"B" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 2)

What it means

The engine computer compares the "B" camshaft (usually the exhaust cam) timing it commands with the actual timing it reads from the cam sensor on Bank 2. This code is set because the actual timing is more advanced than commanded, or the cam does not reach its target in the expected time. The most common causes are engine oil problems or a sticking VVT oil control valve. This code applies to engines with two cylinder banks, such as V engines.

Related codes: P0023P0025P0019P0014P0390

Symptoms5

• Check engine light on.
• Rough idle, and the engine may stall.
• Reduced power and hesitation on acceleration.
• Higher fuel consumption.
• A brief rattle from the top of the engine at cold start in some cases.

Possible causes6

• Low engine oil level, old sludgy oil, or the wrong oil viscosity.
• VVT oil control valve sticking open from dirt or sludge.
• Clogged oil screen for the variable timing system, on engines that have one.
• Worn or sticking cam phaser (VVT gear).
• Stretched timing chain or a chain that has jumped a tooth.
• Faulty camshaft or crankshaft position sensor (less common).

How to diagnose5

1. Check the oil level and condition first, and confirm the viscosity matches the manufacturer specification.
2. On a scan tool, compare desired and actual cam timing; a large difference at idle usually means a stuck valve or phaser.
3. Command the oil control valve with the scan tool and see whether actual timing moves and then returns quickly.
4. Remove the valve and inspect its screen for debris or sludge.
5. If the oil and valve are fine, check the timing marks or crank-to-cam correlation values to detect a stretched chain.

How to fix5

1. Top up the oil, or change the oil and filter using the specified oil.
2. Clean the oil control valve and its screen, or replace it if it still sticks.
3. Replace the cam sensor if its reading is proven faulty.
4. Replace the cam phaser or the timing chain kit if it is proven worn or stretched.
5. Clear the codes, drive the vehicle and confirm desired and actual timing match.

Repair cost

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

The cost is low when an oil change or valve cleaning solves it, and much higher when the engine needs a new phaser or timing chain kit, which takes long labor.

Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions