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P0022 is the Bank 2 version of P0012 - oil quality is the first variable to eliminate. The Bank 2 VVT solenoid stuck closed prevents oil pressure from advancing the cam. Change the oil first and check whether the code clears before ordering parts. See top-rated scanners on Amazon ↗
🗺️ Where Is the Problem?
Blueprint view - P0022 fault localized to the Bank 2 VVT solenoid stuck closed, preventing cam advancement
These are statistical causes across ALL vehicles - your exact car may rank differently
For example, on a Honda 4-cyl the downstream O2 sensor causes P0022 64% of the time, but on a GM 5.3L V8 the catalytic converter is the cause 71% of the time. Get a probability ranking built specifically for your year, make, model, and mileage.
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🎯 Top Causes & Probability
55%
#1 - Most Likely
Bank 2 VVT Solenoid Stuck Closed
The Bank 2 intake cam VVT solenoid is stuck in the closed (de-energized) position, blocking oil pressure from reaching the actuator and preventing cam advancement from the retarded default position. Oil sludge on the plunger or screen is the primary cause. Replace solenoid with a fresh oil change.
🔩 Part
$20–$90
👨🔧 Labor
$50–$200
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Medium
25%
#2 - Check First
Low Oil Pressure Bank 2 Passages
Insufficient oil pressure in the Bank 2 oil feed circuit prevents the actuator from moving. This can occur with low oil level, a weak oil pump, or partially blocked passages. On high-mileage engines, reduced oil pump output affects the Bank 2 VVT circuit first on some V-engine designs.
🔩 Part
$30–$200
👨🔧 Labor
$0–$300
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Easy–Medium
12%
#3 - Less Common
Timing Chain Stretch
A stretched timing chain causes the Bank 2 cam to appear retarded relative to the crankshaft even when the solenoid is functioning properly. On V8 engines with a single chain driving both banks, chain stretch typically appears as simultaneous Bank 1 and Bank 2 retard codes.
🔩 Part
$150–$400
👨🔧 Labor
$600–$1,800
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Hard
8%
#4 -
Actuator Failure Bank 2
The Bank 2 cam phaser has seized internally in the retarded position. This is confirmed after oil service and solenoid replacement show no improvement and live data confirms the cam cannot advance on command.
🔩 Part
$80–$280
👨🔧 Labor
$300–$900
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Hard
🚗 Most Affected Vehicles
🔧 Step-by-Step Diagnosis
- Perform Oil Change First - Change oil and filter using the manufacturer-specified viscosity. Clear the code. Drive 50–100 miles. If P0022 does not return, degraded oil was the cause. If it returns, proceed to solenoid replacement.
- Replace Bank 2 VVT Solenoid - Locate and replace the Bank 2 intake cam oil control valve/solenoid. Inspect the solenoid bore and screen for sludge. Clean the bore before installing the new solenoid.
📍 Find a Trusted Shop Near You
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Tips for Choosing a Shop
- Ask if they charge a diagnostic fee and whether it applies toward the repair
- Request a written estimate before approving any work
- Ask specifically about the part brand - OEM vs. aftermarket matters for this code
- Check Google reviews for recent mentions of the specific repair you need