What does P0022 mean?
The Bank 2 intake camshaft timing is more retarded than commanded.
Quick Decision Guide
- Low or dirty oil
- Sticking VVT oil control solenoid
- Clogged oil passage or screen
When to stop driving
Usually drivable short-term if the engine runs smoothly, but diagnose soon. Stop if there is loud rattling, stalling, or severe power loss.
Reviewed by ratchit Automotive Solutions for clarity and inspection-first safety framing. Not a substitute for professional diagnosis.
Repair Decision & Cost Guide
Use this guide to decide what to inspect first, what it may cost, and when to move from DIY checks to professional diagnosis.
P0022 is a clue, not a confirmed diagnosis. Inspect simple causes before replacing parts.
DIY vs. Shop
Can you keep driving?
Best first DIY check
Don't replace this first
When to seek a shop
Recommended next action
Estimated Repair Cost
Inspection cost
$0–$25 DIY scanner
Shop diagnostic cost
$80–$150 (typical shop diagnostic fee)
Shop repair cost
$100–$2,500
Diagnostic uncertainty: This code points to a system or condition, not a guaranteed failed part. Inspect before replacing.
Cost variation: Costs vary by vehicle, location, part quality, labor rate, and the confirmed root cause.
Inspect Before Replacing
These checks are cheap, fast, and rule out the most common causes before spending money on parts.
- 1Check oil level and maintenance history.
- 2Inspect VVT solenoid connector and wiring.
Track this ignition/timing issue
Save this issue to My Garage, track what you inspect, and build service history for this vehicle.
V-IQ readiness preview: Medium impact — resolving and tracking this issue may improve your V-IQ readiness. Tracking active codes and resolutions builds a service history we use to estimate V-IQ readiness over time.
Understanding P0022 in detail
P0022 points to a variable valve timing control problem. VVT depends on clean oil, correct oil level, oil control solenoids, cam phasers, and accurate sensor feedback. Sludge, low oil, clogged screens, wiring faults, or a sticking phaser can set this code. Start with oil level and solenoid circuit checks before replacing expensive timing components.
Symptoms of P0022
- Check engine light
- Rough idle
- Reduced power
- Poor fuel economy
- Rattle on startup
- Hesitation
Common causes
- Low or dirty oil
- Sticking VVT oil control solenoid
- Clogged oil passage or screen
- Cam phaser fault
- Wiring or connector issue
- Timing chain wear
How to diagnose P0022
Steps ordered by urgency — tackle Now items first.
- NowCheck oil level and maintenance history.
- NowInspect VVT solenoid connector and wiring.
- SoonCommand or test the oil control solenoid where supported.
- SoonCheck for sludge or clogged screens.
- LaterVerify cam timing data if the code returns after oil/solenoid checks.
How to fix P0022
Fixes listed in order of likelihood and cost-efficiency.
- 1Oil change or correct oil level
- 2Clean or replace VVT solenoid
- 3Repair wiring
- 4Clean oil passages
- 5Repair cam phaser or timing components
Want to check your full vehicle?
Run a free maintenance scan to see what else needs attention based on your year, make, model, mileage, and climate.
Recommended tools & parts
These recommendations appear because this issue commonly requires inspection in this system area. ratchit does not recommend replacing parts until the likely cause is confirmed.
Sensor & Diagnostic Kit
Test and replace common engine sensors — O2, MAF, cam/crank
Check sensor behavior before replacing parts Verify fitment for your year/make/model.
Ignition & Misfire Inspection Kit
Inspect spark plugs, coils, and ignition components before replacing parts
Inspect spark plugs, coils, and misfire causes before buying parts Verify fitment for your year/make/model.
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Estimated Repair Cost — P0022
Ranges vary by vehicle, region, and shop. Use as a ballpark — always get a quote.
DIY estimate
$10 – $80
Shop estimate
$100 – $300
DIY estimate
$40 – $220
Shop estimate
$200 – $700
DIY estimate
$100 – $800
Shop estimate
$500 – $2,500
Cost data is estimated and may not reflect your specific vehicle or location.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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