P0014 on Subaru: How to Diagnose & Fix
Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 1)
1 Subaru model · 1 documented issue · $50-$500 repair
P0014 on Subaru by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The FA20 engine in the BRZ consumes oil at elevated rates during high-RPM driving, spirited canyon runs, and track use. The engine design with direct injection and high compression (12.5:1) combined with the oil-fed variable valve timing system means oil consumption increases significantly when the engine is frequently operated above 5,000 RPM. Consumption rates of 1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles are reported by owners who drive aggressively. The narrow oil galleries in the FA20 make proper oil level maintenance critical.
Common Symptoms
- Oil level drops noticeably after spirited driving or track days
- Low oil pressure warning during hard cornering (oil starvation)
- Oil consumption of 1 qt per 1,000-2,000 miles with aggressive driving
- Blue smoke under hard acceleration
- Oil level normal during city/highway commuting but drops during performance driving
How to Fix
Check oil level before and after every spirited drive or track day. Carry an extra quart of 0W-20 (OEM spec) or 5W-30 (commonly used upgrade for track use). For track cars, install an oil catch can (Radium Engineering 20-0255-02 or Crawford Performance V3) to reduce oil vapor entering the intake. Consider an oil cooler for track use. Subaru considers up to 1 qt per 3,000 miles as acceptable.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Subaru SOA427V1310 synthetic 0W-20 engine oil, 1 quart
2013-2020 Subaru BRZ FA20 according to the live product listing; for 2021 or any modified/track-use engine, confirm the current owner manual and oil specification before purchase.
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Sources for this issue (1)
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 Subaru?
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 Subaru it is documented across 1 model: BRZ.
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 Subaru?
Published repair estimates on Subaru range from $50 to $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.
Looking for P0014 on a different make?
View P0014 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.