AutoCodesLincoln – P0013 Lincoln

P0013 Lincoln 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 Lincoln 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 1,412
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 21, 2023
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Code P0013 Lincoln 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 Lincoln - 'B' Camshaft Position Actuator 'A' Control Circuit/Open Bank 1 - AutoCodes.com
P0013 Lincoln Code - 'B' Camshaft Position Actuator 'A' Control Circuit/Open Bank 1

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0013 Lincoln?

  • 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 Lincoln?

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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0013 Lincoln 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 Lincoln Code

What does OBDII code P0013 mean for a Lincoln vehicle?

Code P0013 indicates an issue with the camshaft position actuator circuit for Bank 1, specifically the 'B' camshaft. It usually points to an electrical problem or a malfunction in the actuator.

What are the common symptoms of code P0013 on a Lincoln?

Symptoms can include a check engine light, rough idling, poor fuel efficiency, reduced engine performance, or hesitation during acceleration.

What causes code P0013 in Lincoln vehicles?

Common causes include a faulty camshaft actuator solenoid, damaged wiring or connectors, oil flow issues, or low oil levels that affect actuator performance.

Can low oil levels trigger code P0013 on a Lincoln?

Yes, low oil levels or dirty oil can prevent the camshaft actuator from functioning properly, leading to this code.

How can I fix code P0013 on my Lincoln?

Start by checking the oil level and condition. If that’s fine, inspect the wiring and connectors to the actuator solenoid. Replace the solenoid if it’s faulty.

Is it safe to drive my Lincoln with code P0013?

While the car may still be drivable, prolonged use can lead to engine damage or decreased performance. It’s best to address the issue promptly.

What tools are needed to diagnose code P0013 on a Lincoln?

You’ll need an OBDII scanner to read the code, along with basic tools like a multimeter to check the solenoid’s electrical connections and functionality.

How much does it cost to repair code P0013 on a Lincoln?

Repair costs can vary, but replacing a camshaft actuator solenoid typically costs $100–$300, including parts and labor. Wiring repairs may add to the cost.

Can dirty oil cause code P0013 in Lincoln vehicles?

Yes, dirty oil can clog the actuator solenoid and disrupt oil flow, which can lead to this code being triggered.

How do I test the camshaft actuator solenoid for code P0013 on a Lincoln?

You can test the solenoid by using a multimeter to check for proper resistance and voltage. If readings are out of spec, the solenoid likely needs replacement.

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