Fix P000D: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The OBD2 code P000D is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates a slow response from the bank 2 camshaft position sensor in relation to the engine’s timing. This code suggests that the engine control module (ECM) detected a sluggish response in the camshaft position when compared to its expected position. It can affect the engine’s performance, including its ability to start, its power output, and fuel efficiency, making it a significant concern for vehicle owners.

P000D quick overview

Meaning	P000D: Engine Position System Performance – Bank 2
Is it serious?	Yes, it can affect engine performance and fuel efficiency, potentially leading to more serious engine damage if not addressed.
Possible causes	– Dirty or low engine oil – Faulty camshaft position sensor – Stretched timing chain – Worn camshaft phasers – Incorrectly installed or faulty camshaft
How to diagnose?	Check engine oil level and quality, replacing if dirty or low. Inspect the camshaft position sensor and wiring for damage. Examine the timing chain for wear or stretching. Assess camshaft phasers for proper operation. Verify camshaft installation for correctness.

How to fix P000D – learn from mechanics

I looked into P000D service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.

Case #1: Chrysler

Vehicle information 2011 Chrysler Town & Country Touring L 3.6L

Issue + repair history

• Initial complaint of misfire on start-up after prolonged vehicle rest periods.
• Codes: P000D and P0018.
• Cam/crank sensors swapped, but no change in codes or misfire.
• Utilized cleaning function through Modis, resulting in the disappearance of misfire and code P000D.
• Code P0018 persists, returning 60 seconds after clearing.
• Exhaust and intake cam positions deemed accurate.
• “Cam Sync State” indicates synchronization.
• Reading shows “Exhaust Cam 1 / Crank difference -2.7.”

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• OBD2 Codes: P000D (Engine Position System Performance – Bank 2), P0018 (Camshaft / Crankshaft Misalignment Bank 2 Sensor 1)

Mechanic suggestions

• Technician 1: Advises manual inspection for camshaft alignment using line-up tools, and checks for camshaft damage due to failing lifters or rocker arms, and faulty idle pulleys.
• Technician 2: Suggests inspecting phasers and control valve, with specific emphasis on checking the lock pin inside the phaser to ensure engagement.
• Technician 3: Recommends checking VVT solenoid for potential malfunction, citing common problems associated with stuck solenoids.
• Technician 4: Proposes the possibility of a stretched timing chain.

Final fix

• Misfire resolved through cleaning function via Modis.
• Code P0018 remains unresolved.
• Customer satisfied with misfire resolution, plans to return for remaining work.

Case #2: Audi

Vehicle information 2008 Audi S6 5.2L

Issue + repair history

• MIL on for P0014 code (B1 cam position timing over advanced or system performance).
• Rough running and noise on cold engine, clears after 1 min.
• Bank 2 cam position slow response code triggered after swapping bank 1 exhaust cam solenoid with intake.
• Customer hesitant to invest in expensive repairs.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• OBD2 Codes:
  • P0014 – B1 cam position timing over advanced or system performance
  • P000D – Cam position slow response bank 2

Mechanic suggestions

• Technician 1: Recommends performing an oil change/engine flush with a product like BG109 to address potential internal engine dirt and sludge buildup.
• Technician 2: Mentions potential chain and actuator issues if the engine is dirty inside.

Final fix

• Attempted engine flush, initially skeptical of its effectiveness.
• Not willing to invest $4000, exploring low-cost options.
• Mechanic can hear timing chain sounds, but customer not willing to replace them right now

Case #3: Chrysler

Vehicle Information:

• 2014 Chrysler Town & Country Touring 3.6L

Issue + Repair History:

• Loud ticking noise initially led to the discovery of a bad intake camshaft at bank 2.
• Replaced camshaft, rocker arms, lifters, and timing chain kit.
• Post-repair, the check engine light (CEL) illuminated with a P06DD code (Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Stuck Off).
• Investigation revealed low oil pressure due to a malfunctioning oil pump.
• Replaced oil pump, but subsequent drives triggered various codes related to camshaft position sensors and oil pressure.

OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P06DD – Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Stuck Off
• P000D – Bank 2 Camshaft 2 Position Slow Response
• P0394 – Bank 2 Camshaft Position Sensor 2/2 Circuit Intermittent
• P0390 – Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 2
• Oil pressure at idle: 5-6 psi; at high speed: around 45 psi

Mechanic Suggestions:

• Recommends considering a complete engine replacement with warranty.
• Suggests checking for loose or missing oil gallery plugs on the front of the cylinder heads.
• Comments on potential internal engine damage from worn cam lobes and debris, advises against adding valve grinding compound to oil.
• Highlights the importance of tight oil gallery bolts and suggests replacing cam hubs if they are loose.
• Attributes the issues to low oil pressure causing worn bearings from camshaft debris.
• Suggests checking if the correct oil filter is being used.
• Emphasizes the need to check oil gallery bolts beneath the camshaft phasers, which could be loose or missing.
• Specifies normal oil pressure ranges and recommends considering engine replacement due to low pressure.
• Advocates for engine replacement given the mileage and extent of issues.

Final Resolution: The issue persisted despite multiple attempts at repair, including oil pump replacement and other component checks. The customer declined further repairs due to cost concerns and opted to continue driving the vehicle until it failed.

Diagnostic Step	Explanation
Check engine oil level and quality	Ensure oil is clean and at the proper level as dirty or low oil can cause timing issues.
Inspect the camshaft position sensor	Look for damage or disconnections that could impair its function.
Examine the timing chain	Check for signs of wear or stretching which can affect engine timing.
Assess camshaft phasers	Ensure they are operating correctly and efficiently managing the timing of the camshafts.
Verify camshaft installation	Confirm that the camshaft is correctly installed and timed as per manufacturer specifications.

In the service cases reviewed, P000D was a symptom of underlying issues ranging from the need for simple maintenance like an engine flush to more severe problems requiring camshaft or timing chain replacement. These cases highlight the importance of regular maintenance and timely diagnostics to prevent or address slow response issues in engine position systems, ensuring smooth and efficient engine operation.