P0014 on Audi
Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 1)
P0014 on Audi vehicles indicates exhaust camshaft position timing - over-advanced (bank 1). Au7o has documented this code across 3 Audi models — most commonly on A5, A6, Q3. P0014 means the exhaust camshaft on bank 1 is timed too far advanced — the variable valve timing (VVT) system has moved the cam beyond the position the computer commanded, or it's stuck in an over-advanced position. The engine uses VVT to rotate the camshaft and optimize valve timing for power, economy, and emissions; the computer compares the commanded cam position to the actual reading from the cam sensor and flags this code when they don't agree. Common results are rough idle, reduced power, poor fuel economy, or a rattle at start-up. Oil flow and the VVT actuator are the usual suspects. Typical repair costs on Audi range from $2,000 to $12,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0014
- •Low or dirty engine oil restricting VVT operation
- •Stuck or failed camshaft oil control valve (VVT solenoid)
- •Clogged VVT solenoid screen or oil passages
- •Faulty camshaft phaser/actuator
- •Wiring or connector fault at the oil control valve
- •Stretched timing chain or jumped timing
- •Camshaft position sensor fault giving incorrect reading
P0014 on Audi by Model
Audi A5(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (2.0 TFSI Engine)2008-2016
The B8/B8.5 A5 with the 2.0 TFSI engine (2008-2016) suffers from premature timing chain tensioner failure, identical to the A4 and A6. The tensioners wear out between 60,000-120,000 miles, causing the timing chain to stretch and rattle. A loud rattling noise on cold start from the front of the engine is the classic warning sign. If ignored, the timing chain can jump timing or break, causing catastrophic valve-to-piston contact and destroying the engine. Early B8 models (2008-2012) are more prone to failure than later B8.5 models (2013-2016). A5OC forum members report many failures under 100,000 miles, with some owners experiencing complete engine destruction. The repair requires removing the front of the engine and costs $2,000-$5,000. Some owners report oil consumption issues leading to accelerated tensioner wear.
Audi A6(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (3.2L V6 & 4.2L V8)2005-2011
The C6 A6 with the 3.2L V6 and 4.2L V8 engines suffers from timing chain tensioner failures due to wear over time. Audi designates the chains and tensioners as "lifetime" parts requiring no maintenance, but they fail as early as 80,000-120,000 miles. The 3.2L engine has 4 chains, 3 tensioners, and several guides—all prone to wear. A loud rattling or clicking noise on cold start from the upper rear of the engine is the classic symptom of failing tensioners. If ignored, the timing chain can jump or break, causing catastrophic valve-to-piston contact and complete engine destruction. The transmission must be removed for full access, making this a labor-intensive repair. AudiWorld forums report low-mileage cars with stretched chains due to the design flaw.
Audi Q3(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (2.0 TFSI Engine)2015-2020
The first-generation Q3 (2015-2018) and early second-generation (2019-2020) models with the 2.0 TFSI EA888 engine suffer from premature timing chain tensioner failure, identical to other Audi models (A4, A5, Q5). The tensioners wear out between 60,000-120,000 miles, causing the timing chain to stretch and rattle on cold starts. If ignored, the chain can slip or jump timing, causing catastrophic valve-to-piston contact and destroying the engine. Rattling noise from the front of the engine on cold start is the classic warning sign. Later 2021+ models have updated tensioners and are less prone to failure. AudiWorld and Q3 forums report failures under 100,000 miles, with some owners experiencing complete engine destruction requiring $6,000-$10,000 replacement.
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View P0014 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0014 mean on Audi?▼
P0014 stands for "Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 1)." P0014 means the exhaust camshaft on bank 1 is timed too far advanced — the variable valve timing (VVT) system has moved the cam beyond the position the computer commanded, or it's stuck in an over-advanced position. The engine uses VVT to rotate the camshaft and optimize valve timing for power, economy, and emissions; the computer compares the commanded cam position to the actual reading from the cam sensor and flags this code when they don't agree. Common results are rough idle, reduced power, poor fuel economy, or a rattle at start-up. Oil flow and the VVT actuator are the usual suspects. On Audi specifically, this code is documented across 3 models.
What causes P0014 on Audi vehicles?▼
Common causes on Audi: Low or dirty engine oil restricting VVT operation, Stuck or failed camshaft oil control valve (VVT solenoid), Clogged VVT solenoid screen or oil passages, Faulty camshaft phaser/actuator, Wiring or connector fault at the oil control valve. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0014 on a Audi?▼
Repair costs on Audi range from $2,000 to $12,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Audi models have P0014 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0014 on 3 Audi models: A5, A6, Q3.