What is the P0022 fault code?
The P0022 fault code, applicable to all car manufacturers, means “A Camshaft Position – Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 2)“.
Background Information: The camshaft controls the opening and closing of the valves. In a variable valve timing system, the electronic camshaft adjusting valve (or oil control valve, OCV) adjusts the camshaft angle by changing the oil pressure to the camshaft adjuster (mechanical) according to instructions from the engine control module (ECM), ensuring the valves open and close at the optimal time. Causes of the P0022 fault include incorrect timing of the intake/left/front camshaft, mechanical jamming of the camshaft due to over-timing, or the actuator valve being stuck in the open position. In short, it’s over-timing. “A” camshaft must be the “intake,” “left,” or “front” camshaft. Determine left/right and front/rear from the driver’s position looking forward. The first group refers to the group including cylinder 1, and the second group is the group opposite the first.
Symptoms of Error Code P0022
- Loss of engine power
- Poor engine starting
- Uneven idling
- Increased fuel consumption
- Increased exhaust emissions
- “Check Engine” light illuminates
Main Causes of Error Code P0022
- Oil contamination or low oil level
- Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid valve malfunction
- Oil passage blockage
- Camshaft or crankshaft position sensor malfunction
- VVT phase adjuster failure
- Mechanical damage to the valve timing drive (chain, gears)
- Software malfunction in the ECU
Error Code P0022 in Different Vehicles
Ford P0022: In Ford vehicles (especially F-150s with the 5.4 Triton engine), the error is usually due to a phase control system malfunction and oil contamination. There may also be problems with the timing chain.
Toyota P0022: For Toyota, the error may be due to a VVT solenoid valve failure or the use of non-OEM engine oil with an incompatible viscosity.
BMW P0022: In BMWs, especially models with the N62 engine, the problem is often due to a phase adjuster malfunction or VVT channel blockage. Camshaft position sensor failure is also possible.
Nissan P0022: For the VQ35 engine, the error may be caused by timing chain stretching or phase control valve malfunction.
P0022 in Mercedes-Benz: For Mercedes-Benz, error P0022 usually indicates a problem with the VVT system and requires a comprehensive diagnosis, including checking the oil pressure.
How to Diagnose Error Code P0022?
Step 1: Read the error code with an OBD2 scanner
Step 2: Check the engine oil level and condition
Step 3: Check wiring and connectors for damage
Step 4: Check the operation of the valve timing control solenoid valve
Step 5: Mechanically inspect the phase converter and timing chain if necessary
Possible Causes and Diagnostic Methods
| Possible Causes | How to Check？ |
|---|---|
| Low oil level or dirty oil | Check oil level, change oil and filter |
| VVT solenoid valve malfunction | Check resistance, power supply, and response |
| Oil passage blockage | Clean or flush the system, use flushing oil |
| Phase shifter malfunction | Check for damage, check mobility |
| Camshaft position sensor malfunction | Check the signal on the oscilloscope, replace if necessary |
Tools needed: OBD2 car scanner, multimeter, oscilloscope (preferred), mechanical disassembly tools, flushing agent
How to fix error code P0022? (Solutions to the problem)
Simple fixes
- Change engine oil and oil filter
- Clean connectors and wiring
- Reset the error code after addressing the cause
In-depth diagnostic and repair solutions
- Replace the faulty VVT control solenoid valve
- Flush the oil passages of the VVT system
- Check and replace the phase adjuster if necessary
- Replacement of camshaft/crankshaft position sensor
- Timing phase correction in case of mechanical failure
- ECU software update
Troubleshooting by symptoms
| Symptom | Possible solution |
|---|---|
| Power loss | VVT solenoid valve check, oil change |
| Uneven engine performance | Diagnosis of phase adjuster and shaft position sensor |
| Increased fuel consumption | VVT system cleaning, ECU check |
| Check engine indicator light | Read and reset the code after troubleshooting |
P0022 Error Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with a P0022 error?
Not recommended. This error indicates valve timing misalignment, which can lead to reduced power, increased fuel consumption, and engine damage.
Can the P0022 error be caused by engine oil?
Yes, dirty oil or incorrect viscosity is one of the most common causes of this error.
Is it possible to reset the P0022 error code without fixing the problem?
The code can be temporarily reset using an OBD2 scanner or by disconnecting the battery, but the code will reappear if the cause is not addressed.
Is it difficult to fix the P0022 error myself?
Some situations (such as changing the oil or VVT solenoid valve) can be done yourself, but complex malfunctions may require expert help.
Does the P0022 error affect fuel consumption?
Yes, due to improper operation of the VVT system, engine efficiency decreases, leading to increased fuel consumption.
Related OBD2 Errors:
P0011 – A Camshaft Position – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)
P0021 – A Camshaft Position – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 2)
P0023 – B Camshaft Position – Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 2)
Important! Failure to address P0022 errors promptly may lead to reduced engine life and other serious malfunctions. In some cases, the engine may enter limp mode. Change your engine oil regularly and only use the recommended viscosity. When an error occurs, do not simply reset the code – it is crucial to address the root cause of the problem, otherwise the issue will reappear.