P0019
Fix within a few daysThe engine's computer detects a mismatch between the crankshaft and camshaft positions on Bank 2, exhaust side. This means your engine's timing is off.
Code P0019 means your engine's timing is off on Bank 2 exhaust side. Common causes: Low/dirty oil (30%), VVT solenoid (25%), cam sensor (20%). Drivability: Limit driving, fix within a few days. Repair cost: $50-$200 DIY, $150-$1500+ professional.
Can I Drive With P0019?
Limit driving, fix within a few days
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration. Immediate repair needed.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, loud rattling or knocking noises from the engine, significant power loss, engine stalling.
Symptoms of P0019
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Rough idle or stalling
- 3Reduced engine power or acceleration
- 4Decreased fuel economy
- 5Engine may be hard to start
- 6Unusual engine noises (rattling, ticking)
Common Causes of P0019
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) systems rely on clean, adequate oil pressure to operate the camshaft phasers, and low or dirty oil prevents proper operation.
30% of P0019 cases are fixed by addressing oil level and quality
A faulty VVT solenoid can stick or fail to regulate oil flow to the camshaft phaser, causing incorrect cam timing.
25% of P0019 cases are fixed by replacing this part
A bad camshaft position sensor sends incorrect or no signal to the engine computer, leading to a timing correlation error.
20% of P0019 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Mechanical wear in the timing chain system or a failing VVT phaser can cause the camshaft to be out of sync with the crankshaft.
20% of P0019 cases are fixed by repairing these components
A faulty crankshaft position sensor can send an inaccurate signal, leading the computer to incorrectly believe the cam and crank are out of sync.
5% of P0019 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Check your engine oil level and condition. Low or dirty oil is a common cause.
- Inspect the wiring and connectors for the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft position sensor and VVT solenoid for any visible damage or corrosion.
How to Diagnose P0019
- 1Check engine oil level and condition. Top off or change oil if necessary.
- 2Inspect wiring and electrical connectors for the Camshaft Position Sensor (Bank 2 Sensor B) and the VVT solenoid for damage or corrosion.
- 3Using a scan tool with live data, monitor camshaft and crankshaft position sensor readings to identify discrepancies.
- 4Test the VVT solenoid (Bank 2 Exhaust) for proper operation using a multimeter or by applying direct power (if safe and accessible).
- 5If sensors and solenoids test good, perform a visual inspection of the timing chain for slack or wear (requires valve cover removal or more extensive disassembly).
P0019 on Popular Vehicles
Toyota Camry
2007-2024Many Toyota V6 engines are sensitive to oil quality and level. P0019 often points to a failing VVT solenoid or sludge buildup affecting VVT operation. Regular oil changes are critical.
55% fixed by addressing oil or VVT solenoid
Honda Accord
2003-2024Honda V6 engines can also experience P0019 due to VVT solenoid issues or problems with the VTEC oil pressure switch. Ensure proper oil level and condition.
50% fixed by addressing oil or VVT solenoid
Ford F-150
2004-2024Ford's V8 engines (like the 5.4L and 5.0L) are known for VVT phaser issues and timing chain stretch, especially at higher mileage. P0019 can indicate these more serious mechanical problems.
40% fixed by timing component repair
Chevrolet Silverado
2007-2024GM V8 engines, particularly the 5.3L, can suffer from timing chain stretch or VVT actuator failures, leading to P0019. Diagnosis often requires checking timing chain slack.
40% fixed by timing component repair
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0019 mean?
P0019 indicates that your engine's computer has detected a discrepancy between the crankshaft position and the camshaft position on Bank 2, exhaust side. This means the engine's timing is not correct.
Can I drive with P0019?
Limit driving, fix within a few days. Driving with P0019 can lead to serious engine damage if the timing is significantly off. It's best to address this code quickly to prevent further issues.
Will P0019 clear itself?
No, P0019 will not clear itself. The underlying mechanical or electrical issue causing the timing correlation error must be fixed. Once the repair is made, you will need to clear the code with a scan tool.
How do I fix P0019 myself?
Start by checking your engine oil level and condition; change it if it's low or dirty. If that doesn't fix it, you can test and potentially replace the VVT solenoid or the camshaft position sensor on Bank 2 exhaust side. More advanced issues like a stretched timing chain require professional tools and expertise.
How much does it cost to fix P0019?
DIY repair costs range from $50 (for an oil change or a basic sensor) to $200 (for a VVT solenoid). Professional repair costs can range from $150 (for diagnosis and a simple sensor replacement) up to $1500 or more if a timing chain or VVT actuator needs replacement.
P0019 keeps coming back - why?
If P0019 keeps returning, it means the root cause was not fully addressed. This often points to a deeper mechanical issue like a stretched timing chain, a failing VVT actuator, or persistent oil pressure problems. It could also be a faulty replacement part or an overlooked wiring issue.
Will P0019 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0019 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on automatically results in a failure, and engine timing issues directly impact exhaust emissions.
What's the difference between P0019 and P0018?
P0019 refers to a camshaft/crankshaft correlation issue on Bank 2, Sensor B (exhaust camshaft). P0018 refers to the same issue but on Bank 2, Sensor A (intake camshaft). They both indicate a timing problem on the same bank but for different camshafts.
P0019 on Toyota Camry?
On many Toyota and Lexus V6/V8 engines, P0019 is frequently caused by a faulty VVT solenoid or issues related to engine oil sludge if oil change intervals were neglected. Checking oil condition and testing the VVT solenoid is a common first step for these vehicles.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the engine oil level and condition before diagnosing other components?
Good answer: Yes, that's always the first step for VVT codes. The oil was [level/condition], and we confirmed it wasn't the primary issue.
What were the live data readings for the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft and crankshaft position sensors?
Good answer: The cam sensor reading was [X degrees] while the crank was [Y degrees], indicating a consistent offset of [Z degrees] which is outside specification.
Did you test the VVT solenoid for Bank 2 exhaust for proper operation and resistance?
Good answer: Yes, we checked the resistance, and it was [X ohms], which is within spec. We also commanded it on and off with the scan tool and confirmed it was actuating.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$200
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$1500
Save $100-$1300 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-4 hours (for sensor/solenoid), 8-20+ hours (for timing chain)
Intermediate. Basic checks like oil level and sensor replacement are DIY-friendly, but diagnosing and replacing timing chain components requires advanced tools and expertise.
Cost of Waiting
Continued driving with P0019 can lead to severe engine damage, including bent valves or piston damage if the timing is significantly off. It can also send unburned fuel to your catalytic converter, causing it to overheat and fail. A $100 VVT solenoid job now prevents a $2,000 engine or converter replacement.
While You're In There...
If the code is related to oil quality or level, a fresh oil change is essential. It's a low-cost maintenance item that directly impacts VVT system health.
If you need to remove the valve cover to access the VVT solenoid or inspect timing components, replacing the gasket prevents oil leaks and saves future labor.
If you suspect sludge buildup due to neglected oil changes, an engine oil flush can help clean out deposits that affect VVT operation.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool with live data capability
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Multimeter
- Engine oil and filter (if needed)
- Oil pressure gauge (optional, for advanced diagnosis)
P0019 points to a timing issue, which sounds serious, but often it's a simple fix like an oil change or a sensor. Tackle it quickly to prevent bigger problems.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Check your engine oil. Ensure it's at the correct level and is clean. Change it if it's dirty or low, then clear the code and retest.
Step 2: If the oil check doesn't fix it, use a scan tool to monitor live data from the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors. Look for erratic readings or a consistent offset on Bank 2 exhaust.
Step 3: Test the VVT solenoid for Bank 2 exhaust. You can often test its resistance with a multimeter or command it on/off with an advanced scan tool. If it fails, replace it.