AutoCodes – Ford – P0013 2020 Ford F150

P0013 2020 Ford F150 Code - 'B' Camshaft Position Actuator 'A' Control Circuit/Open Bank 1

Quick Answer

The Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) solenoid valve is an integral part of the VCT system. Common causes include Low or Dirty Engine Oil, Incorrect camshaft timing, Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Bank 1 Solenoid 2 (VCT12). Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0013 2020 Ford F150 indicates 'B' Camshaft Position Actuator 'A' Control Circuit/Open Bank 1.
Common causes: Common causes include Low or Dirty Engine Oil, Incorrect camshaft timing, Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Bank 1 Solenoid 2 (VCT12).
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 644

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 21, 2023

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0013 2020 Ford F150 Description

The Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) solenoid valve is an integral part of the VCT system. The solenoid valve controls the flow of engine oil in the VCT actuator assembly. As the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls the duty cycle of the solenoid valve, oil pressure/flow advances or retards the cam timing. Duty cycles near 0% or 100% represent the rapid movement of the camshaft. Retaining a fixed camshaft position is accomplished by dithering (oscillating) the solenoid valve duty cycle.
The PCM calculates and determines the desired camshaft position. It continually updates the VCT solenoid duty cycle until the desired position is achieved. A difference between the desired and actual camshaft position represents a position error in the PCM VCT control loop. The PCM disables the VCT and places the camshaft in a default position if a concern is detected. A related Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) also sets when the concern is detected.
When the VCT solenoid is energized, engine oil is allowed to flow to the VCT actuator assembly which advances or retards the camshaft timing. One half of the VCT actuator is coupled to the camshaft and the other half is connected to the timing chain. Oil chambers between the 2 halves couple the camshaft to the timing chain. When the flow of oil is shifted from one side of the chamber to the other, the differential change in oil pressure forces the camshaft to rotate in either an advance or retard position depending on the oil flow.
This DTC sets when a low or high voltage on the VCT12 circuit is detected. This DTC sets if the voltage exceeds a calibrated limit for a calibrated amount of time.

OBDII Code P0013 2020 Ford F150 - 'B' Camshaft Position Actuator 'A' Control Circuit/Open Bank 1 - AutoCodes.com — P0013 2020 Ford F150 Code - 'B' Camshaft Position Actuator 'A' Control Circuit/Open Bank 1

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0013 2020 Ford F150?

Low or Dirty Engine Oil
Incorrect camshaft timing
Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Bank 1 Solenoid 2 (VCT12)
Variable Camshaft Timing Bank 1 Solenoid 2 circuit is open or shorted
Variable Camshaft Timing Bank 1 Solenoid 2 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0013 2020 Ford F150?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) may be accompanied by other DTCs. Diagnose all Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor DTCs first. If no CMP sensor related DTCs are present, continue checking the Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Solenoid.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0013 2020 Ford F150 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0013 2020 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0013 on a 2020 Ford F150?

- Common symptoms include rough idling, engine misfires, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential stalling of the vehicle.

2. What does the OBDII code P0013 indicate in a 2020 Ford F150?

- The code indicates an issue with the 'B' Camshaft Position Actuator 'A' Control Circuit/Open Bank 1, meaning there is a malfunction in the control circuit of the camshaft position actuator.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0013 on a 2020 Ford F150?

- The code can be triggered by a faulty camshaft position actuator, wiring issues in the control circuit, low engine oil levels, or a timing chain/belt problem.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0013 on my 2020 Ford F150?

- Diagnosing the code involves checking the camshaft position actuator, inspecting the wiring for damage, verifying engine oil levels, and examining the timing chain/belt for any issues.

5. Can I continue driving my 2020 Ford F150 with OBDII code P0013?

- It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with this code as it can lead to further engine damage and potential safety issues. It is best to address the problem promptly.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0013 on my 2020 Ford F150?

- Repairs may involve replacing the camshaft position actuator, repairing any damaged wiring, ensuring proper engine oil levels, and addressing any timing chain/belt problems as needed.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code P0013 on my 2020 Ford F150 make it go away permanently?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but if the underlying issue causing the code is not addressed, it is likely to reappear. Proper diagnosis and repair are necessary for a permanent solution.

8. Are there any DIY tips for fixing OBDII code P0013 on a 2020 Ford F150?

- While some basic checks like inspecting wiring connections can be done DIY, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for a thorough diagnosis and repair to ensure the issue is properly resolved.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0013 on a 2020 Ford F150?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the code and labor rates in your area. It is advisable to get quotes from different mechanics to compare prices.

10. Can OBDII code P0013 on a 2020 Ford F150 cause long-term damage if left untreated?

- Yes, leaving the code untreated can potentially lead to more severe engine damage over time, affecting performance and reliability. It is important to address the issue promptly to prevent further complications.