All Powertrain Engine DTC Codes — Complete OBD-II Diagnostic Guide (2026)
This comprehensive reference covers every Powertrain Engine diagnostic trouble code (DTC) — 13 codes total. Each code includes what triggers it, common symptoms, step-by-step diagnostic procedures, and repair guidance.
Detailed DTC Code Guides
P0010: The P0010 code indicates a problem with the intake camshaft position actuator circuit on bank 1. This actuator helps adjust the camshaft's timing to optimize engine performance. A fault in this circuit can cause engine performance issues and potentially lead to engine damage.
Learn to diagnose and fix OBD-II code P0010, related to the intake camshaft position actuator circuit on bank 1. Understand causes, symptoms, and repair...
- Check for Obvious Issues
- Scan for Additional Codes
- Check Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid
- ...see all 5 steps →
P0011: The P0011 code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected that the intake camshaft position timing is over-advanced on bank 1. This can cause engine performance issues and potentially lead to engine damage if not addressed. The ECM uses a variety of sensors to monitor engine performance and adjust timing accordingly.
Learn to diagnose and fix the P0011 OBD-II code, which indicates intake camshaft position timing over-advanced on bank 1. Get cost estimates, DIY steps, and...
- Check for Obvious Issues
- Scan for Additional Codes
- Check Camshaft Position Sensor
- ...see all 5 steps →
P0012: The P0012 code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected that the intake camshaft position timing is over-retarded on Bank 1. This means the camshaft is not rotating at the correct time, which can cause engine performance issues. The ECM uses a variety of sensors to monitor the camshaft and crankshaft position, and if the timing is off, it sets this code.
Fix OBD-II code P0012 with our step-by-step guide. Learn causes, symptoms & cost estimates for Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 1). Get...
- Check for Obvious Issues
- Scan for Additional Codes
- Check Camshaft Position Sensor
- ...see all 6 steps →
P0013: The P0013 code indicates a problem with the exhaust camshaft position actuator circuit in bank 1. This code is triggered when the engine control module (ECM) detects an open or short circuit in the actuator circuit. The camshaft position actuator plays a crucial role in adjusting the camshaft timing, which affects engine performance and efficiency.
Fix OBD-II code P0013 with our step-by-step guide. Covers b camshaft position actuator circuit bank 1. Free DIY repair guide with tools, parts & cost estimates.
- Check for obvious issues
- Scan for additional codes
- Check camshaft position actuator solenoid valve
- ...see all 5 steps →
P0014: The P0014 code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected that the exhaust camshaft position timing is over-advanced on bank 1. This means the camshaft is rotating too far beyond its optimal position, causing the valves to open and close at the wrong time. The ECM uses a variety of sensors, including the camshaft position sensor and the crankshaft position sensor, to monitor the engine's timing and make adjustments as needed.
Learn to diagnose and fix OBD-II code P0014, indicating exhaust camshaft position timing over-advanced on bank 1. Get cost estimates, DIY steps, and common...
- Check for Obvious Issues
- Scan for Additional Codes
- Check Camshaft Position Sensor
- ...see all 4 steps →
P0016: The P0016 code indicates a timing issue between the crankshaft and camshaft positions in Bank 1. This correlation problem can cause engine performance issues and potentially lead to engine damage if not addressed.
Learn to diagnose and fix OBD-II code P0016, Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A). Get cost estimates, DIY steps & common vehicles...
- Check for obvious issues
- Scan for trouble codes
- Check crankshaft and camshaft position sensors
- ...see all 5 steps →
P0017: The P0017 code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a correlation issue between the crankshaft and camshaft positions in Bank 1, Sensor B. This can cause engine performance problems, reduced fuel efficiency, and potentially lead to engine damage if left unchecked. The ECM uses sensors to monitor the crankshaft and camshaft positions, and when the signals don't match, it triggers this code.
Learn to diagnose and fix OBD-II code P0017, which indicates a correlation issue between the crankshaft and camshaft positions in Bank 1, Sensor B. Get cost...
- Check for Obvious Issues
- Monitor Live Data PIDs
- Check Sensor Resistance
- ...see all 5 steps →
P0021: The P0021 code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected that the intake camshaft position timing on bank 2 is over-advanced. This means the camshaft is rotating too far ahead of its normal position, which can cause engine performance issues. The ECM uses a variety of sensors to monitor the camshaft and crankshaft positions, and if it detects a timing error, it will set this code.
Learn to diagnose and fix OBD-II code P0021, which indicates intake camshaft position timing over-advanced on bank 2. Get cost estimates, DIY steps, and...
- Verify Engine Oil Level and Condition
- Scan for Additional Codes
- Inspect Camshaft Position Sensor
- ...see all 5 steps →
P1259: The P1259 code indicates a malfunction in the Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system. This system optimizes engine performance at different RPM ranges. A problem here can lead to reduced engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Learn to diagnose and fix OBD-II code P1259, indicating a VTEC system malfunction. Get step-by-step instructions, cost estimates, and common vehicle makes...
- Check for Obvious Issues
- Scan for Additional Codes
- Check VTEC Solenoid Resistance
- ...see all 5 steps →
P1326: The P1326 code indicates that the engine control module has detected a problem with the connecting rod bearing using the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). This system monitors engine vibrations to detect potential issues. A faulty connecting rod bearing can cause engine damage if not addressed.
Learn to diagnose and fix OBD-II code P1326, which indicates a problem with the connecting rod bearing detected by the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS)....
- Preliminary Checks
- Scan for Additional Codes
- Check Engine Oil Level and Condition
- ...see all 6 steps →
P1349: The P1349 code signals a problem with the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system on Bank 1 of your engine. This system adjusts valve timing for optimal performance, efficiency, and emissions. A malfunction can cause decreased power, fuel efficiency, and increased emissions.
Learn to diagnose and fix OBD-II code P1349, indicating a Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system malfunction on Bank 1. Get cost estimates, DIY steps, and...
- Verify Engine Oil Level and Quality
- Inspect VVT Solenoids and Oil Control Valves
- Check Electrical Circuitry and Connections
- ...see all 4 steps →
SYMPTOM-OVERHEATING: The SYMPTOM-OVERHEATING code indicates that your vehicle's engine is overheating. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including low coolant levels, a faulty thermostat, or a malfunctioning cooling fan. If left unchecked, engine overheating can lead to costly repairs or even engine failure.
Fix OBD-II code SYMPTOM-OVERHEATING with our step-by-step guide. Learn car overheating causes, symptoms & DIY fixes. Get cost estimates & common vehicles...
- Check coolant levels and condition
- Inspect the thermostat
- Check the cooling fan
SYMPTOM-WHITE-SMOKE: The SYMPTOM-WHITE-SMOKE code indicates that your vehicle is emitting white smoke from the exhaust. This can be caused by a coolant leak, faulty EGR system, or clogged catalytic converter.
Learn to diagnose and fix SYMPTOM-WHITE-SMOKE code. White smoke from exhaust can be caused by coolant leak, faulty EGR system, or clogged catalytic converter.
- Preliminary Checks
- Coolant System Inspection
- EGR System Inspection
- ...see all 4 steps →
Understanding Powertrain Engine Codes
Powertrain Engine diagnostic trouble codes are set by your vehicle's onboard computer (ECU/PCM) when it detects a problem in the engine system. Here's what you need to know:
- How codes are triggered: Sensors monitor engine performance. When readings fall outside expected ranges, the ECU stores a DTC and illuminates the check engine light.
- Freeze frame data: When a code is set, the ECU also records engine conditions at that moment. This data helps pinpoint the exact cause.
- Pending vs. confirmed: A code becomes "confirmed" after multiple drive cycles with the same fault. Pending codes may clear on their own.
Tools You'll Need for Diagnosis
- OBD-II scanner — Essential for reading and clearing codes. A basic scanner works for most codes.
- Digital multimeter — For testing sensor voltages, resistance, and continuity.
- Repair manual — Vehicle-specific wiring diagrams and specifications.
- Safety equipment — Gloves, safety glasses, jack stands for under-vehicle work.
When to See a Mechanic
While many engine codes can be diagnosed at home, see a professional if:
- The code is critical severity — driving may cause further damage
- Multiple related codes are present — suggests a deeper systemic issue
- You don't have the tools or experience for the required diagnostic steps
- The repair involves fuel system, exhaust, or catalytic converter work