P1014: How to Diagnose & Fix — Manufacturer-Specific Powertrain Code (BMW/MINI: Valvetronic Eccentric-Shaft Sensor; Domestic: Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator)
3 vehicles · 2 makes · $200-$4,000 repair
How to diagnose and fix P1014: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
Fiat 500 · 2012–2019
The MultiAir electro-hydraulic valve actuation system can fail, causing rough idle, misfires, and check engine light with codes P0014 or P1014. This is a common failure on the 1.4L MultiAir engine, often occurring between 40,000 and 80,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
- Rough idle
- Engine misfire
- Check engine light
- Reduced power
- Ticking noise from engine
How to Fix
Replace the MultiAir actuator unit on top of the cylinder head. Use updated Mopar part number for revised design.
Sources for this issue (4)
BMW M3 · 2001–2006
The S54 double-VANOS system adjusts both intake and exhaust valve timing and is the most common failure on the E46 M3. Internal seals, oil pump disk, and bearing rings wear out between 80,000-120,000 miles, causing loss of power, rough idle, and VANOS rattle. BMW has discontinued some OEM parts, making rebuild kits from Beisan Systems the primary solution. Complete VANOS failure causes significant power loss and rough running. Forum consensus on Bimmerpost and NAM3Forum is that VANOS service is mandatory maintenance on any E46 M3.
Common Symptoms
- Loss of power, especially at low RPM
- VANOS rattle/ticking noise from front of engine
- Rough idle and hunting RPM
- Check engine light with VANOS-related fault codes
- Poor throttle response
- Reduced fuel economy
How to Fix
VANOS rebuild using Beisan Systems kits is the most cost-effective approach. For budget repair, start with seal kit (BS021, $60) and rattle elimination kit (BS022, $80). For comprehensive repair, add oil pump disk (BS025, $150+core) which saves ~$1,250 vs full replacement. Full rebuilt VANOS from Beisan (BS100, $1,990+core) or Mr Vanos (~$1,500 send-in service) for heavily worn units. Always replace VANOS gasket (BMW 11-36-7-831-938) during service. DIY is feasible with Beisan's detailed procedure guide (4-8 hours). Professional installation $500-$1,200.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Beisan S54 VANOS seal kit BS021Cross-refBS021
S54 VANOS seal-related leakage and timing-response repair. Fitment: 2001-2006 E46 M3 S54 when diagnosis identifies seal-related failure; not a rattle, sprocket-hub or solenoid repair by itself..
- Beisan S54 VANOS rattle kit BS022Cross-refBS022
Confirmed S54 VANOS mechanical rattle/bearing-play repair. Fitment: E46 M3 S54 only when mechanical play/rattle is confirmed; requires separately sold S54/S62 VANOS tools and the complete procedure's hardware/companion parts..
- Beisan S54 VANOS oil-pump disk BS025Cross-refBS025
S54 VANOS oil-pump-disk repair when inspection calls for it. Fitment: BMW S54; includes a $300 refundable core charge and requires return of the original unit within 90 days.
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Sources for this issue (1)
BMW 7 Series · 2013–2015
The N63 engine uses BMW's Valvetronic system (variable valve lift) which commonly fails. The Valvetronic eccentric shaft motor wears out or burns out, causing rough running and limp mode. The system also suffers from carbon buildup on the Valvetronic mechanism. Failure typically occurs between 60,000-100,000 miles. Symptoms include rough idle, reduced power, and check engine lights. Valvetronic was only added with the 2013 N63TU update, so 2009-2012 N63 engines do not have it. The N63 has two Valvetronic motors (one per cylinder bank).
Common Symptoms
- Rough idle or engine vibration
- Check engine light with Valvetronic codes (P1014, P1017)
- Limp mode activation (reduced power)
- Poor throttle response
- Increased fuel consumption
- Rattling noise from valve cover area
How to Fix
Replace Valvetronic eccentric shaft motor(s). Often both motors need replacement since wear is similar. Clean carbon buildup from Valvetronic mechanism during repair. Labor is 6-10 hours. Some shops recommend replacing Valvetronic motors preventively at 80,000 miles to avoid being stranded. Extended warranty highly recommended for N63-powered 7 Series.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine BMW Valvetronic actuator/servo motor 11377605025Cross-ref11377605025
Confirmed N63TU Valvetronic actuator replacement. Confirm VIN, fault diagnosis, shaft condition and associated seals/hardware before ordering..
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (2)
Find P1014 by make
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P1014 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 P1014 mean?
P1014 stands for "Manufacturer-Specific Powertrain Code (BMW/MINI: Valvetronic Eccentric-Shaft Sensor; Domestic: Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator)." P1014 is a manufacturer-specific powertrain code whose meaning varies by maker. On BMW and MINI it typically points to a problem with the Valvetronic eccentric-shaft position sensor or its reference position. On many domestic vehicles it relates to the exhaust camshaft position actuator (variable valve timing) being out of the expected range, and some makes such as Dodge use it for an emission solenoid circuit. Because the definition differs by brand, it should be confirmed against the specific vehicle's service data.
What are the most common causes of P1014?
The most common causes of P1014 are: Faulty eccentric-shaft / camshaft position sensor (BMW/MINI), Failing exhaust camshaft (VVT) actuator/solenoid (domestic), Low or dirty engine oil affecting VVT phaser, Wiring or connector corrosion at the sensor/actuator, Carbon buildup or mechanical binding in the variable valve system, Timing chain stretch / cam-to-crank correlation issue, ECM software or calibration fault. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P1014?
Repair costs for P1014 range from $200 to $4,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P1014?
Au7o has documented P1014 across 3 vehicle models from 2 manufacturers: BMW, Fiat.
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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.