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P0019 Code Explained: Crankshaft Position–Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor B Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

OBD-II scanner displaying P0019 beside Bank 2 exhaust camshaft and crankshaft gears with misaligned timing marks, timing-chain warning and Check Engine Light

If your OBD-II scanner displays P0019, your vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected that the crankshaft and Bank 2 “B” camshaft are no longer properly synchronized.

On most dual-overhead-cam engines, Sensor B refers to the exhaust camshaft, while Bank 2 is the side of the engine opposite Bank 1. Bank 1 contains cylinder number one, so Bank 2 is the other cylinder bank.

The crankshaft controls piston movement, while the exhaust camshaft controls when the exhaust valves open and close. These components must remain precisely synchronized for the engine to run efficiently and avoid internal damage.

P0019 is commonly caused by:

P0019 should be treated as a serious diagnostic trouble code. Although a failed sensor or wiring fault may trigger it, the code frequently points to a mechanical timing or variable valve timing problem that can cause severe engine damage if ignored.

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P0019 Quick Facts

ItemInformation
OBD-II codeP0019
Official descriptionCrankshaft Position–Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor B
CategoryPowertrain
SystemMechanical engine timing and variable valve timing
Code typeGeneric SAE powertrain code
SeverityHigh
Safe to drive?Limited driving only; immediate diagnosis recommended
Most common causesStretched timing chain, failed tensioner, Bank 2 exhaust VVT fault
Typical repair cost$150–$4,000+

What Does the P0019 Code Mean?

P0019 means “Crankshaft Position–Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor B.”

The ECM continuously compares the electrical signals produced by the crankshaft position sensor and the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft position sensor.

The crankshaft position sensor helps the ECM determine:

The Bank 2 exhaust camshaft position sensor helps the ECM determine:

The ECM expects the crankshaft and exhaust camshaft signals to maintain a precise relationship.

When the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft signal appears too early, too late or inconsistent relative to the crankshaft signal, the ECM stores P0019.

The timing deviation may be caused by:

P0019 is closely related to:

What Does Sensor B Mean?

On most dual-overhead-cam engines:

P0019 therefore usually refers to the relationship between the crankshaft and the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft.

Manufacturer naming conventions can vary, so always verify the correct camshaft and sensor using vehicle-specific service information.

Do not replace a sensor solely based on where it is mounted on the cylinder head.

What Is Bank 2?

Bank 2 is the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder number one.

Bank 2 exists only on engines with multiple cylinder banks, including:

Inline engines normally have only Bank 1 and should not produce a true Bank 2 correlation code.

Depending on the engine, Bank 2 may be on the driver side or passenger side.

Confirm the correct bank using:

Never identify Bank 2 based only on the vehicle’s orientation.

How Crankshaft and Exhaust Camshaft Timing Works

The crankshaft converts piston movement into rotational force.

The exhaust camshaft opens and closes the exhaust valves, allowing burned gases to leave the cylinders.

The crankshaft and camshaft are synchronized through a:

During normal engine operation:

  1. The intake valve opens.
  2. Air and fuel enter the cylinder.
  3. The piston compresses the mixture.
  4. Combustion forces the piston downward.
  5. The exhaust valve opens.
  6. The piston pushes burned gases out of the cylinder.

The exhaust valves must open and close at precisely the correct time relative to piston position.

If the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft moves out of synchronization, the engine may develop:

How the ECM Detects P0019

The camshaft and crankshaft sensors monitor toothed or patterned reluctor wheels.

As each tooth or target passes the sensor, an electrical signal is generated. The ECM compares the timing of these signals against a programmed reference pattern.

The ECM may store P0019 when:

An oscilloscope can display the camshaft and crankshaft signals at the same time. This is known as a cam and crank correlation waveform.

Comparing the waveform with known-good data can help reveal mechanical timing errors without immediately disassembling the engine.

Symptoms of the P0019 Code

Symptoms depend on how far the timing has shifted and whether the problem is mechanical, hydraulic or electrical.

Common symptoms include:

A small correlation error may produce only a Check Engine Light.

A severely stretched or jumped timing chain may cause:

Common Causes of P0019

1. Stretched Timing Chain

A stretched timing chain is one of the most common causes of P0019.

Timing chains do not normally stretch like rubber. Instead, wear develops at the:

This accumulated wear increases the chain’s effective length and changes the relationship between the crankshaft and Bank 2 exhaust camshaft.

Common signs include:

Timing-chain wear is more likely on engines with:

2. Failed Timing-Chain Tensioner

The timing-chain tensioner keeps the chain tight.

Many tensioners use:

A failed tensioner may allow the chain to become loose and alter camshaft timing.

Possible failures include:

A tensioner that drains down overnight often causes a brief rattling noise when the engine starts.

3. Worn or Broken Timing Guides

Timing guides keep the chain aligned.

They may:

Broken guide material may fall into the oil pan and restrict the oil pickup.

This can create both:

4. Jumped Timing Chain

A loose timing chain may jump one or more teeth on a sprocket.

This can happen because of:

A chain that jumps one tooth may cause rough running and P0019.

A chain that jumps several teeth may cause:

5. Slipped or Damaged Timing Belt

On engines using a timing belt, P0019 may be caused by:

Timing belts should be replaced at the manufacturer’s recommended interval.

A failed timing belt on an interference engine can cause immediate internal engine damage.

6. Incorrect Mechanical Timing

P0019 may appear after:

Possible installation errors include:

If P0019 appears immediately after timing work, verify mechanical timing before replacing sensors.

7. Faulty Bank 2 Exhaust Camshaft Phaser

The exhaust camshaft phaser changes camshaft timing using engine-oil pressure.

A failed phaser may:

A phaser that remains in the wrong position can trigger P0019 even if the timing chain is installed correctly.

Related codes may include:

8. Faulty Bank 2 Exhaust VVT Solenoid

The exhaust VVT solenoid controls oil flow to the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft phaser.

A sticking or failed solenoid may prevent the exhaust camshaft from reaching its commanded position.

Possible causes include:

An actuator circuit fault may also store P0023.

Timing-performance faults may store P0024 or P0025.

9. Low Engine Oil Level

Variable valve timing systems and hydraulic chain tensioners depend on engine oil.

Low oil may cause:

Always check the engine-oil level before beginning advanced diagnosis.

10. Dirty or Incorrect Engine Oil

Dirty or incorrect oil can interfere with VVT operation and timing-chain tensioner performance.

Possible problems include:

Oil that is too thick may flow too slowly through the Bank 2 exhaust phaser and solenoid.

Oil that is too thin may fail to maintain adequate pressure in worn components.

11. Low Engine Oil Pressure

The engine-oil level may be correct while actual pressure remains too low.

Possible causes include:

Low oil pressure can affect:

A mechanical oil-pressure test may be necessary.

12. Faulty Bank 2 Exhaust Camshaft Position Sensor

The Bank 2 exhaust camshaft position sensor may produce:

Possible causes include:

However, the sensor may be functioning correctly and reporting a real timing problem.

Do not replace it based only on P0019.

13. Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor

The crankshaft position sensor supplies the ECM’s primary engine-position reference.

A faulty signal may be caused by:

A crankshaft sensor problem may also cause:

14. Shifted Bank 2 Exhaust Camshaft Reluctor Wheel

The Bank 2 exhaust camshaft sensor reads a reluctor or trigger wheel mounted on the camshaft or phaser.

The reluctor may become:

A shifted reluctor changes the sensor signal even if the mechanical valve timing remains correct.

15. Shifted Crankshaft Reluctor Wheel

The crankshaft reluctor may also move out of position.

Possible causes include:

A shifted crankshaft reluctor can affect several camshaft correlation codes at the same time.

16. Damaged Sensor Wiring or Connectors

Inspect the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft and crankshaft sensor circuits for:

Intermittent wiring faults may appear only when the engine is hot, vibrating or under load.

17. Faulty ECM or PCM

ECM failure is possible but uncommon.

Before replacing the module, verify:

A replacement ECM may require:

How Serious Is the P0019 Code?

P0019 is a serious diagnostic trouble code.

It may indicate that the engine’s mechanical timing is no longer correct.

Ignoring the code may lead to:

The risk is particularly high on an interference engine.

In an interference engine, the pistons and valves occupy the same physical space at different points in the combustion cycle. If camshaft timing moves far enough, they may collide.

Can You Drive With P0019?

Limited driving may be possible if:

However, continued driving is not recommended.

Stop driving immediately if you notice:

If the timing chain or belt has moved, further engine operation may cause catastrophic damage.

How to Diagnose P0019

Step 1: Scan for Additional Codes

Use an OBD-II scanner to check for related codes.

Common companion codes include:

Record:

Do not clear the codes before recording this information.

Step 2: Check the Engine Oil

Inspect:

Correct low or incorrect oil before proceeding.

Fresh oil may improve a sticking VVT system, but it cannot repair a stretched timing chain or damaged timing belt.

Step 3: Identify Bank 2 and Sensor B

Use vehicle-specific service information to identify:

Do not assume Bank 2 is on a particular side of the vehicle.

Incorrect bank or sensor identification may lead to unnecessary parts replacement.

Step 4: Review Maintenance and Repair History

Determine:

A code appearing immediately after timing work strongly suggests an installation error.

Step 5: Listen for Timing-System Noise

Start the engine when cold and listen near the timing cover.

Warning sounds include:

Cold-start rattling may indicate:

Keep hands, clothing and tools away from moving engine components.

Step 6: Inspect Sensor Wiring and Connectors

Inspect the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft and crankshaft sensor circuits.

Look for:

Repair visible electrical faults before disassembling the timing system.

Step 7: Test the Bank 2 Exhaust Camshaft Position Sensor

Depending on sensor design, test:

Hall-effect sensors normally require:

Magnetic sensors may generate their own AC voltage.

Use vehicle-specific testing specifications.

Step 8: Test the Crankshaft Position Sensor

Perform similar testing on the crankshaft position sensor.

Inspect:

An oscilloscope is often the best tool for detecting intermittent signal dropout.

Step 9: Compare Camshaft and Crankshaft Waveforms

Connect an oscilloscope to the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft sensor and crankshaft sensor.

Compare the signals with a known-good waveform.

This may identify:

Waveform correlation can sometimes confirm a mechanical timing problem without removing the timing cover.

Step 10: Monitor Bank 2 Exhaust Camshaft Position

Use a capable scan tool to compare:

An exhaust camshaft that remains consistently advanced or retarded may indicate:

Compare Bank 2 data with Bank 1 when the engine design allows it.

A significant difference between the banks can help isolate the fault.

Step 11: Test the Bank 2 Exhaust VVT Solenoid

Inspect and test the Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid.

Testing may include:

If the electrical circuit works but the camshaft does not move correctly, suspect a hydraulic or mechanical problem.

Step 12: Remove and Inspect the VVT Solenoid

Remove the solenoid according to the manufacturer’s service procedure.

Inspect for:

Heavy metal contamination may indicate timing-chain, camshaft phaser or internal engine wear.

Cleaning may help minor contamination, but replacement is often more reliable when sticking returns.

Step 13: Check Engine Oil Pressure

Install a mechanical oil-pressure gauge if low pressure is suspected.

Measure pressure at:

Compare readings with factory specifications.

Do not assume oil pressure is adequate simply because the dashboard warning light remains off.

Step 14: Compare Bank 1 and Bank 2 Operation

On engines with similar exhaust VVT systems on both banks, compare:

If Bank 1 operates normally while Bank 2 remains out of position, the fault is likely localized to:

Step 15: Verify Mechanical Timing

If scan data or waveform testing suggests a timing fault, inspect the mechanical timing system.

This may require removing:

Position the engine at top dead center and compare all timing marks with factory specifications.

Inspect:

Special camshaft and crankshaft locking tools may be required.

Step 16: Inspect the Reluctor Wheels

If mechanical timing is correct but correlation remains wrong, inspect the camshaft and crankshaft reluctors.

Look for:

Some reluctors are press-fit and may require replacement of the camshaft, phaser or crankshaft if they move.

Step 17: Check Technical Service Bulletins

Some engines have known problems involving:

Review manufacturer service information before beginning major repairs.

Step 18: Verify the Repair

After completing repairs:

  1. Clear all stored codes.
  2. Start the engine from cold.
  3. Listen for abnormal timing-system noise.
  4. Monitor camshaft and crankshaft synchronization.
  5. Compare commanded and actual Bank 2 exhaust camshaft position.
  6. Complete the manufacturer’s drive cycle.
  7. Rescan for pending codes.
  8. Restart the engine several times.

A successful repair should restore proper correlation and prevent P0019 from returning.

Common P0019 Repairs and Costs

RepairEstimated cost
Diagnostic inspection$100–$300
Engine oil and filter change$60–$180
Repair sensor wiring$100–$500
Replace Bank 2 exhaust camshaft position sensor$150–$450
Replace crankshaft position sensor$175–$500
Replace Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid$150–$500
Replace Bank 2 exhaust camshaft phaser$600–$1,800
Replace timing-belt kit$700–$2,000
Replace timing-chain tensioner$500–$1,500
Replace timing chain, guides and tensioners$1,200–$4,000
Repair cylinder-head damage$2,500–$6,000+
Replace engine$4,000–$12,000+
ECM software update$100–$300
Replace and program ECM$1,000–$2,500+

Repair cost depends on:

A sensor replacement should not be assumed until the mechanical timing and VVT systems have been evaluated.

Common Diagnostic Mistakes

Replacing the Bank 2 Camshaft Sensor Immediately

P0019 does not automatically mean the camshaft position sensor has failed.

The sensor may be accurately reporting that the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft is out of time.

Replacing the Crankshaft Sensor Without Testing It

Replacing the crankshaft sensor without checking timing correlation may waste time and money.

Confusing Bank 1 and Bank 2

Bank 1 contains cylinder number one.

Bank 2 is the opposite bank.

Incorrect bank identification can lead to testing or replacing the wrong sensor, solenoid or phaser.

Confusing Sensor A and Sensor B

Sensor A usually refers to the intake camshaft.

Sensor B usually refers to the exhaust camshaft.

Always confirm manufacturer terminology.

Ignoring Timing-Chain Noise

Startup rattling is an important diagnostic clue.

It may indicate:

Ignoring the noise can lead to severe engine damage.

Assuming an Oil Change Will Repair Mechanical Wear

Fresh oil may improve a sticking VVT solenoid or hydraulic phaser.

It cannot repair:

Ignoring Recent Engine Repairs

If P0019 appears after timing-chain, timing-belt, camshaft or cylinder-head work, verify the installation before replacing electrical components.

Skipping Oil-Pressure Testing

Low oil pressure can affect both the Bank 2 exhaust phaser and timing-chain tensioner.

A correct oil level does not guarantee adequate oil pressure.

Failing to Compare Both Banks

Comparing Bank 1 and Bank 2 exhaust camshaft data may reveal whether the fault is isolated to one side of the engine.

Failing to Inspect the Reluctor Wheel

A shifted reluctor can cause a persistent correlation code even when mechanical timing marks appear correct.

Replacing the ECM Too Early

ECM failure is much less common than:

Test the complete system before replacing the module.

Vehicles Commonly Affected by P0019

P0019 can appear on OBD-II vehicles with multiple cylinder banks and separate camshaft and crankshaft position sensors.

Potentially affected manufacturers include:

P0019 is commonly associated with engines using:

The code alone does not prove that a specific vehicle has a known defect.

Diagnosis must be based on the exact year, make, model, engine and maintenance history.

How to Prevent P0019

Helpful preventive measures include:

Good oil maintenance is particularly important on engines using hydraulic timing-chain tensioners and oil-controlled camshaft phasers.

Frequently Asked Questions About P0019

What does code P0019 mean?

P0019 means the ECM has detected that the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft and crankshaft are not properly synchronized.

Is Sensor B the exhaust camshaft?

On most engines, yes.

Sensor B usually refers to the exhaust camshaft, while Sensor A usually refers to the intake camshaft.

Which side is Bank 2?

Bank 2 is the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder number one.

Its physical location varies by engine.

Can an inline engine have a P0019 code?

Normally, no.

Inline engines have only one cylinder bank. P0019 is intended for engines with Bank 2, such as V6, V8 or horizontally opposed engines.

Is P0019 usually caused by a timing chain?

A stretched or jumped timing chain is one of the most common causes.

However, P0019 can also be caused by:

Can low oil cause P0019?

Yes. Low oil may reduce pressure to the timing-chain tensioner and Bank 2 exhaust camshaft phaser.

Can dirty oil cause P0019?

Yes. Dirty oil may restrict the Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid, camshaft phaser or timing-chain tensioner.

Can the wrong oil viscosity cause P0019?

Yes. Incorrect oil viscosity can affect VVT response and hydraulic timing-chain tensioner operation.

Can a bad Bank 2 camshaft sensor cause P0019?

Yes, but the sensor should be tested before replacement.

It may be accurately reporting an actual mechanical timing problem.

Can a bad crankshaft sensor cause P0019?

Yes. A distorted or intermittent crankshaft signal may create an incorrect correlation reading.

Can a bad Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid cause P0019?

Yes. A sticking solenoid may prevent the exhaust camshaft from reaching its expected position.

Can a bad camshaft phaser cause P0019?

Yes. A worn or sticking Bank 2 exhaust phaser may remain advanced or retarded and trigger a correlation fault.

Can a shifted reluctor wheel cause P0019?

Yes. A shifted camshaft or crankshaft reluctor can alter the sensor signal even when mechanical timing appears correct.

Can I drive with P0019?

Limited driving may be possible if the engine runs normally and makes no unusual noise.

However, continued driving is risky because the code may indicate a loose or jumped timing chain.

Can P0019 cause rough idle?

Yes. Incorrect Bank 2 exhaust camshaft timing can cause rough idle, misfires and poor acceleration.

Can P0019 cause a no-start condition?

Yes. If the timing chain or belt moves far enough, the engine may crank but fail to start.

Will an oil change fix P0019?

It may help if the problem is caused by dirty oil or a sticking VVT component.

It will not repair a stretched chain, damaged belt, broken guide, failed tensioner or shifted reluctor.

Does P0019 mean the engine is damaged?

Not necessarily.

However, operating the engine with incorrect mechanical timing can eventually cause internal damage, especially on an interference engine.

How much does it cost to fix P0019?

A sensor, wiring or VVT solenoid repair may cost a few hundred dollars.

A timing-chain repair may cost approximately $1,200 to $4,000 or more.

If valves or pistons are damaged, repair costs can exceed $5,000.

Will clearing P0019 fix the vehicle?

No. Clearing the code only removes the warning temporarily.

The code will return if the camshaft and crankshaft correlation problem remains.

Will P0019 fail an emissions test?

Yes. An active Check Engine Light or emissions-related powertrain code will generally cause an OBD-based emissions inspection failure.

Final Thoughts

The P0019 code means the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft and crankshaft are no longer properly synchronized.

The most common causes include:

Begin diagnosis by checking the engine-oil level and condition, scanning for related codes and confirming the location of Bank 2 and Sensor B.

Inspect the sensor wiring and compare the camshaft and crankshaft signals. If the signals indicate a genuine correlation error, verify oil pressure, Bank 2 exhaust VVT operation and mechanical timing before replacing sensors or the ECM.

P0019 should be diagnosed promptly. Addressing it early may prevent a manageable VVT or timing-system repair from becoming a complete engine replacement.

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