What does 'over-retarded' mean in P0022?

It means the intake camshaft is rotated later (retarded) relative to the crankshaft than the PCM intended, and the phaser can't bring it back to the commanded position. 'Retarded' here is a timing term for later valve events — it isn't a comment on anything being broken beyond the cam-timing being out of range.

Which side is Bank 2?

Bank 2 is the cylinder bank that does not contain cylinder number 1. On a V6 or V8, the two banks sit on opposite sides of the 'V'. On an inline engine there's only one bank, so P0022 generally applies to multi-bank engines. Check a repair source for your specific engine to confirm which side is Bank 2.

Can I just change the oil to fix P0022?

Sometimes that's all it takes. Low, old, or wrong-viscosity oil is the most common trigger because the phaser runs on oil pressure. Change the oil with the correct grade and re-test. If the code returns, move on to the VVT solenoid, then the phaser and timing components.

Is it safe to keep driving with P0022?

You can usually drive short distances, but don't put it off. Retarded cam timing hurts power and economy, and if the underlying cause is low oil or a worn timing chain, continued driving can cause further engine damage. Diagnose and repair it promptly.

OBD-II trouble code

P0022: 'A' Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 2)

The intake ('A') camshaft on Bank 2 is timed too far retarded compared to what the computer commanded. The check engine light is on and the engine may run rough or feel down on power.

Quick facts

System: Powertrain
Category: Variable Valve Timing
Severity: Medium severity
Drivable: Usually safe to drive short-term
Repair cost range: $100 – $1,200
DIY difficulty: Intermediate DIY

What does P0022 mean?

Variable valve timing (VVT) lets the engine rotate its camshafts relative to the crankshaft to optimize power, economy, and emissions across the RPM range. The powertrain control module (PCM) commands an oil control (VVT) solenoid, which meters engine oil to the cam phaser and moves the camshaft to a target position. The PCM then confirms the result using the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors.

P0022 sets when the 'A' (intake) camshaft on Bank 2 is more retarded — timed later — than the PCM commanded, and the phaser won't advance it back into range. Bank 2 is the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder number 1; on an inline engine there's only one bank, so this code applies to V6, V8, and other multi-bank engines. It is the Bank 2 counterpart to P0012 (Bank 1) and is closely related to the over-advanced codes P0011/P0021.

As with most VVT faults, the cause is far more often mechanical-hydraulic than electrical. Low or dirty engine oil is the leading trigger, because the phaser depends on clean oil at the right pressure to move and hold position. A stuck VVT solenoid, a clogged oil passage or screen, a worn phaser, or a stretched timing chain can all leave the cam stuck in a retarded position.

Common causes

Low engine oil level or overdue, degraded oil starving the phaser
Wrong oil viscosity for the engine
Stuck or clogged VVT (oil control) solenoid on Bank 2
Debris or sludge blocking the solenoid screen or oil passages
Worn or faulty camshaft phaser/actuator on Bank 2
Stretched or worn timing chain altering cam-to-crank timing
Damaged wiring or a poor connection at the solenoid
Failing camshaft or crankshaft position sensor

Symptoms

Check engine light is on
Rough idle or stumble
Reduced power and sluggish acceleration
Reduced fuel economy
Rattle or ticking on start-up in some cases
Hard starting

Diagnostic steps

1.Check engine oil level and condition first. Correct low oil or perform an overdue oil change with the specified viscosity before further diagnosis.
2.Scan for companion codes. P0022 with P0021 (Bank 2 over-advanced), P0016, or the Bank 1 codes P0011/P0012 helps confirm the pattern.
3.With a scan tool, monitor commanded versus actual Bank 2 intake cam position. A cam stuck retarded that won't advance on command confirms the fault.
4.Inspect and, if possible, command the Bank 2 VVT solenoid with a bidirectional scan tool; remove it to check the screen for debris and confirm the plunger moves freely.
5.Check the solenoid wiring and connector for resistance, damage, and corrosion.
6.If oil, solenoid, and wiring are good, inspect the camshaft phaser and timing chain/guides for wear or stretch, and verify cam and crank sensor operation.

Repair cost

$100 – $1,200

An oil change or a VVT solenoid replacement — the most common fixes — runs about $100-$350. A camshaft phaser/actuator replacement runs $600-$1,000+, and timing chain replacement can exceed $1,200 on some engines. Rule out low or dirty oil before authorizing major timing work.

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DIY vs shop

This is an intermediate DIY job. It usually involves diagnostic steps, specialty parts, and some careful work in tight spaces. If you have the tools and a service manual or trustworthy video for your specific vehicle, it is achievable in a weekend. Otherwise, a competent independent shop will be faster.