OCV (Oil Control Valve) Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1)

What it means

This is a Toyota-specific code; the same number may mean something else on other makes. The engine computer detected an open or short in the electrical circuit of the oil control valve (OCV) that routes oil to change cam timing. It is an electrical fault in the valve or its wiring, not an oil problem.

Models covered: Toyota engines with VVT-i, mainly model years around 1998–2005 (e.g. Camry, Corolla, Avalon, RAV4, Highlander, Sienna); later models use generic codes such as P0011/P0012.

Related codes: P0010P1349P0011P0012

Symptoms4

• Check engine light on.
• Rough idle or weak acceleration.
• Higher fuel consumption.
• The engine may run almost normally because the computer holds timing in a safe default position.

Possible causes4

• Open or shorted OCV coil.
• Corroded, loose or oil-soaked OCV connector.
• Open or short in the wiring between the OCV and the engine computer.
• Faulty engine computer (rare).

How to diagnose4

1. Inspect the OCV connector for oil or corrosion.
2. Measure the OCV coil resistance with a multimeter and compare with the Toyota specification.
3. Check the wiring between the valve and the computer for opens or shorts to ground.
4. Use a scan tool to command the valve and check the signal reaching it.

How to fix5

1. Clean and secure the connector.
2. Repair cut or chafed wiring.
3. Replace the oil control valve if its coil resistance is out of specification.
4. Test or replace the computer only after the valve and wiring are ruled out.
5. Clear the codes and confirm the code does not return after a drive.

The low end is a connector or wire repair; the high end is a genuine oil control valve plus labor.

Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026

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