AutoCodes – Mercury – P1383 Mercury

P1383 Mercury Code - Variable Cam Timing Over Retarded Bank 1

Quick Answer

The variable camshaft timing solenoid effects the inlet camshaft timing only. Common causes include Cam timing improperly set, Continuous oil flow to the VCT piston chamber, VCT solenoid valve stuck open. 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: P1383 Mercury indicates Variable Cam Timing Over Retarded Bank 1.
Common causes: Common causes include Cam timing improperly set, Continuous oil flow to the VCT piston chamber, VCT solenoid valve stuck open.
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 11,644

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 17, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1383 Mercury Description

The variable camshaft timing solenoid effects the inlet camshaft timing only. The actuator is a helical spline type, which is engine oil driven. It provides 50 degrees of rotation for camshaft adjustment under different types of engine torque and load conditions.
The comprehensive component monitor (CCM) monitors the VCT position for over-retarded camshaft timing. The test fails when the camshaft timing exceeds a maximum calibrated value or remains in a retarded position.

OBDII Code P1383 Mercury - Variable Cam Timing Over Retarded Bank 1 - AutoCodes.com — P1383 Mercury Code - Variable Cam Timing Over Retarded Bank 1

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1383 Mercury?

Cam timing improperly set
Continuous oil flow to the VCT piston chamber
VCT solenoid valve stuck open
Camshaft advance mechanism binding (VCT unit).

How to Fix the DTC P1383 Mercury?

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

User Submitted Video

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1383 Mercury 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.