If your OBD-II scanner displays P0022, your vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected that the Bank 2 “A” camshaft is more retarded than commanded or is failing to advance to its requested position.
On most dual-overhead-cam engines, Camshaft A refers to the intake 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.
Modern engines use variable valve timing to advance or retard the camshaft according to engine speed, load, temperature and throttle position. When the ECM commands the Bank 2 intake camshaft to advance but detects that it remains too far retarded, it stores P0022.
P0022 is commonly caused by:
- Low or dirty engine oil
- Incorrect oil viscosity
- Low engine-oil pressure
- A sticking Bank 2 intake VVT solenoid
- Restricted VVT oil passages
- A failed intake camshaft phaser
- A stretched or jumped timing chain
- Incorrect mechanical timing
- A faulty camshaft position sensor
- A shifted camshaft reluctor wheel
- Damaged wiring or connectors
- An ECM software or control problem
P0022 should be diagnosed promptly. While some vehicles may continue running with only a Check Engine Light, excessively retarded intake camshaft timing can cause poor acceleration, rough idle, hard starting, increased emissions and potential engine damage.
Looking for more diagnostic resources? Browse our complete OBD-II libraries:
- Complete OBD-II Code Library: https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-obdii/
- Body (B) Codes: https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-doctor/b-code-obd-ii-codes/
- Chassis (C) Codes: https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-doctor/c-code-obd-ii-codes/
P0022 Quick Facts
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| OBD-II code | P0022 |
| Official description | “A” Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 2 |
| Category | Powertrain |
| System | Variable valve timing |
| Code type | Generic SAE powertrain code |
| Severity | Moderate to high |
| Safe to drive? | Limited driving only; diagnose promptly |
| Most common causes | Dirty oil, sticking VVT solenoid, failed phaser, timing-chain wear |
| Typical repair cost | $60–$4,000+ |
What Does the P0022 Code Mean?
P0022 means “‘A’ Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 2.”
The ECM commanded the Bank 2 intake camshaft to a specific position but detected that the camshaft:
- Remained too far retarded
- Failed to advance as commanded
- Returned too slowly from a retarded position
- Operated outside the acceptable timing range
- Responded too slowly to the VVT command
- Failed to match the requested camshaft angle
The ECM determines camshaft position by comparing signals from the:
- Crankshaft position sensor
- Bank 2 intake camshaft position sensor
The ECM also monitors the command sent to the Bank 2 intake VVT solenoid.
If the actual camshaft angle remains behind the requested angle, the ECM may store P0022.
P0022 is closely related to:
- P0012: “A” Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
- P0018: Crankshaft Position–Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor A
- P0020: “A” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit Bank 2
- P0021: “A” Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 2
- P0025: “B” Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 2
- P0009: Engine Position System Performance Bank 2
What Does Camshaft A Mean?
On most dual-overhead-cam engines:
- Camshaft A is the intake camshaft.
- Camshaft B is the exhaust camshaft.
The intake camshaft controls when the intake valves open and close.
The ECM adjusts intake camshaft timing to improve:
- Low-speed torque
- High-RPM power
- Fuel economy
- Throttle response
- Combustion efficiency
- Emissions performance
If the intake camshaft remains excessively retarded, the intake valves may open and close later than intended.
This can reduce:
- Cylinder filling
- Low-speed torque
- Engine response
- Combustion efficiency
Manufacturer terminology may vary, so verify Camshaft A using vehicle-specific service information.
What Is Bank 2?
Bank 2 is the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder number one.
Bank 2 exists on engines with multiple cylinder banks, including:
- V6 engines
- V8 engines
- V10 engines
- V12 engines
- Horizontally opposed engines
Inline engines normally have only Bank 1 and should not store a true Bank 2 code.
Bank 2 may be located on either side of the vehicle depending on the engine design.
Confirm Bank 2 using:
- Manufacturer service information
- A cylinder-numbering diagram
- A firing-order diagram
- Underhood labels
- A professional repair database
Do not assume Bank 2 is always the driver side or passenger side.
What Does Over-Retarded Camshaft Timing Mean?
Camshaft timing is considered retarded when the camshaft rotates behind its normal or commanded position relative to the crankshaft.
The ECM intentionally advances and retards the camshaft under different operating conditions.
P0022 does not mean that all camshaft retard is abnormal. It means the Bank 2 intake camshaft is:
- More retarded than commanded
- Failing to advance when requested
- Responding too slowly
- Unable to maintain the requested position
- Outside the manufacturer’s acceptable timing range
The cause may be:
- Hydraulic
- Mechanical
- Electrical
- Software-related
How Variable Valve Timing Works
A typical variable valve timing system includes:
- ECM or PCM
- VVT solenoid
- Camshaft phaser
- Pressurized engine oil
- Camshaft position sensor
- Crankshaft position sensor
- Internal oil passages
The system works as follows:
- The ECM calculates the desired camshaft angle.
- The ECM sends a duty-cycle command to the VVT solenoid.
- The solenoid directs engine oil to the camshaft phaser.
- The phaser rotates the camshaft relative to the timing sprocket.
- The camshaft position sensor reports the actual angle.
- The ECM adjusts the solenoid command to maintain the requested position.
If oil cannot reach the advance side of the phaser, or if the phaser cannot move, the camshaft may remain over-retarded.
This may happen because of:
- Low oil pressure
- A sticking solenoid
- A blocked oil passage
- A failed phaser
- Timing-chain stretch
- Incorrect mechanical timing
How the ECM Detects P0022
The ECM compares:
- Commanded Bank 2 intake camshaft angle
- Actual Bank 2 intake camshaft angle
- Crankshaft position
- VVT solenoid duty cycle
- Camshaft response time
P0022 may be stored when:
- The camshaft does not advance enough.
- The camshaft remains retarded too long.
- The actual camshaft angle falls behind the commanded angle.
- The phaser responds too slowly.
- The camshaft fails to return to the expected position.
- The camshaft signal remains outside a programmed limit.
Some vehicles may set P0022 during:
- Cold startup
- Warm idle
- Acceleration
- Deceleration
- Steady cruising
- VVT self-testing
Symptoms of the P0022 Code
Symptoms vary depending on how far the camshaft is retarded and whether the condition is intermittent.
Common symptoms include:
- Illuminated Check Engine Light
- Rough idle
- Poor acceleration
- Reduced low-speed torque
- Engine hesitation
- Hard starting
- Extended cranking
- Engine stalling
- Engine misfires
- Poor fuel economy
- Increased emissions
- Reduced throttle response
- Timing-chain rattle
- Metallic startup noise
- Limp mode
- Failed emissions inspection
- Uneven engine operation
- Strong exhaust odor
- Reduced engine power
Some vehicles may show no obvious symptoms other than the warning light.
If the camshaft remains severely retarded, the engine may run poorly or fail to start.
Common Causes of P0022
1. Dirty Engine Oil
Dirty oil is one of the most common causes of variable valve timing problems.
Contaminated oil may create:
- Sludge
- Varnish
- Carbon deposits
- Restricted oil passages
- Sticking VVT solenoids
- Slow camshaft-phaser movement
VVT components rely on precise oil flow through small passages.
Even moderate contamination may prevent the Bank 2 intake camshaft from advancing properly.
2. Incorrect Oil Viscosity
Oil that is too thick or too thin can interfere with phaser operation.
Oil that is too thick may:
- Flow slowly during cold starts
- Delay VVT response
- Prevent the camshaft from advancing quickly
- Cause sluggish phaser movement
Oil that is too thin may:
- Leak through worn internal passages
- Reduce hydraulic pressure
- Cause unstable phaser control
Use the manufacturer-specified oil viscosity and oil standard.
3. Low Engine-Oil Level
Low engine oil can reduce pressure available to the VVT system.
Low oil may be caused by:
- External leaks
- Excessive oil consumption
- Improper service
- Long oil-change intervals
- Internal engine wear
The system may not have enough hydraulic pressure to advance the Bank 2 intake camshaft.
4. Low Engine-Oil Pressure
The oil level may be correct while actual pressure remains too low.
Possible causes include:
- Worn oil pump
- Restricted oil pickup
- Excessive bearing clearance
- Internal oil leakage
- Clogged oil passages
- Failed pressure-control valve
- Damaged oil-pump drive
Low oil pressure may affect:
- VVT solenoids
- Camshaft phasers
- Timing-chain tensioners
- Camshaft timing stability
A mechanical oil-pressure test may be required.
5. Sticking Bank 2 Intake VVT Solenoid
The Bank 2 intake VVT solenoid regulates oil flow to the camshaft phaser.
If the solenoid sticks in the retarded or default position, the camshaft may fail to advance.
Possible causes include:
- Sludge
- Varnish
- Metal debris
- Internal wear
- Damaged spool valve
- Weak or broken spring
- Electrical malfunction
A solenoid may pass an electrical resistance test while still sticking mechanically.
6. Clogged VVT Solenoid Screen
Some VVT solenoids contain a filter screen.
The screen may become clogged with:
- Sludge
- Carbon
- Metal particles
- Gasket material
- Silicone sealant
- Oil-filter debris
A restricted screen may reduce oil flow to the advance side of the camshaft phaser.
7. Restricted VVT Oil Passages
Oil passages supplying the camshaft phaser may become restricted.
Possible causes include:
- Sludge
- Varnish
- Excessive gasket sealant
- Metal debris
- Damaged gasket
- Incorrect cylinder-head assembly
- Previous engine repairs
A restricted supply passage may prevent enough oil pressure from reaching the phaser.
8. Failed Bank 2 Intake Camshaft Phaser
The camshaft phaser may fail mechanically or hydraulically.
A failed phaser may:
- Stick in the retarded position
- Fail to advance
- Leak internally
- Respond slowly
- Develop excessive mechanical play
- Rattle during startup
- Fail to lock correctly
A worn phaser may require more oil pressure than the system can provide.
9. Stretched Timing Chain
A stretched timing chain may cause the camshaft to lag behind the crankshaft.
This makes timing-chain wear a common mechanical cause of over-retarded timing codes.
Common signs include:
- Startup rattling
- Extended cranking
- Poor acceleration
- Multiple camshaft timing codes
- Excessive tensioner extension
- Crankshaft-camshaft correlation codes
- Timing marks that no longer align
P0018 may appear together with P0022 when chain wear becomes severe.
10. Failed Timing-Chain Tensioner
A failed chain tensioner may allow excessive slack.
Possible failures include:
- Weak spring
- Internal hydraulic leakage
- Sludge blockage
- Mechanical collapse
- Loss of pressure after shutdown
- Excessive internal wear
Chain slack may allow the camshaft to remain retarded relative to the crankshaft.
A tensioner that drains down overnight often causes a startup rattle.
11. Worn or Broken Timing Guides
Timing-chain guides keep the chain aligned.
They may:
- Crack
- Wear through
- Break apart
- Separate from their mounts
- Allow chain slapping
Broken guide material may fall into the oil pan and restrict the oil pickup, creating both timing and oil-pressure problems.
12. Jumped Timing Chain or Belt
A timing chain or belt may jump one or more teeth.
Possible causes include:
- Severe chain stretch
- Failed tensioner
- Broken timing guide
- Missing belt teeth
- Oil contamination
- Incorrect installation
- Engine kickback during starting
A jumped timing system may cause:
- Severe rough running
- Low compression
- No-start condition
- Bent valves
- Damaged pistons
- Cylinder-head damage
13. Incorrect Mechanical Timing
P0022 may appear after:
- Timing-chain replacement
- Timing-belt replacement
- Camshaft replacement
- Camshaft-phaser replacement
- Cylinder-head repair
- Engine rebuilding
Possible mistakes include:
- Bank 2 intake camshaft installed one tooth retarded
- Incorrect timing-mark alignment
- Wrong marked-chain links
- Camshaft phaser installed incorrectly
- Tensioner released improperly
- Wrong locking-tool procedure
- Incorrect replacement parts
If P0022 appears after engine work, verify mechanical timing before replacing sensors or solenoids.
14. Faulty Camshaft Position Sensor
The Bank 2 intake camshaft position sensor may produce incorrect or intermittent data.
Possible sensor problems include:
- Weak signal
- Signal dropout
- Distorted waveform
- Heat-related failure
- Metal debris on the sensor
- Incorrect air gap
- Internal electrical failure
However, the sensor may be accurately reporting a real timing problem.
Do not replace it based only on P0022.
15. Shifted Camshaft Reluctor Wheel
The camshaft position sensor reads a reluctor or trigger wheel mounted on the camshaft or phaser.
The reluctor may become:
- Loose
- Bent
- Cracked
- Misaligned
- Shifted
- Damaged during previous repairs
A shifted reluctor may make the camshaft appear retarded even when the mechanical timing is correct.
16. Damaged Wiring or Connectors
Wiring faults may prevent the ECM from controlling the VVT solenoid correctly.
Inspect for:
- Broken wires
- Open circuits
- Short to ground
- Short to voltage
- Corroded terminals
- Loose connectors
- Oil contamination
- Heat damage
- Harness abrasion
- Poor previous repairs
An electrical fault may also store P0020.
17. Faulty ECM or PCM
ECM failure is uncommon but possible.
A failed ECM driver or control problem may:
- Fail to energize the VVT solenoid
- Produce an incorrect duty cycle
- Misinterpret camshaft-position data
- Prevent proper actuator control
Before replacing the ECM, verify:
- Oil level and pressure
- Solenoid operation
- Wiring integrity
- Camshaft sensor signal
- Camshaft phaser condition
- Mechanical timing
18. Incorrect Replacement Components
An incorrect replacement component may cause P0022.
Examples include:
- Wrong VVT solenoid
- Incorrect camshaft phaser
- Wrong timing chain
- Incorrect sprocket
- Nonmatching camshaft
- Low-quality aftermarket parts
A component may physically fit while having different hydraulic or timing characteristics.
Is P0022 an Electrical or Mechanical Code?
P0022 is primarily a camshaft timing-performance code.
It does not directly identify one failed electrical circuit.
The cause may be:
- Hydraulic
- Mechanical
- Electrical
- Software-related
P0022 differs from P0020, which primarily indicates an electrical fault in the Bank 2 intake camshaft actuator circuit.
P0022 means the camshaft’s actual position is more retarded than the ECM expects.
How Serious Is the P0022 Code?
P0022 ranges from moderately serious to severe.
The seriousness depends on the underlying cause.
A dirty VVT solenoid may cause poor performance without immediate engine damage.
A stretched or jumped timing chain can lead to catastrophic failure.
Ignoring P0022 may result in:
- Continued misfires
- Poor fuel economy
- Increased emissions
- Catalytic converter damage
- Timing-chain wear
- Timing-system failure
- Valve-to-piston contact
- Bent valves
- Damaged pistons
- Complete engine failure
The code is especially serious when accompanied by:
- Timing-chain rattle
- Low-oil-pressure warning
- P0018
- Severe misfires
- Flashing Check Engine Light
- Engine stalling
- A no-start condition
Can You Drive With P0022?
Limited driving may be possible if:
- The engine runs smoothly.
- No timing noise is present.
- The engine-oil level is correct.
- Oil pressure is normal.
- The Check Engine Light remains steady.
- The vehicle does not stall.
Continued driving is not recommended until the cause is identified.
Stop driving immediately if you notice:
- Loud timing-chain rattle
- Severe misfires
- Flashing Check Engine Light
- Sudden power loss
- Engine stalling
- Backfiring
- Low-oil-pressure warning
- Engine cranks but will not start
A mechanical timing problem may cause major engine damage without much additional warning.
How to Diagnose P0022
Step 1: Scan for Additional Codes
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for related codes.
Common companion codes include:
- P0008
- P0009
- P0018
- P0020
- P0021
- P0023
- P0024
- P0025
- Camshaft sensor codes
- Crankshaft sensor codes
- Misfire codes
- Oil-pressure codes
Record:
- Freeze-frame data
- Engine speed
- Engine load
- Coolant temperature
- Oil temperature
- Commanded camshaft angle
- Actual camshaft angle
- VVT solenoid duty cycle
- Battery voltage
Do not clear the codes before saving this information.
Step 2: Confirm Bank 2 and Camshaft A
Use vehicle-specific service information to identify:
- Bank 2
- Intake camshaft
- Camshaft A
- Bank 2 intake VVT solenoid
- Camshaft phaser
- Camshaft position sensor
Incorrect bank identification can lead to testing or replacing the wrong components.
Step 3: Check the Engine-Oil Level
Check the oil with the vehicle positioned according to manufacturer instructions.
Look for:
- Low oil level
- Overfilled crankcase
- Fuel dilution
- Coolant contamination
- Metallic particles
Correct the oil level before continuing.
An overfilled engine may aerate the oil and cause unstable VVT operation.
Step 4: Inspect Oil Condition and Viscosity
Determine whether the oil is:
- Dirty
- Sludged
- Too thick
- Too thin
- Incorrect for the engine
- Overdue for replacement
Perform an oil and filter change if necessary.
Use the exact manufacturer-specified viscosity and oil standard.
Step 5: Review Maintenance and Repair History
Determine:
- When the oil was last changed
- Whether the engine has been run low on oil
- Whether timing work was recently performed
- Whether the engine rattles during startup
- Whether the timing belt is overdue
- Whether the phaser or solenoid was recently replaced
- Whether excessive gasket sealant was used
P0022 appearing immediately after a repair often suggests incorrect mechanical timing or an installation problem.
Step 6: Inspect Wiring and Connectors
Inspect the Bank 2 intake VVT solenoid and camshaft-position sensor circuits.
Look for:
- Broken wires
- Chafed insulation
- Loose connectors
- Corrosion
- Bent pins
- Oil contamination
- Heat damage
- Harness abrasion
- Poor previous repairs
Repair electrical faults before condemning mechanical components.
Step 7: Test the Bank 2 Intake VVT Solenoid Electrically
Test the solenoid for:
- Resistance
- Power supply
- ECM control
- Short to ground
- Short to voltage
- Excessive circuit resistance
Compare all readings with manufacturer specifications.
A circuit fault may store P0020 together with P0022.
Step 8: Command the VVT Solenoid With a Scan Tool
Use a bidirectional scan tool when available.
Command the Bank 2 intake camshaft through its operating range.
Monitor:
- Commanded camshaft angle
- Actual camshaft angle
- Response time
- Solenoid duty cycle
- Engine idle quality
Possible results include:
- No response: Electrical fault, failed solenoid, blocked oil passage or failed phaser
- Slow response: Dirty oil, restricted passage or worn phaser
- Camshaft remains retarded: Sticking solenoid, low oil pressure, restricted supply or failed phaser
- Erratic response: Oil-pressure problem, sensor fault or mechanical wear
Step 9: Remove and Inspect the VVT Solenoid
Remove the Bank 2 intake VVT solenoid according to the service procedure.
Inspect for:
- Sludge
- Varnish
- Metal debris
- Clogged screens
- Damaged O-rings
- Sticking spool valve
- Physical damage
Clean or replace the solenoid as appropriate.
Do not use aggressive cleaning methods that may damage seals or coatings.
Step 10: Compare Bank 1 and Bank 2 Solenoids
If the intake VVT solenoids are identical, compare:
- Resistance
- Current draw
- Physical condition
- Scan-tool response
- Contamination
Some technicians temporarily swap identical solenoids between banks.
Only do this when:
- The part numbers match.
- The manufacturer permits it.
- The solenoids are clean.
- New seals are installed if required.
If the fault moves to Bank 1, the solenoid is likely defective.
Step 11: Monitor Camshaft Position Data
Compare:
- Commanded Bank 2 intake camshaft position
- Actual Bank 2 intake camshaft position
- Bank 1 intake camshaft position
- Camshaft phase error
- VVT solenoid duty cycle
If Bank 1 responds normally while Bank 2 remains retarded, suspect a Bank 2-specific problem.
Possible causes include:
- Bank 2 VVT solenoid
- Bank 2 oil passage
- Bank 2 camshaft phaser
- Bank 2 sensor
- Bank 2 mechanical timing
Step 12: Check Engine-Oil Pressure
Install a mechanical oil-pressure gauge if low pressure is suspected.
Measure pressure at:
- Cold idle
- Warm idle
- Increased engine speed
Compare results with factory specifications.
Do not assume oil pressure is normal because the dashboard warning light remains off.
Step 13: Test the Camshaft Position Sensor
Inspect and test the Bank 2 intake camshaft position sensor.
Depending on sensor type, test:
- Power supply
- Ground
- Signal voltage
- Signal frequency
- Waveform quality
- Circuit continuity
Use an oscilloscope when possible.
A distorted signal may make a correctly positioned camshaft appear retarded.
Step 14: Compare Camshaft and Crankshaft Waveforms
Use an oscilloscope to compare:
- Bank 2 intake camshaft signal
- Crankshaft position signal
Compare the waveform with known-good data.
This may reveal:
- Timing-chain stretch
- Incorrect mechanical timing
- Shifted reluctor wheel
- Sensor dropout
- Excessive camshaft movement
Step 15: Inspect the Camshaft Phaser
If the solenoid, wiring and oil pressure are correct, inspect the camshaft phaser.
Possible signs of phaser failure include:
- Startup rattle
- Failure to advance
- Excessive internal movement
- Internal oil leakage
- Slow response
- Camshaft stuck retarded
- Metal debris in the oil
- Repeated P0022 after solenoid replacement
Phaser replacement may require substantial engine disassembly.
Step 16: Verify Mechanical Timing
If scan data or waveform testing suggests a mechanical timing fault, verify timing alignment.
This may require removing:
- Valve covers
- Timing covers
- Front-engine accessories
- Engine mounts
- Camshaft access plugs
Position the engine at top dead center and inspect:
- Timing-chain alignment
- Timing-belt alignment
- Sprocket marks
- Chain tensioner extension
- Guide condition
- Camshaft phaser position
- Crankshaft alignment
- Bank 2 intake camshaft alignment
Use the required locking tools and manufacturer procedures.
Step 17: Inspect the Reluctor Wheel
If mechanical timing is correct but the code remains, inspect the camshaft reluctor.
Look for:
- Shifted position
- Cracks
- Bent targets
- Loose mounting
- Damage
- Incorrect installation
A shifted reluctor may require replacement of the camshaft or phaser.
Step 18: Check Technical Service Bulletins
Some vehicles have known P0022-related issues involving:
- Updated VVT solenoids
- Revised camshaft phasers
- Timing-chain stretch
- Oil-pressure concerns
- Restricted oil passages
- Updated oil specifications
- ECM software updates
- Revised repair procedures
Review manufacturer service information before performing major repairs.
Step 19: Verify the Repair
After completing repairs:
- Clear all stored codes.
- Start the engine from cold.
- Listen for timing-system noise.
- Monitor commanded and actual camshaft position.
- Command the VVT system with a scan tool.
- Check for oil leaks.
- Complete the manufacturer’s drive cycle.
- Rescan for pending codes.
A successful repair should restore proper Bank 2 intake camshaft control and prevent P0022 from returning.
Common P0022 Repairs and Costs
| Repair | Estimated cost |
| Diagnostic inspection | $100–$300 |
| Engine oil and filter change | $60–$180 |
| Clean VVT solenoid or screen | $100–$250 |
| Repair VVT wiring | $100–$600 |
| Replace Bank 2 intake VVT solenoid | $150–$500 |
| Replace camshaft position sensor | $150–$450 |
| Clean restricted oil passages | $200–$800 |
| Replace Bank 2 intake camshaft phaser | $600–$1,800 |
| Replace timing-belt kit | $700–$2,000 |
| 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 costs vary according to:
- Engine design
- Component accessibility
- Number of timing chains
- Whether the engine must be removed
- Whether both banks require repair
- Whether internal engine damage occurred
Common Diagnostic Mistakes
Replacing the Camshaft Position Sensor First
P0022 does not automatically mean the camshaft position sensor has failed.
The sensor may be correctly reporting that the camshaft is over-retarded.
Confusing P0022 With P0020
P0020 is an actuator electrical-circuit code.
P0022 means the actual camshaft timing is more retarded than expected.
Confusing P0022 With P0021
P0021 indicates over-advanced timing.
P0022 indicates over-retarded timing.
Replacing the VVT Solenoid Without Checking the Oil
Dirty, low or incorrect oil can cause the same symptoms as a failed solenoid.
Always inspect the oil first.
Assuming an Oil Change Will Repair Mechanical Wear
Fresh oil may help a sticking solenoid.
It cannot repair:
- A stretched timing chain
- Failed camshaft phaser
- Broken timing guide
- Jumped timing belt
- Shifted reluctor
- Incorrect mechanical timing
Confusing Bank 1 and Bank 2
Bank 1 contains cylinder number one.
Bank 2 is the opposite bank.
Testing the wrong bank may lead to unnecessary parts replacement.
Confusing Camshaft A and Camshaft B
Camshaft A usually refers to the intake camshaft.
Camshaft B usually refers to the exhaust camshaft.
Confirm the designation before repairs.
Ignoring Startup Rattle
Startup rattling may indicate:
- Timing-chain slack
- Failed tensioner
- Worn guides
- Failed camshaft phaser
Ignoring the noise may lead to major engine damage.
Skipping Oil-Pressure Testing
A correct oil level does not guarantee correct pressure.
Low oil pressure can prevent the phaser from advancing.
Failing to Compare Both Banks
Comparing Bank 1 and Bank 2 operation can show whether the fault is localized or system-wide.
Replacing the ECM Too Early
ECM failure is uncommon compared with:
- Oil contamination
- VVT solenoid failure
- Camshaft phaser failure
- Timing-chain wear
- Wiring faults
- Incorrect mechanical timing
Verify the complete system before replacing the module.
Vehicles Commonly Affected by P0022
P0022 may appear on OBD-II vehicles equipped with multiple cylinder banks and intake variable valve timing.
Potentially affected manufacturers include:
- Ford
- Lincoln
- Chevrolet
- GMC
- Buick
- Cadillac
- Chrysler
- Dodge
- Jeep
- Toyota
- Lexus
- Nissan
- Infiniti
- Hyundai
- Kia
- BMW
- Mini
- Mercedes-Benz
- Volkswagen
- Audi
- Porsche
- Subaru
- Volvo
- Mitsubishi
P0022 is commonly associated with engines using:
- V6 or V8 layouts
- Dual-overhead camshafts
- Hydraulic timing-chain tensioners
- Intake camshaft phasers
- Oil-controlled VVT solenoids
- Separate camshaft sensors for each bank
The code alone does not prove that a particular model has a known defect.
Diagnosis must be based on the exact:
- Year
- Make
- Model
- Engine
- Maintenance history
- Repair history
How to Prevent P0022
Helpful preventive measures include:
- Check the engine oil regularly.
- Use the manufacturer-specified oil viscosity.
- Change the oil and filter on schedule.
- Avoid extended oil-change intervals.
- Use a quality oil filter.
- Repair oil leaks promptly.
- Investigate excessive oil consumption.
- Address startup rattles immediately.
- Diagnose low-oil-pressure warnings promptly.
- Replace timing belts at the required interval.
- Use correct timing tools during repairs.
- Keep VVT oil passages free of excess sealant.
- Replace damaged connectors and wiring.
- Use the correct VVT solenoid and camshaft phaser.
- Verify all timing marks after engine repairs.
Good oil maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent camshaft-timing and VVT problems.
Frequently Asked Questions About P0022
What does code P0022 mean?
P0022 means the Bank 2 intake camshaft is more retarded than commanded or is failing to advance to its requested position.
Is Camshaft A the intake camshaft?
On most engines, yes.
Camshaft 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 location varies by engine design.
Is P0022 an electrical code?
Not primarily.
P0022 is a camshaft timing-performance code. The underlying cause may still be electrical, hydraulic or mechanical.
What is the difference between P0020 and P0022?
P0020 identifies an electrical fault in the Bank 2 intake camshaft actuator circuit.
P0022 means the Bank 2 intake camshaft is too retarded or not advancing correctly.
What is the difference between P0021 and P0022?
P0021 indicates over-advanced camshaft timing.
P0022 indicates over-retarded camshaft timing.
Can dirty oil cause P0022?
Yes. Dirty oil can clog the VVT solenoid, camshaft phaser or oil passages.
Can low oil cause P0022?
Yes. Low oil may prevent enough hydraulic pressure from reaching the camshaft phaser.
Can the wrong oil viscosity cause P0022?
Yes. Incorrect oil viscosity can slow camshaft-phaser response.
Can a bad VVT solenoid cause P0022?
Yes. A sticking Bank 2 intake VVT solenoid is a common cause.
Can a bad camshaft phaser cause P0022?
Yes. A failed phaser may remain stuck in a retarded position or fail to advance.
Can a stretched timing chain cause P0022?
Yes. Chain wear often causes the camshaft to lag behind the crankshaft.
Can a bad camshaft sensor cause P0022?
Yes, but it is less common than oil, VVT solenoid, phaser or mechanical timing problems.
Test the sensor before replacing it.
Can P0022 cause rough idle?
Yes. Incorrect intake camshaft timing may cause rough idle, misfires and hesitation.
Can P0022 cause poor acceleration?
Yes. A retarded intake camshaft may reduce cylinder filling and low-speed torque.
Can P0022 cause hard starting?
Yes. Incorrect valve timing may cause extended cranking or hard starting.
Can P0022 cause a no-start condition?
Yes, especially if the timing chain or timing belt has jumped significantly.
Can I drive with P0022?
Limited driving may be possible if the engine runs normally and makes no unusual noise.
Prompt diagnosis is recommended because the code may indicate a serious timing-system problem.
Will an oil change fix P0022?
It may help if dirty or incorrect oil is causing a sticking VVT solenoid.
It will not repair a failed phaser, stretched chain, jumped belt or incorrect mechanical timing.
How much does it cost to fix P0022?
An oil service may cost under $200.
A VVT solenoid replacement commonly costs $150 to $500.
Camshaft-phaser or timing-chain repairs may cost $600 to $4,000 or more.
Will clearing P0022 fix the vehicle?
No. Clearing the code only removes the warning temporarily.
The code will return if the camshaft timing problem remains.
Will P0022 fail an emissions test?
Yes. An active Check Engine Light or emissions-related powertrain code will generally cause an OBD-based inspection failure.
Final Thoughts
The P0022 code means the Bank 2 intake camshaft is over-retarded or is failing to follow the ECM’s commanded position.
The most common causes include:
- Dirty or incorrect engine oil
- Low engine-oil level
- Low engine-oil pressure
- A sticking Bank 2 intake VVT solenoid
- Restricted oil passages
- A failed intake camshaft phaser
- A stretched or jumped timing chain
- Incorrect mechanical timing
- A faulty camshaft position sensor
- A shifted reluctor wheel
- Damaged wiring or connectors
Begin diagnosis by checking the oil level, condition and viscosity. Confirm Bank 2 and Camshaft A before inspecting the VVT solenoid and wiring.
Use a capable scan tool to compare commanded and actual camshaft position. If the camshaft remains retarded, inspect the solenoid, oil passages, oil pressure, camshaft phaser and mechanical timing.
Do not assume P0022 is simply caused by a bad sensor. The code may indicate timing-chain wear or another mechanical problem capable of causing severe engine damage.
For more diagnostic guides, browse our growing OBD-II libraries:
- Complete OBD-II Code Library: https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-obdii/
- Body (B) Codes: https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-doctor/b-code-obd-ii-codes/
- Chassis (C) Codes: https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-doctor/c-code-obd-ii-codes/
Related Articles
- P0012 Code Explained: “A” Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
- P0018 Code Explained: Crankshaft Position–Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor A
- P0020 Code Explained: “A” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit Bank 2
- P0021 Code Explained: “A” Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 2
- P0023 Code Explained: “B” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit Bank 2
- P0025 Code Explained: “B” Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 2
