P0022 Code – What Does It Mean & How To Fix It

This is one of the most frequent OBD2 trouble codes. Read the full article below to know what it means, how to fix it, and what other codes may show related to it.

Causes

Common causes for this code include:

• Timing valve control solenoid has failed (stuck open).
• Oil is constantly supplied to the VCT piston chamber.
• Intake valve control solenoid system wiring issues (harness/wiring)
• The camshaft timing is incorrect

Symptoms

The symptoms of a P0022 code are:

• Engine runs rough
• Engine may lack power, especially when accelerating
• Excess fumes may be emitted by the engine, which will cause it to fail emissions testing
• The ECM will turn on the Check Engine Light
• The engine may produce black smoke from the tailpipe and the fuel economy will decline

Diagnosis

To diagnose a P0022 DTC code, a technician would:

1. Checks the electrical connections between the camshaft sensor and the engine electronics.
2. The oil control solenoid valve and crankshaft sensor are checked for loose connections or damaged wiring.
3. Ensures that the engine oil is clean and full, as well as ensuring that it is of the proper viscosity.
4. Freeze frame data of codes are viewed and scanned to reveal when the code was activated.
5. Test and repair as needed

Common mistakes

The following are common mistakes when diagnosing the trouble code P0022:

Not performing a visual test or replacing parts unccesarrily 

Make sure the oil viscosity is the correct type and that it is clean.

Setting or clearing the code without first verifying the problem (This will cause further issues if it turns out that there is not an actual fault)

Not checking for leaks, fluid levels, and consequences of potential causes before continuing with diagnostics 

How serious is this?

A P0022 code is serious and if not repaired, it can lead to serious consequences.

The engine may produce black smoke from the tailpipe, run rough, lack power and fail emission tests.

If the timing is severely off, there could be very costly damage done to the vehicle's internal components, such as the timing chain/belt, valves and pistons. 

It will also cause a decline in fuel economy due to poor running conditions. 

Possible driveability issues include idle problems, acceleration problems and a decrease in performance.

While this code is not immediately harmful to the vehicle itself or any of its occupants over time; it should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid expensive repairs that may arise from neglecting your car's issues early on. 

The better shape your vehicle is in, the more likely it will run without errors or problems.

What repairs can fix the code?

The following are solutions that may fix this problem:

1. Inspecting the timing chain alignment and cam phasers for wear and tear or possible damage.
2. Reprogramming the fault codes and doing a road test
3. If the camshaft oil control valve (OCV) does not operate as it should, you can attempt to repair or replace the wiring or connection to it.
4. Changing the oil and filter using the correct viscosity of oil for the engine
5. Replacing the oil control valve on the bank 2 intake camshaft

Related codes

A P0022 is related to and may be accompanied by the following codes:

• P0050 - Camshaft Position Sensor A – Bank 1
• P0051 – Camshaft Position Sensor A – Bank 2
• P0052 – Camshaft Position Sensor B – Bank 1
• P0053 – Camshaft Position Sensor B – Bank 2
• U0001: High Speed CAN Communication Bus (HS-CAN) Error
• C1278: Charge Pressure Actuator Control Performance

How much does it cost to fix the P0022 code?

The repair cost of a P0022 code depends on the type of vehicle and the extent of the damage. 

For an average car, expect to pay between $100-$500 in labor and parts.

This code can be difficult to diagnose due to a lack of knowledge about engine components and how they work together. Some related codes may also cause similar issues, which makes it more difficult to determine where exactly the fault lies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the P0022 code is potentially serious and needs to be fixed as soon as you find it. Since it can cause extensive damage to your engine, if not repaired properly or on time.

You may want to get a professional opinion before beginning any repairs yourself.

Otherwise, you run the risk of making poor decisions that could lead to more costly mistakes down the road and prolonging the solution until further damage is done. 

Be proactive and take care of your vehicle's maintenance!