P0015 fault code: what it means

P0015: Bank 1 exhaust (B) cam timing is more retarded than commanded.

Engine and gearbox (powertrain) · Costly if missed

Usual causes, most likely first

low or contaminated engine oil
faulty exhaust VVT solenoid
stretched timing chain or worn tensioner
worn exhaust cam phaser

P0015 by make

BMW

Exhaust cam timing over-retarded (bank 1). Exhaust VANOS is not holding the position the DME asked for.

Usual causes: exhaust VANOS solenoid clogged or sticking; low or degraded engine oil; stretched timing chain

Mazda

Exhaust cam timing (oil-fed VVT) more retarded than target on SkyActiv-G. Same system as P0014: oil control valve, actuator, timing chain, then oil.

Usual causes: oil control valve (OCV) stuck; exhaust VVT actuator; loose or jumped timing chain; low, old or wrong grade engine oil / low oil pressure

Mercedes-Benz

Exhaust camshaft timing over-retarded, bank 1. Linked on Mercedes (notably M272) to faulty camshaft adjusters or adjuster magnets.

Usual causes: faulty camshaft adjuster magnet; faulty camshaft adjuster; stretched timing chain; low or old engine oil

What the repair usually costs

A/C compressor replace incl. drier and flush (European)NZ$1,560–NZ$3,200 · A$1,490–A$3,050
Timing chain, tensioner and guides (4-cylinder)NZ$1,120–NZ$2,530 · A$1,160–A$2,570
Timing chains and tensioners (V6 / V8)NZ$1,890–NZ$4,080 · A$1,920–A$4,110

Not sure what P0015 means on your car? Ask Credov.

Before you clear it

Write the code down or photograph the scanner first. A code that comes straight back after clearing points to a fault that is still there. A car whose codes were cleared just before you arrived may be hiding one: the scanner's readiness monitors show "not ready" for a while after codes are cleared.

Researched by Credov from manufacturer and workshop sources. A fault code points to where a fault may be; a workshop confirms it with a diagnosis. Browse all fault codes.