P0015

B Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1

Variable valve timing Generic OBD-II High

What it means

P0015 means the Bank 1 "B" (typically exhaust) camshaft is timed further retarded than the computer commanded — the variable valve timing isn't reaching its target. It's usually caused by a stuck oil control valve or a worn phaser, often traced back to low or dirty engine oil. The engine may idle rough and lose some power.

High

Can I keep driving? Usually driveable short-term — expect rough idle and some power loss; fix it soon, as the underlying oil or VVT issue tends to worsen.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

306

scans in the past year

Found in

0.1%

of scans

0.1%

of scans that found faults

Appears alongside · share of P0015 scans

P0014in 28.4% of scans

P0017in 27.8% of scans

P0012in 24.2% of scans

Figures reflect only diagnostic scans recorded through our own apps and tools. Cars are typically scanned because a symptom or warning light prompted it, so these counts describe our scan records — not the incidence of faults in any model, and not the quality, reliability, or safety of any vehicle. No comparison between manufacturers or models is implied. All trademarks belong to their respective owners; no affiliation or endorsement is implied.

Common symptoms

What you'll notice

Check-engine light on
Rough idle
Reduced power and hesitation on acceleration
Increased fuel consumption
Possible rattle from the timing area

Common causes

Most likely first

Stuck or clogged camshaft oil control valve (VVT solenoid), often from dirty or low oilLikely
Dirty or low engine oil restricting the phaserCommon
Worn or faulty camshaft actuator/phaserCommon
Stretched timing chainLess often
Camshaft position sensor or wiring faultLess often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Check engine oil level and condition first; change the oil and filter if overdue.
Remove, clean, and test the camshaft oil control valve and its filter screen.
Inspect the wiring and connector to the VVT solenoid.
Check the timing chain for stretch.
Replace the phaser/actuator if the valve and oil are good; clear the code and re-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0015?+

Usually yes for short trips — it typically causes rough idle and mild power loss rather than a breakdown. But fix it promptly, since the same conditions (dirty oil, a worn phaser) get worse over time.

Can I just clear P0015?+

You can clear it, but it comes back until the VVT fault is fixed. Start with fresh oil and a clean oil control valve.

Read & clear P0015 yourself

Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.

▶ Get it on Google Play

✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX