Fix P0019: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The OBD2 code P0019 refers to “Crankshaft Position – Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor B).” This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) signals an issue with the timing between the crankshaft and the camshaft position on engine bank 2. Essentially, the engine’s control module has detected that the camshaft position is not as expected relative to the crankshaft, indicating a possible timing issue that can affect engine performance.

P0019 quick overview

Meaning	P0019: Crankshaft Position – Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor B)
Is it serious?	Yes, this code is serious as it can lead to poor engine performance, increased emissions, and potential engine damage if not addressed.
Possible causes	– Timing chain wear or failure – Incorrectly installed timing components – Clogged or stuck Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoids – Low engine oil level or poor oil condition – Faulty camshaft or crankshaft sensors
How to diagnose?	Check engine oil level and quality: Ensure it meets the manufacturer’s specifications. Inspect timing components: Look for wear or incorrect installation. Scope cam/crank signals: Verify they are in sync. Clean VVT solenoids and cam sensors: Address any clogs or debris. Check hot oil pressure: Ensure it’s sufficient for VVT system operation. Replace necessary parts: Consider updated or OEM components for reliability.

How to fix P0019 – learn from mechanics

I looked into P0019 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: Ford

Vehicle information
2012 Ford F-150 FX4 3.5L

Issue + repair history

• Timing chain noise on initial start-up
• Engine oil level was low and in poor condition; changed engine oil with correct oil
• Installed all new timing components, including all chains, guides, tensioners, and cam gears/phasers
• Scoped cam/crank signals, clearly out of sync even after repairs
• Upon reassembly, P0019 set immediately, P0018 set after driving
• Scoped cam/crank signals again, clearly out of sync
• Reviewed scope signals with other technicians; exhaust cam signals are in sync, but unsure if they are in sync with the crankshaft

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P0018- Crank/cam correlation bank 2 sensor 1
• P0019- Crank/cam correlation bank 2 sensor 2
• Scoped cam/crank signals showing out of sync

Mechanic suggestions

• Check the camshaft actuators, as they can get clogged up and stuck causing these codes when oil is bad and low
• Pull the two VVT solenoids, both front main caps, and clean everything. Also, remove and wipe down the cam sensors and reinstall with assembly lube or oil
• Check hot oil pressure; if below 30 psi, the VVT system won’t work correctly
• Replace the oil pump with a Melling and use the Ford racing timing kit for updated phasers, guides, and tensioners to compensate for any wear and maintain high oil pressure

Final fix

• Replaced the crankshaft drive gear, reassembled, and no further issues were reported.

Case #2: GMC

Vehicle information
2007 GMC Acadia SLT 3.6L

Issue + repair history

• Timing incorrectly set on bank 2 by another party, causing codes P0019 and P0341
• Replaced cam sensor on bank 1 intake cam, but P0341 persists

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P0019 (resolved after timing adjustment)
• P0341 – Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

Mechanic suggestions

• Check for a bulletin about cam end play and consider a wiring issue if cams are in good condition
• Inspect the reluctor wheel on the cam for slight bends, which can occur from improper handling, such as using a pry bar during valve cover removal
• Follow the Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) on cam end play, especially if following up on someone else’s repair
• Compare bank 1 cam sensor RPM reading with engine RPM to identify possible defective or damaged cam sensor wheel
• Ensure compatibility of cam actuator with cylinder head design; second design heads require 4 bolt actuators to control cam end play
• Verify that the cam gears match the original, as differences in teeth spacing can cause issues

Final fix

• Identified and corrected a bent reluctor on the cam gear, resolving the issue with code P0341.

Case #3: Land Rover

Vehicle information
2011 Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE 5.0L

Issue + repair history

• Used engine installed due to original engine’s blown head gaskets
• New chain, guides, tensioners installed with correct tools
• Codes P0018 and P0019 persisted even after rechecking timing and verifying camshaft and crankshaft positions with old engine

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P0018- Camshaft position sensor bank 2 Sensor A
• P0019- Camshaft position sensor bank 2 Sensor B

Mechanic suggestions

• Use a 4 channel scope to get waveform sample and check for a slipped cam gear or trigger
• Check if exhaust and intake solenoids on that bank can be switched
• Verify power and grounds to the cam sensors before disassembly
• Consider resetting adaptation in ECM and see if the code returns
• Ensure timing is checked properly using the vehicle service manual and use SDD for diagnosis
• Reset the adaptations in the engine control unit as it may resolve the issue
• Ensure proper tensioning of timing components and that tensioners are correctly activated
• Consider engine positioning issues during timing, especially on bank 2, due to tool interference with the firewall

Final fix

• Found that the timing tools were not 100% accurate and the chain could be so loose, even with brand-new OEM parts, that being 1 tooth off was possible. The solution involved triple-checking the LH bank timing and ensuring correct tool positioning.

Diagnostic Step	Brief Explanation
Check engine oil level and quality	Verify oil is clean and at the correct level to prevent VVT issues.
Scope camshaft and crankshaft signals	Ensure these crucial components are synchronized.
Inspect and clean VVT solenoids and cam sensors	Remove any clogs or dirt that could impair their function.
Evaluate timing chain installation	Confirm all timing components are correctly installed and timed.
Check hot oil pressure	Ensure it’s above 30 psi for proper VVT operation.
Replace components as necessary	Use quality parts to fix issues and prevent recurrence.
Consider engine positioning and timing tool accuracy	Ensure correct timing, especially in tight engine compartments.

By integrating insights from real service cases, this overview highlights common factors leading to P0019 and practical steps for diagnosis and repair. Addressing the root causes, such as timing inaccuracies, oil issues, or sensor malfunctions, is crucial for resolving this code effectively.