Hi everyone,
I got a 2003 S40 with 90000 miles. One day I got the P0015 code. First I tried to reset the ECU memory by disconnecting batt and removed and cleaned the solenoid as it seems like the common causes. Solenoid was fine, clicking healthy and I cleaned it, I checked the wires and got a good ground and power as well. Put everything back, turned the engine on and the P0015 code was still there plus the P0013 code showed up. I thought it was because I disconnect the solenoid connector so I don't mind it much. I put some Seafoam into the oil a couple days ago to clean the sludge that might have clogged up the VVT system. Today I rechecked the engine and P0301 and P0304 code came up along with the other 2 codes. I checked the gear and timing marks line up. Engine runs fine no issue. Yesterday I did have to put some gas into the engine to go over an object and the engine stalled for a sec and came back. I wonder if that was what caused the P0301 and P0304 code. Please any help is appreciated. Thank you!

 

the P0013 is pointing to the VVT solenoid the P0015 is saying the cam in out of position (as you'd expect if the solenoid was not properly actuating the VVT gear or if you have a bad cam position sensor). I believe the 13 is saying there's an open circuit so it could be a fried solenoid or a wire/harness issue. The 301 and 304s are saying a misfire was sensed. Normally you'd run out and buy coils/wires/plugs but I'd resolve the VVT issues are resolved - its likely the misfires were caused by the cam timing being off. Note disconnecting the battery won't clear codes. You can buy an OBD2 reader to do that - check Amazon for the bluetooth adaptors that work with your phone. They go for a little as $10, or buy a $39 reader from HarborFreight.

 

I like said I check the solenoid by applying car batt to it and it clicking very healthy. I cleaned it and put it back. I check the wire harness with a multimeter and got a good ground/power as well. The only thing I'm not sure is when I plug or unplug the solenoid connector the engine seems to be unchanged. What does that mean?