OBD codes / P0022
P0022
ModerateCamshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 2)
P0022 is usually drivable short-term, but don't ignore it — check the oil level and condition immediately, since that alone resolves a fair number of cases. If the cause is a worn phaser or stretching chain, continued hard driving can make it worse, and a rattle at cold start is your cue to get it inspected promptly.
What this code means
P0022 is a timing-performance code: the intake camshaft on Bank 2 is lagging — more retarded than the computer commanded — and the computer cannot pull it back into position. Because Bank 2 only exists on V-type and flat engines, this code tells you the problem is on the bank opposite cylinder 1. The variable-timing system runs on oil pressure through small passages, so the most common and cheapest cause is oil: low level, wrong viscosity, or dirty oil clogging the solenoid screen. Next is a sticking oil-control solenoid or a worn cam phaser on that bank; a stretched timing chain is the serious, high-mileage cause. Since the other bank shares the same oil, a Bank 2-only fault often points at that bank's solenoid or phaser rather than the oil itself — but checking the oil is still the right first step.
Symptoms you might notice
- Rough idle or stalling
- Sluggish acceleration or hesitation
- Reduced fuel economy
- Rattle from the engine at start-up in chain-wear cases
- Check-engine light
What it costs to fix
Varies by vehicle — get it diagnosed.
The repair cost for this code depends too much on your exact vehicle and the underlying cause to quote a meaningful range. Confirm the cause first so you only pay for the fix you actually need.
Diagnose P0022 for my vehicle →Frequently asked
Can low oil cause P0022?
Yes — the cam phasers run on oil pressure through small passages, so low, dirty, or wrong-viscosity oil is one of the most common causes. An oil change with the correct grade is the cheap, smart first step before replacing parts.
Why only Bank 2 and not both banks?
Bank 2 is the cylinder bank opposite cylinder 1 on a V-type or flat engine. Since both banks share the same oil, a fault on only one bank often points to that bank's solenoid, its clogged screen, or its phaser rather than a global oil problem — though oil is still worth ruling out first.
Is P0022 a timing chain problem?
It can be, especially on high-mileage engines where a stretched chain lets the cam lag — but a sticking solenoid or dirty oil is the more common and far cheaper cause. Rule out oil and the solenoid before assuming a chain job.
Can I drive with P0022?
Short-term, usually yes — the engine runs, just with less pep and economy. Check the oil right away, and if you hear a start-up rattle or the running gets rougher, stop putting it off and get it diagnosed.
Seeing P0022 on your car? Get a diagnosis specific to your exact year, make and model.
Diagnose P0022 for my vehicleRelated trouble codes
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Generic OBD-II reference. Manufacturer-specific behavior varies — confirm with a scan tool and, for safety-related codes, a professional inspection.