P1009 Subaru Variable Valve Timing Control Advance Malfunction

Possible causes

– Engine oil level
– Dirty engine oil
– Check VTC Strainer for blockage
– Faulty VTC Oil Control Solenoid or circuit
– Faulty VTC Actuator
– Engine mechanical problems

Tech description

An stretched timing chain or damaged tensioner can also caused triggered the P1009 Subaru code. Before replacing timing chain or tensioner, check engine oil level and condition. Replaced engine oil and filter with factory recommend oil weight if necessary.

Symptoms

– Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)

P1009 Subaru Description

The variable valve timing control (VTC) system controls the phase of the intake camshaft. It uses oil pressure to operate the VTC actuator so the valve timing is optimized depending on driving conditions. The engine control module (ECM)/Powertrain control module (PCM) monitors the phase control command and the actual timing of the camshaft by using camshaft position

(CMP) sensor A. If an over-advanced camshaft phase (compared to the directed value) continues or when the camshaft phase is otherwise abnormal, a malfunction is detected and a DTC is stored.