P0013 Chevy Malibu- Insight Into The Reason And Patch Of This Code

What does DTC P0013 Chevy Malibu mean? Any issues with “Oil Control Valve”, or ECM this code P0013 shows up.

Let’s know about the components of VVT which caused the P0013. The reason and solution for this DTC code are the same for all Chevy Malibu models.

P0013 is prevalent in Chevy Malibu. If you do not solve the error and keep driving for a long time, it can damage your ECM. It will cost a fortune for further repair.

Here I have a complete guide about all the details about the P0013 code.

Reasons & Fixes for P0013 Chevy Malibu

P0013 code on Chevy Malibu is like

Exhaust “B” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 1)

This code is related to “Variable Valve Timing” (VVT) or “Variable Camshaft Timing” (VCT) components. Sometimes, you might get the P0014 code for also.

The VVT system’s main component is the camshaft actuator. Another component is the VVT solenoid. VVT solenoid is known as the “Oil Control Valve” (OCV). This solenoid controls the oil flow to the exhaust actuator. VVT solenoid and its control circuit can be damaged. Any issues with VVT components create the P0013 code.

Any problem with ECM (Engine Control Module) also pulls P0013.

Let’s take a glance at the possible reasons and P0013 Chevy Malibu symptoms–

Reasons	Symptoms You Might Get
Inoperative ECM	Low mileage
Control circuit /wiring of oil control valve	Engine light on
Damaged oil control valve /VVT solenoid/ camshaft position actuator	Rattling noise from the engine/ engine performance decrease
Engine oil sludge	Difficulty in starting the engine

Inoperative ECM

If there is any issue in ECM, it commands the wrong signal to OCV. ECM sends the signal to OCV to perform 70% but expects the same output as normal but gets 3% less. If this happens, you will get a P0013 Chevy Malibu code.

Solution

ECM needs repair. And this will erase the code from the module and have a test drive.

Control circuit /wiring of oil control valve

Wiring issues are secondary issues. If your camshaft sensor is working properly or after changing the sensor you are still getting this error code on your scanner it may be the wiring issue. It is a simple and uncommon problem for this code but it can happen sometimes.

Solution

Need to visit a professional to do some electrical troubleshooting. P0013 08 Chevy Malibu can be fixed easily there.

Damaged oil control valve /VVT solenoid/ exhaust camshaft position actuator

OCV is controlled by PCM. This OCV controls the oil flow to the actuator. OCV needs to perform smoothly to get the engine to its full performance. The main reason for this P0013 Chevy Malibu code is a broken oil control valve

Solution

Replacement of OCV is the main solution for this code. Change the OCV, then reset the code and have a test drive.

Engine oil sludge

It is a common cause of code P0013 Chevy Malibu 2009. Excessive oil sludge lower engine mileage and engine performance. It also gives a hard time while starting the engine.

Solution- Regular oil change of engine oil can refrain you from this kind of trouble. Always try to use the manufacturer’s recommended engine oil and change it every three months.

How much will it cost to fix code P0013?

The cost depends on the model of Chevy Malibu and which location you are staying in.

Cost	Price
VVT Solenoid replacement	$60 to $400(depends on the models)
Labor cost	$75 to $150 per hour (depends on location)
Diagnostic fee	$80 and $111(sometimes they offer free diagnostic)

Repair of OCV is not recommended. Replacement is the best practice for faulty parts P0013 Chevy Malibu 2013.

This Video Will Help You Too!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the P0013 code?

The causes of the P0013 code are given below-

#. Short circuit or faulty wiring of OCV.
#. When dirty engine oil blocks and damages the VVT solenoid/ oil control valve.
#. Faulty ECM. When ECM gives input the OCV duty cycle is less than 80% but the output is 100%. OR, ECM commands up to 70% but the output of OCV is 3%.
#. Broken Camshaft sensors.
#. Engine oil slugged.

They are the main causes found for P0013 Chevy Malibu 2010 also.

Can you drive with P0013?

Ans-You can have a short drive with this code. But do not make frequent short drives with error P0013 Chevy Malibu 2008. The more you drive, the more damage your engine will get. So, the best practice is to solve the problem and have a safe drive.

Final Word

I hope you have got your answer. This is not an easy task that one can do by themselves. You need to have your Chevy inspected by a professional if your scanner shows a P0013 Chevy Malibu. If you do not repair it promptly, it will damage your engine more.

You Can Also Read:

Smith Ben

Smith is an expert at modern car trouble codes and symbols. He manages all the diagram and error code clearing topics. Smith has done diploma in automotive and diesel mechanics. He always loves to play with different car programmers and performance tuners and always finds out ideas and hacks on HP gain to modern cars. Whether it’s a regular passenger car or an SUV, vehicle owners love to take his suggestions before tuning their car computers.

P0013 Chevy Malibu- Insight Into The Reason And Patch Of This Code!