P0014 on Mazda
Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 1)
P0014 on Mazda vehicles indicates exhaust camshaft position timing - over-advanced (bank 1). Au7o has documented this code across 4 Mazda models — most commonly on CX-7, CX-9, Mazda6. 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 Mazda range from $400 to $3,500, 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 Mazda by Model
Mazda CX-7(1 issue)
- 2.3L Turbo VVT Actuator and Turbocharger Failure2007-2012
The CX-7's 2.3L DISI turbocharged engine (shared with the Mazdaspeed3) suffers from VVT actuator failure and premature turbocharger wear. Carbon buildup on the direct-injection intake valves compounds the issue. Extended oil change intervals accelerate turbo bearing wear.
Mazda CX-9(2 issues)
- Timing Chain Stretch on 3.7L V62007-2015
The Ford-derived 3.7L Duratec V6 in first-generation CX-9 suffers from timing chain stretch, typically between 80,000-120,000 miles. Chain guides and tensioners wear, causing timing to retard and triggering check engine codes. If not addressed, can lead to jumped timing and severe engine damage.
- Timing Chain Stretch and Rattle (2.5L Turbo SkyActiv)2016-2025
The second-generation CX-9 with the 2.5L turbocharged SkyActiv-G engine can develop timing chain stretch, producing a rattle or whine at startup that may persist for several seconds. Unlike the first-gen 3.7L V6 issue, the 2.5T chain stretch is typically less severe but still requires attention. The issue is linked to extended oil change intervals and use of non-synthetic oil allowing chain guide and tensioner wear.
Mazda Mazda6(1 issue)
- Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator Failure2009-2021
The exhaust-side VVT actuator (cam phaser) fails due to oil sludge and wear, causing timing codes and engine rattle. The actuator solenoid can also stick, leading to incorrect valve timing. Oil change neglect accelerates failure. Common on both MZR and early SkyActiv 2.5L engines.
Mazda Mazdaspeed3(1 issue)
- VVT Actuator Failure and Timing Chain Stretch2007-2013
The 2.3L DISI turbo engine's Variable Valve Timing (VVT) actuator has a known design weakness where an internal pin can come loose, causing the timing chain to slack. This leads to timing chain rattle, oil leaks, excessive exhaust smoke, and potentially catastrophic engine failure if the chain jumps timing. Mazda issued a Special Service Program (SSP) extending warranty coverage for VVT noise and timing chain issues on 2007-2010 models with the L3T engine. Mazda also released a revised VVT actuator design to address the failure.
Looking for P0014 on a different make?
View P0014 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0014 mean on Mazda?▼
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 Mazda specifically, this code is documented across 4 models.
What causes P0014 on Mazda vehicles?▼
Common causes on Mazda: 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 Mazda?▼
Repair costs on Mazda range from $400 to $3,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Mazda models have P0014 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0014 on 4 Mazda models: CX-7, CX-9, Mazda6, Mazdaspeed3.