AutoCodes – Ford – P0013 2017 Ford F150

P0013 2017 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 2017 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 366
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 2017 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 2017 Ford F150 - 'B' Camshaft Position Actuator 'A' Control Circuit/Open Bank 1 - AutoCodes.com
P0013 2017 Ford F150 Code - 'B' Camshaft Position Actuator 'A' Control Circuit/Open Bank 1

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0013 2017 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 2017 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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0013 2017 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.

Need more information about the P0013 2017 Ford F150 code?

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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 2017 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0013 on a 2017 Ford F150?

- Common symptoms include rough idling, engine stalling, decreased fuel efficiency, and the Check Engine light illuminating on the dashboard.

2. What does the OBDII code P0013 'B' Camshaft Position Actuator 'A' Control Circuit/Open Bank 1 mean for a 2017 Ford F150?

- This code indicates that there is an issue with the control circuit of the 'B' camshaft position actuator on Bank 1, which can affect engine performance.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0013 on a 2017 Ford F150?

- Potential causes include 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 2017 Ford F150?

- Diagnosis involves checking the camshaft position sensor, inspecting the wiring for any damages, ensuring proper engine oil levels, and performing a thorough inspection of the timing components.

5. Can I continue driving my 2017 Ford F150 with OBDII code P0013 present?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with this code as it can lead to further engine damage and potential safety hazards. Seek professional assistance for diagnosis and repairs.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0013 on a 2017 Ford F150?

- Repair steps may include replacing the faulty camshaft position actuator, repairing any damaged wiring, ensuring proper oil levels, and addressing any timing chain/belt issues as needed.

7. Is it safe to reset the Check Engine light after fixing OBDII code P0013 on a 2017 Ford F150?

- It is recommended to reset the Check Engine light using an OBDII scanner after repairs to ensure the issue has been successfully resolved and to monitor for any reoccurrence.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0013 on a 2017 Ford F150?

- Repair costs can vary depending on the exact cause of the code and labor rates in your area. It's advisable to consult a mechanic for a proper diagnosis and cost estimate.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0013 on a 2017 Ford F150?

- While some basic troubleshooting steps can be performed by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing this code often requires specialized tools and expertise. Professional help is recommended.

10. How often does OBDII code P0013 occur in a 2017 Ford F150?

- The occurrence of this code can vary depending on factors such as maintenance history, driving conditions, and overall vehicle health. If detected, it should be addressed promptly to prevent further issues.

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