Can anybody tell me what Error Code P0015: "B" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded means? How do you fix this and how much should a mechanic charge to fix it? Thanks for our help!

 

The camshafts in an engine open and close the valves that allow air/fuel to flow into each of the engine's cylinders, and allows the burnt exhaust gases out of the engine's cylinders. The timing of the valves opening and closing (and therefore the timing of the camshaft position) must match the position of the piston's moving up and down in the cylinder. This timing is also variable, meaning the engine control system actively changes the timing of the valves opening and closing to suit the conditions at the time, to produce the best power, best response, best fuel economy.

This particular error code indicates that the cam shaft timing is not matching what the engine control system expects it to be, either a sensor malfunction or the variable valve timing system is not working properly. The problem could be a sensor, it could be electrical, or it could simply be caused by dirt buildup in one of the oil lines that feeds the valve timing systems.

 

Thank you Droid13 for the information. If I clear the error code P0015 and it does not pop up again, it it safe to conclude that the issue has cleared itself? Or should I replace the sensor and repair the variable valve timing system (VTS) regardless? How much approximately will it cost to replace the sensor or repair VTS? Thanks, again!

 

It is most likely a sensor problem. Clear the code and hope for the best. Cost to do such repairs varies greatly depending on where you live in the US. Try to find a Toyota specialist shop as they will be very familiar with this engine. It is used in a dozen Toyota and Lexus vehicles and variations of it have been used for many years. They will have dealt with this issue before.
If you need to find such a repair shop use this link of great shops recommended by listeners of the old NPR radio Car Talk show https://www.cartalk.com/mechanics-files

Diagnosis is not just reading codes, that is only the first step before pursuing further automotive detective work to figure out what is really broken.

 

Thanks for the information and suggestion, Clutchless. I will look for a good local Toyota shop near my home. Do you happen to know the Toyota Part Number for this malfunctioning crankshaft sensor? Is it 90919-T5005 or 90919-A5003 or 90919-05060? Please advise. Thanks again.

 

You are getting exceptional help. I will add mine 2c worth ...

On the onset of the error code, I jog down the code and clear it once. I do the visual check .. wires, fluids, air-flow and check battery voltage. If the voltage is low, put on the charger for an overnight charge. If the error comes back, then I would investigate/take it to a mechanic.

Salim

 

Don't worry about knowing the number of a part you may not need.
That puts you in the position of telling (prejudicing or insulting) the mechanic that you already know what it is but not how to fix it. Lots of folks pull codes and think they know what is wrong, but it does not make them mechanics able to perform complete diagnostics.

Just tell the shop you pulled the code and your symptoms and let them do their job. If you need a new part, they will have no problem figuring out what is needed and getting it from their parts supplier, whether OEM or aftermarket.