P0022: The intake cam on the right side is stuck too far retarded

"A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 2)

What it means

The intake cam on bank 2 is further retarded than the computer asked for, or it moved to retard and cannot return. Over-retarded cam timing reduces low-end torque and fuel economy. This is the bank 2 equivalent of P0012. The repair path is the same: oil condition first, then VVT solenoid on bank 2, then phaser if the solenoid does not solve it.

Common causes

1. Stuck VVT solenoid in the retard position on bank 2Oil sludge holds the solenoid open toward retard. Replacing it fixes most cases.
2. Low oil level or old engine oilThe actuator cannot return the cam without adequate oil pressure.
3. Worn bank 2 intake cam phaserA phaser that cannot hold position slips toward retard on its own.
4. Timing chain stretchA stretched chain can offset the cam signal to appear retarded even with a functional solenoid.

What the fix could involve

From the cheaper fix to the bigger one. Prices depend on your car, your area and the shop, so ask for a written quote that names the part and the labor before you approve it.

• VVT solenoid (bank 2)
• Cam phaser (bank 2)
• Timing chain kit

Symptoms

• Check engine light on
• Rough or low idle
• Weak acceleration from a stop
• Poor fuel economy
• Hard start in cold weather

What to do next

Change the oil if it is overdue and clear the code. If P0022 returns, replace the bank 2 intake VVT solenoid. Confirm the wiring connector is clean and seated. If a new solenoid does not hold, have the phaser and timing chain inspected. A cold-start rattle with this code usually means the chain needs attention.

Lewis reads P0022 alongside any related cam timing codes on both banks, and shows pending codes too, so you can confirm on your next scan whether a fix held. Get Lewis on the App Store or Google Play.

Related codes

• P0020
• P0021
• P0012
• P0016
• P0017

FAQ

I have both P0012 and P0022 at the same time. What does that mean?

Both intake cams are retarded. That almost always points to an oil pressure or oil quality problem affecting the whole VVT system, not individual solenoids. Start with an oil change.

Is P0022 the same repair as P0012?

The procedure is the same, just on the opposite bank. The solenoid part number may differ depending on your engine.

Can P0022 trigger a misfire code?

Retarded cam timing changes the air-fuel charge, which can cause rough combustion, but it rarely triggers true misfire codes on its own. If you see both, fix the cam timing code first.