Fix P0022: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The code P0022: “Camshaft Position A – Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 2)” indicates a timing issue with the engine’s camshaft on Bank 2. It suggests that the camshaft timing is more delayed than what the engine control module (ECM) has instructed. This code is typically related to the variable valve timing (VVT) system and can affect the vehicle’s engine performance and fuel efficiency.

P0022 quick overview

Meaning	P0022: Camshaft Position A – Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 2)
Is it serious?	Yes, it can lead to reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and in severe cases, engine damage.
Possible causes	– Faulty VVT solenoid or actuator – Incorrect oil viscosity or low oil level – Timing chain or belt problems – Clogged oil passages in the engine – Faulty camshaft position sensor – Issues with the ECM software or functionality – Mechanical damage to the camshaft or related components
How to diagnose?	Check Oil Level and Quality: Ensure correct oil viscosity and level. Inspect VVT System: Examine VVT solenoids and actuators for proper operation. Evaluate Timing Components: Look for issues with the timing chain or belt. Examine Oil Passages: Check for blockages in oil passages. Test Camshaft Position Sensor: Verify the sensor’s functionality and connections. Assess ECM: Check for software updates or faults in the engine control module. Inspect for Mechanical Damage: Look for any physical damage to the camshaft and related components.

How to fix P0022 – learn from mechanics

I looked into P0022 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

• 2004 Ford F-150 Lariat, 5.4L engine

Issue + Repair History

• Poor Idle Quality, Hesitation, Misfire
• Initially had code P022 (VCT over retarded)
• Replaced VCT solenoid bank 2

Other Test Results

• Fuel pressure: Good (43lbs)
• Spark: All coils okay
• Fuel injectors: All checked okay

Suggestions to Fix Issue

• Verify valve timing
• Check vacuum readings at idle and 2000 rpm
• Consider if cam timing may be out
• Perform a relative compression test with scan tool
• Ensure proper oil filter is being used
• Check for contamination in solenoid

Final Fix

• Replaced cam phasers and solenoid, after which the truck ran great

Case #2: Lexus

Vehicle Information

• 2006 Lexus GX470, 4.7L engine

Issue + Repair History

• MIL Lamp on after timing belt replacement
• Code P0022 indicating cam timing error on bank 2
• Possible misalignment during timing belt installation

Computer Codes & Descriptions

• P0022 – Cam timing error bank 2

Suggestions to Fix Issue

• Check if the bolt was not tight enough, potentially causing slippage during start
• Ensure proper alignment of timing marks; don’t use the “T” marks but align with lines
• Consider if there is sludge affecting the variable timing actuator due to low mileage usage

Final Fix

• After re-aligning with the correct timing marks, the code was cleared again and did not reappear, indicating the issue was resolved with proper timing.

Case #3: Lincoln

Vehicle Information

• 2005 Lincoln Navigator, 5.4L engine

Issue + Repair History

• Engine noise/knock and no oil
• Replaced with a remanufactured engine
• Post-installation issues: rough running, check engine light, codes P0011, P0022, P0175, P0171
• Replaced VCT solenoids
• Recurring code P0022 after vehicle performed a U-turn
• Oil pressure: 36psi hot at idle

Computer Codes & Descriptions

• P0022 – Cam timing error

Suggestions to Fix Issue

• Check for oil restriction to the phaser
• Ensure cam sensors are good and terminals fit tightly
• Replace cam phaser, particularly using OEM parts
• Check oil pressure in gear, should be at least 30 psi hot in gear
• Consider possibility of debris in front cam cap affecting oil flow

Final Fix

• Found front most camshaft bearing cap scored and oil passage for VCT system nearly closed
• Replaced engine again with another remanufactured unit from a different rebuilder

Case #4: Land Rover

Vehicle Information

• 2004 Land Rover Range Rover HSE, 4.4L engine

Issue + Repair History

• Check Engine Light on with engine noise/knock
• Replaced engine with a remanufactured one
• Post-installation: rough running, Check Engine Light, codes P0011, P0022, P0175, P0171
• Replaced VCT solenoids, but code P0022 reappeared after U-turn
• Adjusted variable valve timing

Computer Codes & Descriptions

• P0022 – Vanos sensor or oxygen sensor issue

Suggestions to Fix Issue

• Check exhaust pipe for cracks before and after the cats
• Reset adaptions and smoke test the intake system for air leaks
• Replace catalytic converter
• Examine PCV hoses and exhaust system for leaks
• Verify operation of VCT solenoid

Final Fix

• Found two problems: bad catalytic converters (covered by warranty) and needed to adjust variable valve timing

Case #5: Nissan

Vehicle Information

• 2005 Nissan 350Z Grand Touring, 3.5L engine

Issue + Repair History

• Lack of power, difficulty getting into gear
• Replaced pressure plate due to customer’s prior performance modifications
• Post-repair: Codes P0011 and P0021, no power
• Replaced OEM crank sensor, scoped the crank sensor
• Flywheel potentially magnetized during machining

Computer Codes & Descriptions

• P0011 – Bank 1 cam position timing performance
• P0021 – Bank 2 cam position timing performance

Suggestions to Fix Issue

• Check if the correct flywheel was installed
• Verify the alignment of flywheel and crank
• Ensure proper oil maintenance to avoid gum and varnish deposits in OCV solenoid
• Check oil pressure and for sludge
• Consider camshaft malfunction or a bad sensor/solenoid

Final Fix

• The issue was with the dowel pin hole on the flywheel being too small for the dowel on the crank
• When customer installed the flywheel, it pushed the dowel back into the crankshaft
• The flywheel was not properly lined up, causing the issues
• After realigning the flywheel correctly, the problem was resolved

Advice	Diagnostic Step Description
Verify Proper Timing Alignment	Ensure that the timing marks are correctly aligned during installation.
Check for Mechanical Damage	Inspect for any mechanical damage that might affect timing, such as scored bearing caps or damaged flywheels.
Replace or Inspect VCT Solenoids	Check and, if necessary, replace Variable Cam Timing (VCT) solenoids to ensure they are operating correctly.
Evaluate Oil Pressure	Measure oil pressure to confirm it meets the requirements for proper engine and VCT system functioning.
Inspect for Oil Sludge	Check for oil sludge which can lead to poor VCT solenoid operation and resolve with an oil change or flush if needed.
Use OEM Parts	Prefer Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts for replacements, especially for sensitive components like cam phasers and sensors.
Examine Crank and Cam Sensors	Test crankshaft and camshaft sensors and their connections for faults or misalignments.
Align Flywheel Correctly	Ensure the flywheel is correctly installed, paying attention to dowel pin alignment and any potential magnetization issues.
Reset and Relearn Procedures	After repairs, perform necessary reset and relearn procedures for the engine control module.