P0022🔧 Engine / variable valve timingStop and fix promptly

P0022: "A" Camshaft Timing Over-Retarded, Bank 2 (Meaning, Causes, Fixes)

Reviewed 2026-10-23 · Based on 2 cited source(s)

What P0022 means

Many modern engines use variable valve timing (VVT, also called VCT) to shift the camshaft for better power and efficiency. The engine computer (PCM/ECM) compares the camshaft position sensor signal with the crankshaft signal to check that the cam is where it should be. OBD-Codes.com says P0022 sets when the cam timing is over-retarded. RepairPal describes it more broadly: the PCM sets P0022 when the camshaft is not in the proper position relative to the crankshaft. Bank 2 is the side of a V6 or V8 engine that does not have cylinder 1, so inline four-cylinder engines don't set P0022. The 'A' camshaft is the intake, left or front camshaft (OBD-Codes.com). P0021 is the over-advanced version of this code, P0020 is the circuit code for the same camshaft, and P0012 is the bank 1 equivalent. The two sources differ in a few ways. RepairPal's code name leaves out the bank, while OBD-Codes.com names it Bank 2. RepairPal puts low or incorrect engine oil among the causes and lists an oil and filter change as the common repair, while OBD-Codes.com doesn't mention oil level and instead says the main thing to check is a VCT solenoid that is sticking or stuck from contamination.

Severity: can I keep driving?

Stop and fix promptly

Get it diagnosed promptly. RepairPal rates P0022 Urgent, meaning it can lead to significant problems and should be checked right away. OBD-Codes.com gives no formal rating but says the code most likely brings hard starting, poor idle and/or stalling. Cam timing that is out of place can also point to low or wrong engine oil or a worn timing chain, so check the oil level before driving far.

Common symptoms

Likely causes

Roughly most to least common, based on the sources below. Your vehicle may differ.

  1. Engine oil level too low, or oil that doesn't meet the manufacturer's requirements (RepairPal)
  2. Failed or sticking camshaft variable timing solenoid, for example stuck open or contaminated (both sources)
  3. Variable valve timing actuator failure, or continuous oil flow to the VCT piston chamber (RepairPal; OBD-Codes.com)
  4. Incorrect camshaft timing or a worn timing chain (both sources)
  5. Wiring problems in the intake timing control solenoid circuit (OBD-Codes.com)

Diagnostic steps you can do

⚠ Before you start

Work on a cool engine, parked on level ground with the parking brake set. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.

  1. Read all stored codes and freeze-frame data. If P0022 shows up with bank 1 cam timing codes such as P0012, or with cam or crank correlation codes, note them all before replacing parts.
  2. Check the engine oil level and condition and confirm it is the grade the manufacturer specifies. RepairPal lists low or incorrect oil as causes and an oil and filter change as the common repair.
  3. Inspect the bank 2 VVT/VCT solenoid connector and wiring for damage, oil in the connector or loose pins.
  4. Clear the code after any oil service and see whether it returns before buying parts.

Typical fixes

Repair costs vary widely by vehicle, region, parts brand and shop, so we don't quote prices. Get a written estimate after diagnosis.

🛠 When to call a pro

  • The oil is correct and full but the code keeps coming back
  • The VCT unit needs component tests from the vehicle-specific repair manual or with a scan tool, which OBD-Codes.com says dealer techs can do
  • The engine rattles at startup, runs badly or stalls
  • Cam timing or the timing chain needs to be checked, which usually means opening up the front of the engine

Where to buy

Plain search links. Always match parts to your exact year, make, model and engine.

OBD2 scanners on Amazon Parts at Advance Auto Parts catalog at RockAuto

FAQs

Can I drive with P0022?

Only gently and get it checked soon. RepairPal rates P0022 Urgent, and OBD-Codes.com says it can cause hard starting, poor idle or stalling.

Can an oil change fix P0022?

Sometimes. RepairPal lists low oil and oil that doesn't meet the manufacturer's spec as causes and an oil and filter change as the common repair, because the timing system runs on oil pressure. If the code returns, the solenoid, actuator or timing chain need checking.

What's the difference between P0022 and P0021?

Both are bank 2 'A' camshaft timing codes. P0022 means the timing is over-retarded (too late) and P0021 means it is over-advanced or not performing as expected.

Why does my four-cylinder not have bank 2?

Bank 2 only exists on engines with two cylinder banks, such as V6 and V8 engines. Inline engines have a single bank, so they use the bank 1 codes like P0012.

How much does it cost to fix P0022?

Neither source gives a repair cost for P0022. It ranges from an oil change to a new timing solenoid or a timing chain job, so get it diagnosed first.

Sources

  1. OBD-Codes.com: P0022 "A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 2)
  2. RepairPal: P0022 "A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded (rated Urgent)

Last reviewed 2026-10-23. Code definitions and repair steps can vary by manufacturer. Confirm with your vehicle's service information.