P0014 on Mazda: How to Diagnose & Fix
"B" (Exhaust) Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)
2 Mazda models · 2 documented issues · 2 critical · $400-$3,500 repair
P0014 on Mazda by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Ford-derived V6 in first-generation CX-9 (3.5L in 2007, 3.7L Duratec from 2008) 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, it can lead to jumped timing and severe engine damage.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling noise on cold start from timing chain area
- Check engine light with P0016, P0017, or P0018 cam/crank correlation codes
- Rough idle and intermittent stalling
- Engine performance noticeably degraded at higher mileage
How to Fix
Replace timing chain, guides, tensioners, and cam phasers as a complete kit. This is a labor-intensive job requiring partial engine disassembly. Recommended to replace water pump and thermostat while engine is apart.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Melling 3-1047S professional timing setOEMMelling 3-1047S
Early V6 timing-set branch for 2007 3.5L, 2008-2010 3.7L and qualifying 2011 vehicles produced through December 14, 2010 Fitment/availability: Direct indexed product page identifies Melling 3-1047S for 2007-2011 CX-9, with 2007 3.5L, 200…
- Melling 3-1049SC professional timing setOEMMelling 3-1049SC
Late V6 timing-set branch for qualifying 2011 vehicles produced after December 14, 2010 through 2015 3.7L Fitment/availability: Direct indexed product page identifies Melling 3-1049SC for late-2011 through 2015 CX-9 3.7L, explicitly from…
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Owner tips & cautions
- TipUse full synthetic 5W-20 oil and change every 5,000 miles to prolong chain life
- TipReplace water pump and thermostat during timing chain job - saves labor cost. CX9Club.com timing chain thread
Sources for this issue (3)
The intake-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.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling noise on cold start
- Check engine light with P0011 or P0012 cam timing codes
- Rough idle and stalling at stop lights
- Reduced power and poor fuel economy
How to Fix
Replace VVT actuator/cam phaser assembly and VVT solenoid. Use Mazda-spec 0W-20 full synthetic oil and replace at 5,000-mile intervals to prevent sludge. Check timing chain stretch while servicing.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Mazda genuine electric intake VVT actuator PE01-12-4X0BOEMMazda PE01-12-4X0B
Electric intake VVT actuator after the bulletin PID test confirms actuator failure Fitment/availability: The inspected direct page identifies genuine Mazda PE01-12-4X0B as the actuator and lists 2014-2017 Mazda6 2.5L applications.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipUse full synthetic 0W-20 (Mazda spec) and change oil every 5,000 miles max - Mazda6Club.com VVT thread
- TipInspect timing chain stretch when replacing VVT - may need chain replacement at high mileage
Sources for this issue (2)
P0014 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0014 mean on a Mazda?
P0014 stands for ""B" (Exhaust) Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (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 it is documented across 2 models: CX-9, Mazda6.
What are the most common causes of P0014?
The most common causes of P0014 are: 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. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0014 on a Mazda?
Published repair estimates on Mazda range from $400 to $3,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.