P0025
Fix within a few daysYour engine's computer detected that the exhaust camshaft on engine Bank 2 is not moving to its commanded position, specifically it's too far retarded (delayed). Bank 2 is the side of the engine without cylinder #1.
Code P0025 means your engine's exhaust camshaft on Bank 2 is over-retarded. Common causes: Low/dirty engine oil (30%), faulty VVT solenoid (45%), faulty cam phaser (10%). Drivability: Limit driving, fix within a few days. Repair cost: $50-$200 DIY, $150-$500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0025?
Yes, for short trips only
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light, loud engine knocking, significant power loss, or a burning smell.
Symptoms of P0025
- 1Rough or unstable engine idle
- 2Reduced engine power or acceleration
- 3Decreased fuel economy
- 4Engine stalling
- 5Engine knocking or ticking noises
- 6Check Engine Light illuminated
Common Causes of P0025
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system relies on clean, sufficient oil pressure to operate the camshaft phasers.
30% of P0025 cases are fixed by addressing oil level or quality
This solenoid controls the oil flow to the camshaft phaser, and if it's stuck or faulty, it cannot adjust cam timing correctly.
45% of P0025 cases are fixed by replacing this part
The sensor provides feedback to the engine computer about the camshaft's actual position, and a faulty sensor sends incorrect data.
10% of P0025 cases are fixed by replacing this part
This mechanical component directly adjusts the camshaft timing, and internal wear or sludge can prevent it from moving freely.
10% of P0025 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged wiring or a corroded connector to the VVT solenoid or camshaft position sensor can interrupt signals.
5% of P0025 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Check your engine oil level and condition. Low or dirty oil is a common cause.
- Visually inspect the wiring and connector to the Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid for any damage or corrosion.
How to Diagnose P0025
- 1Check engine oil level and condition; top off or change oil if necessary.
- 2Visually inspect the VVT solenoid and camshaft position sensor on Bank 2 for damaged wiring or loose connectors.
- 3Test the resistance of the VVT solenoid with a multimeter; compare to manufacturer specifications.
- 4If accessible, swap the Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid with the Bank 1 exhaust VVT solenoid (if identical) to see if the code moves.
- 5Use a scan tool to monitor live data for camshaft position and VVT solenoid command/actual values.
- 6Perform an engine oil pressure test to ensure adequate pressure for VVT operation.
P0025 on Popular Vehicles
Toyota Camry
2007-2024Toyota's VVT-i systems are sensitive to oil quality. P0025 on a Camry often points to a clogged or failing exhaust VVT solenoid on Bank 2, especially if oil changes have been neglected.
70% fixed by replacing VVT solenoid or oil change
Honda Accord
2003-2024Honda's VTEC/VTC systems also rely heavily on clean engine oil. P0025 on an Accord can be due to a faulty VTC oil control solenoid or a clogged oil screen within the VTC system.
65% fixed by replacing VVT solenoid or oil change
Ford F-150
2004-2024Ford's VCT (Variable Cam Timing) systems, particularly on V8 engines, are known for VCT solenoid failures and camshaft phaser issues, often exacerbated by poor oil maintenance. P0025 on an F-150 can be a precursor to more serious timing issues.
60% fixed by replacing VVT solenoid or phaser
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0025 mean?
P0025 indicates that the engine's computer has detected an issue with the exhaust camshaft timing on Bank 2, specifically that it is over-retarded or delayed from its commanded position.
Can I drive with P0025?
Yes, for short trips only. You can drive your vehicle, but you should limit driving and get it fixed within a few days. Continued driving can lead to reduced power, poor fuel economy, and potential engine damage.
Will P0025 clear itself?
No, P0025 will not clear itself. The engine computer stores this code until the underlying issue is resolved and the code is manually cleared with a scan tool, or after several drive cycles without the fault recurring.
How do I fix P0025 myself?
Start by checking your engine oil level and condition. If the oil is low or dirty, change it. If that doesn't fix it, you can test or replace the VVT solenoid on Bank 2 exhaust. A multimeter and basic hand tools are required.
How much does it cost to fix P0025?
The cost to fix P0025 ranges from $50-$200 for DIY repairs (mostly for oil or a VVT solenoid) to $150-$500 if a professional mechanic does the work. If a camshaft phaser is needed, costs can exceed $700.
P0025 keeps coming back - why?
P0025 keeps coming back because the root cause was not fully addressed. This often happens if only the VVT solenoid was replaced, but the actual issue was low oil pressure, a clogged oil passage, or a failing camshaft phaser.
Will P0025 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0025 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on automatically fails the test, and the underlying timing issue can also lead to higher emissions.
What's the difference between P0025 and P0022?
P0025 indicates the exhaust camshaft on Bank 2 is over-retarded. P0022 indicates the intake camshaft on Bank 2 is over-retarded. Both point to timing issues on Bank 2, but for different camshafts.
P0025 on Toyota Camry
On many Toyota Camry models, P0025 is frequently caused by a faulty VVT solenoid or sludge buildup from infrequent oil changes. Always check oil level and quality first, then inspect or replace the exhaust VVT solenoid on Bank 2.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the engine oil level and condition before diagnosing the VVT system?
Good answer: Yes, that's always the first step. The oil was [level/condition], and we confirmed good oil pressure to the VVT system.
What were the live data readings for the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft position and VVT solenoid command?
Good answer: We saw the commanded position was X degrees, but the actual position was Y degrees, indicating it was stuck retarded. The solenoid's duty cycle was Z%.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$200
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$500
Save $100-$300 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate - Checking oil and replacing a VVT solenoid can be done by an intermediate DIYer, but diagnosing with a scan tool and multimeter requires some experience.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0025 can lead to significantly reduced fuel economy, poor engine performance, and increased emissions. If the timing issue is severe, it can cause misfires, sending unburned fuel to your catalytic converter. A $100 VVT solenoid job now prevents a $1,200-$2,500 catalytic converter replacement later.
While You're In There...
VVT systems are highly dependent on clean engine oil and proper oil pressure. Changing the oil and filter is a critical first step and good preventative maintenance.
If your oil is very sludgy, an engine flush can help clear oil passages that might be restricting VVT solenoid operation.
Tools You'll Need
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Multimeter
- OBD-II scan tool (with live data capability)
- Engine oil
- Oil filter (if changing oil)
P0025 is a common engine code related to your variable valve timing system. Most repairs are straightforward, often involving an oil change or a VVT solenoid replacement, and your engine will run much better afterward.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Check your engine oil level and condition. If it's low, top it off. If it's dirty, perform an oil and filter change. Clear the code and drive to see if it returns.
Step 2: If the code returns, locate the Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid. Inspect its wiring and connector. If they look good, test the solenoid's resistance with a multimeter. Compare to factory specs.
Step 3: If the solenoid tests bad or you suspect it's faulty, replace the Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid. You'll likely need a new VVT solenoid and potentially a new O-ring or gasket.