DTC trouble code may be caused by one or more of the following:

  • Incorrect camshaft timing
  • Wiring problems (harness/wiring) in intake timing control valve control solenoid system
  • Continuous oil flow to VCT piston chamber
  • Failed timing valve control solenoid (stuck open)
  • Possible Solutions

    The main thing to check is to verify the operation of the VCT solenoid. You’re looking for a sticking or stuck VCt solenoid valve caused by contamination. Refer to vehicle specific repair manual to perform component tests for the VCT unit. Notes: Dealer techs have advanced tools and the ability to follow detailed troubleshooting steps, including the ability to test components using a scan tool.

    Other related DTCs: P0010 – P0011 – P0012 – P0014 – P0020 – P0021 – P0022

    Need help?

    Let us fix your problem. You are most welcome our diagnosis experts have in most cases the knowledge and skills to find the cause of the error code p0015 and to solve the problems.

    Make an appointment for diagnosis

    "Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p0015 in the ECU"

    In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p0015 and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.

    Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p0015.

    Make an appointment for permanent removal of p0015