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P0024 Code Explained: “B” Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 2 Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

OBD-II scanner displaying P0024 beside a Bank 2 exhaust camshaft phaser, VVT solenoid, advanced timing graphic and illuminated Check Engine Light

If your OBD-II scanner displays P0024, your vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected that the Bank 2 “B” camshaft is more advanced than commanded or remains advanced when it should return to its expected position.

On most dual-overhead-cam engines, Camshaft 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.

Modern engines use variable valve timing to adjust exhaust camshaft position according to engine speed, load, temperature, throttle position and emissions requirements. When the ECM commands a specific Bank 2 exhaust camshaft angle but detects that the camshaft is too far advanced, it stores P0024.

P0024 is commonly caused by:

P0024 should not be ignored. Although some vehicles may continue running with only a Check Engine Light, an over-advanced exhaust camshaft can cause rough idle, poor performance, hard starting, misfires, increased emissions and possible internal engine damage.

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P0024 Quick Facts

ItemInformation
OBD-II codeP0024
Official description“B” Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 2
CategoryPowertrain
SystemVariable valve timing
Code typeGeneric SAE powertrain code
SeverityModerate to high
Safe to drive?Limited driving only; diagnose promptly
Most common causesDirty oil, sticking VVT solenoid, failed phaser, timing-chain wear
Typical repair cost$60–$4,000+

What Does the P0024 Code Mean?

P0024 means “‘B’ Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 2.”

The ECM commanded the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft to a specific position but detected that the camshaft:

The ECM determines camshaft position by comparing signals from the:

The ECM also monitors the electrical command sent to the Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid.

When the actual camshaft angle does not match the commanded angle, P0024 may be stored.

P0024 is closely related to:

What Does Camshaft B Mean?

On most dual-overhead-cam engines:

The exhaust camshaft controls when the exhaust valves open and close.

Adjusting exhaust camshaft timing can improve:

Excessive exhaust camshaft advance may cause the exhaust valves to open too early or close too early.

This can reduce engine efficiency and create drivability problems.

Manufacturer terminology varies, so verify Camshaft B 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 more than one cylinder bank, including:

Inline engines normally have only Bank 1 and should not store a true Bank 2 camshaft code.

Bank 2 may be located on either side of the vehicle depending on the engine design.

Confirm Bank 2 using:

Do not assume Bank 2 is always on the driver side or passenger side.

What Does Over-Advanced Exhaust Camshaft Timing Mean?

Camshaft timing is considered advanced when the camshaft rotates ahead of its normal base position relative to the crankshaft.

The ECM intentionally advances and retards exhaust camshaft timing during normal operation.

P0024 does not mean that all camshaft advance is abnormal. It means the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft is:

The fault may be:

How Exhaust Variable Valve Timing Works

A typical exhaust variable valve timing system includes:

The system operates as follows:

  1. The ECM calculates the desired exhaust camshaft angle.
  2. The ECM commands the Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid.
  3. The solenoid routes pressurized oil into the camshaft phaser.
  4. The phaser rotates the exhaust camshaft relative to the timing sprocket.
  5. The exhaust camshaft position sensor reports the actual angle.
  6. The ECM changes the solenoid duty cycle to maintain the requested position.

If oil remains trapped in the phaser’s advance chamber, the exhaust camshaft may remain over-advanced.

This may happen because of:

How the ECM Detects P0024

The ECM compares:

P0024 may be stored when:

Some vehicles require the fault to occur for several seconds.

Others may detect the problem during:

Symptoms of the P0024 Code

Symptoms depend on how far the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft is advanced and whether the problem is intermittent.

Common symptoms include:

Some vehicles may show no noticeable symptoms beyond the Check Engine Light.

If the camshaft remains severely advanced, the engine may run poorly or fail to start.

Common Causes of P0024

1. Dirty Engine Oil

Dirty oil is one of the most common causes of variable valve timing problems.

Contaminated oil can create:

The VVT system depends on clean oil flowing through small, precisely controlled passages.

Even moderate contamination can prevent the exhaust camshaft from returning to the correct position.

2. Incorrect Oil Viscosity

Oil that is too thick or too thin may interfere with camshaft-phaser control.

Oil that is too thick may:

Oil that is too thin may:

Always 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 result from:

A low oil level may affect both banks, but the Bank 2 exhaust system may set a code first if its components are more restricted or worn.

4. Low or Unstable Engine-Oil Pressure

The oil level may be correct while actual oil pressure remains too low or unstable.

Possible causes include:

Incorrect oil pressure can affect:

A mechanical oil-pressure test may be necessary.

5. Sticking Bank 2 Exhaust VVT Solenoid

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

If the solenoid sticks in the advance position, the exhaust camshaft may remain over-advanced.

Possible causes include:

A solenoid may test correctly for resistance while remaining mechanically stuck.

6. Clogged VVT Solenoid Screen

Some VVT solenoids include a small filter screen.

The screen may become clogged with:

A restricted screen may disturb oil flow and prevent the phaser from returning to its commanded position.

7. Restricted Oil Return Passage

The phaser must release oil from one chamber as pressure is applied to the other.

If a return passage is restricted, oil may remain trapped in the advance chamber.

Possible causes include:

A blocked return passage can keep the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft advanced even when the ECM commands retard.

8. Failed Bank 2 Exhaust Camshaft Phaser

The exhaust camshaft phaser may fail mechanically or hydraulically.

A failed phaser may:

A worn phaser locking pin may allow the camshaft to remain advanced during startup.

9. Stretched Timing Chain

A stretched timing chain alters the relationship between the crankshaft and camshaft.

Although chain wear often causes retarded timing or correlation codes, some engine-management systems may interpret the resulting camshaft movement as an over-advanced performance fault.

Common signs include:

10. Failed Timing-Chain Tensioner

A failed chain tensioner may allow excessive chain slack.

Possible failures include:

Chain movement may cause inconsistent camshaft position and VVT performance codes.

11. 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, creating both timing and oil-pressure problems.

12. Jumped Timing Chain or Belt

A timing chain or belt that jumps one or more teeth may place the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft outside its expected range.

Possible causes include:

A severely jumped timing system may cause:

13. Incorrect Mechanical Timing

P0024 may appear after:

Possible mistakes include:

If P0024 appears immediately after timing work, verify mechanical timing before replacing sensors or solenoids.

14. Faulty Exhaust Camshaft Position Sensor

The Bank 2 exhaust camshaft position sensor may provide inaccurate or intermittent data.

Possible sensor problems include:

However, the sensor may be accurately reporting a real camshaft-timing problem.

Do not replace it solely because P0024 is stored.

15. Shifted Camshaft Reluctor Wheel

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

The reluctor may become:

A shifted reluctor can make the exhaust camshaft appear advanced even when mechanical timing is correct.

16. Damaged Wiring or Connectors

Wiring faults may prevent the ECM from controlling the exhaust VVT solenoid correctly.

Inspect for:

An electrical actuator fault may also store P0023.

17. Faulty ECM or PCM

ECM failure is uncommon but possible.

A damaged internal driver or software problem may:

Before replacing the ECM, verify:

18. Incorrect Replacement Components

Incorrect replacement parts may cause P0024.

Examples include:

A part may physically fit while having different hydraulic, electrical or timing characteristics.

Is P0024 an Electrical or Mechanical Code?

P0024 is primarily a camshaft timing-performance code.

It does not directly identify a single failed circuit or component.

The underlying cause may be:

This differs from P0023, which primarily identifies an electrical fault in the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft actuator circuit.

P0024 means the actual exhaust camshaft position is more advanced than the ECM expects.

How Serious Is the P0024 Code?

P0024 ranges from moderately serious to severe.

The seriousness depends on the underlying cause.

A sticking VVT solenoid may cause drivability problems without immediate internal damage.

A jumped timing chain may lead to catastrophic engine failure.

Ignoring P0024 may result in:

The code is especially serious when accompanied by:

Can You Drive With P0024?

Limited driving may be possible if:

Continued driving is not recommended until the cause is identified.

Stop driving immediately if you notice:

A mechanical timing problem may cause severe engine damage with little additional warning.

How to Diagnose P0024

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: Confirm Bank 2 and Camshaft B

Use vehicle-specific service information to identify:

Incorrect bank or camshaft 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:

Correct the oil level before continuing.

An overfilled crankcase may aerate the oil and cause unstable VVT operation.

Step 4: Inspect Oil Condition and Viscosity

Determine whether the oil is:

Perform an oil and filter change if necessary.

Use the exact manufacturer-specified viscosity and oil specification.

Step 5: Review Maintenance and Repair History

Determine:

P0024 appearing immediately after repair often suggests incorrect mechanical timing or an installation problem.

Step 6: Inspect Wiring and Connectors

Inspect the Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid and camshaft-position sensor circuits.

Look for:

Repair electrical faults before condemning hydraulic or mechanical components.

Step 7: Test the Bank 2 Exhaust VVT Solenoid Electrically

Test the solenoid for:

Compare all readings with manufacturer specifications.

An actuator-circuit fault may store P0023 along with P0024.

Step 8: Command the VVT Solenoid With a Scan Tool

Use a bidirectional scan tool when available.

Command the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft through its operating range.

Monitor:

Possible results include:

Step 9: Remove and Inspect the VVT Solenoid

Remove the Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid according to the service procedure.

Inspect for:

Clean or replace the solenoid as appropriate.

Do not use aggressive chemicals that may damage internal seals or coatings.

Step 10: Compare Bank 1 and Bank 2 Solenoids

If the exhaust VVT solenoids are identical, compare:

Some technicians temporarily swap identical solenoids between banks.

Only do this when:

If the fault moves to Bank 1, the solenoid is likely defective.

Step 11: Monitor Camshaft Position Data

Compare:

If Bank 1 responds normally while Bank 2 remains advanced, suspect a Bank 2-specific problem.

Possible causes include:

Step 12: Check Engine-Oil Pressure

Install a mechanical oil-pressure gauge if pressure problems are suspected.

Measure pressure at:

Compare the readings with factory specifications.

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

Step 13: Test the Exhaust Camshaft Position Sensor

Inspect and test the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft position sensor.

Depending on sensor type, test:

Use an oscilloscope when possible.

A distorted signal can make a correctly positioned camshaft appear over-advanced.

Step 14: Compare Camshaft and Crankshaft Waveforms

Use an oscilloscope to compare:

Compare the waveform with known-good data.

This may reveal:

Step 15: Inspect the Exhaust Camshaft Phaser

If the solenoid, wiring and oil pressure are correct, inspect the exhaust camshaft phaser.

Possible signs of phaser failure include:

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:

Position the engine at top dead center and inspect:

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 exhaust camshaft reluctor wheel.

Look for:

A shifted reluctor may require replacement of the camshaft or phaser.

Step 18: Check Technical Service Bulletins

Some vehicles have known P0024-related issues involving:

Review manufacturer service information before beginning major repairs.

Step 19: Verify the Repair

After completing repairs:

  1. Clear all stored codes.
  2. Start the engine from cold.
  3. Listen for timing-system noise.
  4. Monitor commanded and actual exhaust camshaft position.
  5. Command the VVT system with a scan tool.
  6. Check for oil leaks.
  7. Complete the manufacturer’s drive cycle.
  8. Rescan for pending codes.

A successful repair should restore proper Bank 2 exhaust camshaft control and prevent P0024 from returning.

Common P0024 Repairs and Costs

RepairEstimated 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 exhaust VVT solenoid$150–$500
Replace exhaust camshaft position sensor$150–$450
Clean restricted oil passages$200–$800
Replace Bank 2 exhaust 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:

Common Diagnostic Mistakes

Replacing the Camshaft Position Sensor First

P0024 does not automatically mean the exhaust camshaft position sensor has failed.

The sensor may be accurately reporting that the camshaft is over-advanced.

Confusing P0024 With P0023

P0023 is an actuator electrical-circuit code.

P0024 indicates that the actual Bank 2 exhaust camshaft timing is over-advanced or outside the expected range.

Confusing P0024 With P0025

P0024 means over-advanced timing.

P0025 means 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:

Confusing Bank 1 and Bank 2

Bank 1 contains cylinder number one.

Bank 2 is the opposite bank.

Testing the wrong bank can 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 correct component before repairs.

Ignoring Startup Rattle

Startup rattling may indicate:

Ignoring the noise may lead to major engine damage.

Skipping Oil-Pressure Testing

A correct oil level does not guarantee adequate oil pressure.

Incorrect pressure can prevent the phaser from returning to its commanded position.

Failing to Compare Both Banks

Comparing Bank 1 and Bank 2 exhaust camshaft operation can show whether the fault is localized or system-wide.

Replacing the ECM Too Early

ECM failure is uncommon compared with:

Verify the complete system first.

Vehicles Commonly Affected by P0024

P0024 may appear on OBD-II vehicles equipped with multiple cylinder banks and exhaust variable valve timing.

Potentially affected manufacturers include:

P0024 is commonly associated with engines using:

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

Diagnosis must be based on the exact:

How to Prevent P0024

Helpful preventive measures include:

Good oil maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent exhaust camshaft timing and VVT problems.

Frequently Asked Questions About P0024

What does code P0024 mean?

P0024 means the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft is more advanced than commanded or is not returning to its expected position.

Is Camshaft B the exhaust camshaft?

On most engines, yes.

Camshaft B usually refers to the exhaust 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.

Is P0024 an electrical code?

Not primarily.

P0024 is a camshaft timing-performance code. The underlying cause may still be electrical, hydraulic or mechanical.

What is the difference between P0023 and P0024?

P0023 identifies an electrical fault in the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft actuator circuit.

P0024 means the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft is over-advanced or not responding correctly.

What is the difference between P0024 and P0025?

P0024 indicates over-advanced exhaust camshaft timing.

P0025 indicates over-retarded exhaust camshaft timing.

Can dirty oil cause P0024?

Yes. Dirty oil can clog the VVT solenoid, phaser or oil passages.

Can low oil cause P0024?

Yes. Low oil can reduce hydraulic control of the exhaust VVT system.

Can the wrong oil viscosity cause P0024?

Yes. Incorrect viscosity may slow or destabilize camshaft-phaser movement.

Can a bad VVT solenoid cause P0024?

Yes. A sticking Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid is a common cause.

Can a bad camshaft phaser cause P0024?

Yes. A failed exhaust camshaft phaser may remain stuck in an advanced position.

Can a stretched timing chain cause P0024?

Yes. Timing-chain wear may alter the camshaft’s position and trigger performance or correlation codes.

Can a bad camshaft sensor cause P0024?

Yes, but it is less common than oil, VVT solenoid, phaser or mechanical timing problems.

Test the sensor before replacement.

Can P0024 cause rough idle?

Yes. Excessive exhaust camshaft advance can cause rough idle, misfires and unstable combustion.

Can P0024 cause poor acceleration?

Yes. Incorrect exhaust valve timing may reduce torque, throttle response and high-RPM performance.

Can P0024 cause hard starting?

Yes. Incorrect valve timing may cause extended cranking or hard starting.

Can P0024 cause a no-start condition?

Yes, especially if the timing chain or timing belt has jumped significantly.

Can I drive with P0024?

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 P0024?

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 P0024?

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 P0024 fix the vehicle?

No. Clearing the code only removes the warning temporarily.

The code will return if the exhaust camshaft timing problem remains.

Will P0024 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 P0024 code means the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft is over-advanced or is not following the ECM’s commanded position.

The most common causes include:

Begin diagnosis by checking the oil level, condition and viscosity. Confirm Bank 2 and Camshaft B before inspecting the exhaust VVT solenoid and wiring.

Use a capable scan tool to compare commanded and actual exhaust camshaft position. If the camshaft remains advanced, inspect the solenoid, oil passages, oil pressure, camshaft phaser and mechanical timing.

Do not assume P0024 is simply caused by a failed sensor. The code may indicate timing-chain wear or another mechanical problem capable of causing severe engine damage.

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