P0022

A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded Bank 2

Variable valve timing (VVT) Generic OBD-II High

What it means

P0022 means the bank 2 intake ("A") camshaft is timed further retarded than the ECM commanded. The variable-valve-timing system isn't reaching its target, most often because of low or dirty oil or a stuck oil-control solenoid. The engine keeps running but idles rough and loses power, and the underlying oil-flow problem can accelerate wear if ignored.

High

Can I keep driving? Usually drivable — expect rough idle, hesitation, and reduced power; the engine runs, but oil-starved VVT can worsen, so fix it soon.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

406

scans in the past year

Found in

0.1%

of scans

0.1%

of scans that found faults

Appears alongside · share of P0022 scans

P0161in 59.9% of scans

P2014in 59.6% of scans

P2019in 59.6% of scans

Figures reflect only diagnostic scans recorded through our own apps and tools. Cars are typically scanned because a symptom or warning light prompted it, so these counts describe our scan records — not the incidence of faults in any model, and not the quality, reliability, or safety of any vehicle. No comparison between manufacturers or models is implied. All trademarks belong to their respective owners; no affiliation or endorsement is implied.

Common symptoms

What you'll notice

Check-engine light on
Rough idle or occasional stalling at idle
Reduced power and poor acceleration
Lower fuel economy

Common causes

Most likely first

Low or dirty engine oil (most common — the actuator is oil-driven)Likely
Clogged bank 2 camshaft oil-control valve (VVT solenoid) or its screenCommon
Failed camshaft timing actuator (phaser) solenoidCommon
Stretched timing chain or worn phaser holding the cam retardedLess often
Faulty camshaft position sensor or wiringLess often
Faulty engine control module (ECM), rarelyLess often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Check engine oil level and condition first — low or sludgy oil is the leading cause; change oil and filter if overdue.
Inspect and clean or replace the bank 2 oil-control (VVT) solenoid and its filter screen.
Test the camshaft position sensor and wiring for faults.
If oil and solenoid are good, inspect the timing chain and phaser for wear or over-retard.
Clear the code and road-test to confirm timing returns to spec.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0022?+

For a short time, gently. The engine still runs, but cam timing is stuck retarded, so power and economy suffer and the cause (often low oil) can lead to further wear.

Can I just clear P0022?+

It will reset once the ECM re-checks cam timing, unless the oil, solenoid, or phaser issue is corrected.

Read & clear P0022 yourself

Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.

▶ Get it on Google Play

✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX