P1349Manufacturer-specific code

P1349 Code: Variable Valve Timing (VVT) System Malfunction (Toyota, Bank 1)

On Toyota and Lexus, the P1349 code points to a malfunction in the bank 1 variable valve timing (VVT) system. You may notice a rough idle, a loss of power and sometimes a rattle at startup. Low or dirty oil is the most common cause.

Severity
Medium
Can I keep driving?
Yes, but with caution
Estimated cost
$20 to $900
Difficulty
Medium
System
Ignition and Misfires
Applies to
Depends on the manufacturer

Common in: Toyota

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

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What the P1349 code means

P1349 is a manufacturer-specific code: the 1 in the second position means each automaker defines what it stands for, not the generic standard. The most widespread definition is the one used by Toyota and Lexus. If your vehicle is another brand, confirm the code text with a scan tool that supports that manufacturer.

ManufacturerMeaning of P1349
Toyota and LexusVariable valve timing (VVT) system malfunction (bank 1)

The Toyota VVT-i system advances or retards the intake camshaft with a hydraulic gear. The computer controls it with the OCV valve, which meters engine oil, and checks the actual position with the camshaft sensor.

The computer sets the P1349 code when it commands the camshaft to move and the actual position does not follow the command.

Before you repair anything, confirm the make, model, year and engine. With manufacturer codes, the same number can change even between engines from the same brand.

P1349 code symptoms

  • Check engine light on.
  • Rough idle, or an engine that stalls.
  • Loss of power.
  • Higher fuel use.

Likely causes of the P1349 code

  1. Low, dirty or wrong-viscosity oil. The most frequent cause.
  2. Clogged OCV valve. Test it by activating it with the scan tool.
  3. Plugged OCV filter. Replace it if you do not know how old it is.
  4. Worn VVT gear. Confirm it with the tests in the diagnosis section.

How to diagnose the P1349 code step by step

  1. Check the oil level and condition.
  2. Activate the OCV with the scan tool. At idle the engine should shake or stall if it works.
  3. Measure the OCV resistance. It is 6.9 to 7.9 ohms on many engines.
  4. Clean the OCV filter if the engine has one.
  5. Verify the valve timing.

How to fix the P1349 code

  • Change the oil and filter with the correct viscosity.
  • Clean or replace the OCV.
  • Replace the VVT gear if it is damaged.
  • Correct the valve timing if it is off, then clear the P1349 code and confirm it does not return.

Technical reference data

  • OCV resistance: about 6.9 to 7.9 ohms at 20 °C (68 °F).
  • Typical oil: 0W-20 or 5W-30 depending on the engine.
  • P1xxx codes are manufacturer-specific: confirm the definition with a scan tool that supports your brand.
  • Values are approximate: check the manufacturer data for your vehicle.

Brand-specific notes

Very common on the Corolla, Yaris, RAV4 and Camry. Always use the oil viscosity specified and change the oil on time, because VVT-i is very sensitive to it.

If your vehicle is another brand, check the table above for the meaning its manufacturer gives the code, and confirm it with a scan tool that supports that brand.

Frequently asked questions about P1349

What does the P1349 code mean on a Toyota?
It points to a malfunction in the bank 1 variable valve timing (VVT) system. You may notice a rough idle, a loss of power and sometimes a rattle at startup.
Does P1349 mean the same thing on every brand?
No. It is a manufacturer code, and on other brands it may not exist or it may mean something else.
Can I drive with a P1349 code?
Yes, with caution. If you hear a metallic knocking, have it checked soon, and check the oil level first because low oil is the top cause.
How much does it cost to fix P1349?
On a Toyota the cost runs from about $20 to $900. An oil change or an OCV cleaning is cheap, while a VVT gear or timing repair is on the expensive end.
Will a P1349 code clear itself?
It may if the cause was low or dirty oil that you have corrected, but a clogged valve or a worn gear will bring the code back.
What is the most common cause of P1349?
Low, dirty or wrong-viscosity oil. Check the level and condition, then the OCV valve and its filter.

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