Q: Service engine soon

asked by on February 18, 2017

Hello i recently purchased 2009 maxima preowned. The service engine soon light popped up so i got it checked with my local mechanic. The codes are: P0014, P0024 & P0448 My mechanic did not know what the exact issue or how to fix it. My question is how bad are these and what is the problem and how to get them fixed. Also how much will it cost me to fix. Thanks

My car has 90000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Codes P0014 and P0024 are related to the exhaust valve timing. The engine is equipped with variable valve timing. This system is oil pressure fed. It can vary intake and exhaust cam timing to allow the engine to make good power across a broad range of rpms. With age or infrequent oil changes, the solenoids (sometimes called cam phasers) that control the cam timing can become clogged, effecting oil pressure to the variable cam system. If the cam timing is out or range or inconsistent because of this, those fault codes will be set. Sometimes you can get away with a simple fix of multiple oil changes. You can try changing the oil and filter with a thinner oil and allow the engine to idle for 30-40 minutes. Then perform another oil and filter change with the proper oil. This can sometimes clear out the solenoids. If it does not work, replacement of the variable valve timing solenoids AND another oil change is the only fix. Fault code P0448 has to do with the Evaporative system. This has to do with venting fuel tank fumes and others into the intake system to be burned away during normal engine operation. The system is designed to operate in a specific pressure range. This fault code is set when the pressure is out of range. The fix can be as simple as a new gas cap, or get more involved like replacing the purge canister or purge valve. Both should be addressed as soon as possible for optimal performance. continued driving with the variable cam faults can cause more damage in the long run, reduce power and fuel economy.

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