P0019 – Meaning, Symptoms, Causes & How to Fix It

Q: How long can I drive with P0019 before fixing it?

There’s no exact mileage number, because it depends on what’s causing the code. If it’s just a sticky VVT solenoid, you may get away with driving for a while, but if a chain or guide is failing, every mile increases the risk of major damage. As a rule, limit driving to essential trips only and schedule diagnosis as soon as you can. If you hear rattling or feel severe misfires, stop driving and get it towed.

P0019 is one of those timing-related codes you should take seriously, but not panic over. It means your engine computer is seeing a mismatch between the crankshaft and camshaft positions on Bank 2, usually on the exhaust side. That can be as simple as a stretched timing chain or a sticky VVT (variable valve timing) solenoid, but it can also point to deeper mechanical wear. If you catch it early, you can usually avoid major engine damage. This guide walks you through what it means, symptoms, diagnosis, and realistic repair options.

What Does P0019 Mean?

DTC P0019 stands for “Crankshaft Position – Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor B).” In plain English, your ECU is comparing signals from the crankshaft position sensor and the camshaft position sensor on Bank 2, exhaust cam, and seeing they’re out of sync beyond the allowed range.

This usually points to a timing issue: a stretched chain or belt, worn timing components, a misaligned timing mark, or a problem in the variable valve timing (VVT) system. Sometimes it’s an electrical fault in a sensor or wiring, but mechanical causes are more common.

Quick Reference

Code: P0019
Meaning: Crank/Cam correlation fault, Bank 2 Sensor B (usually exhaust cam)
Severity: Moderate to severe – risk of engine damage if ignored
Common Causes: Stretched timing chain, bad cam phaser, dirty or failed VVT solenoid, incorrect timing
Typical Symptoms: Rough running, low power, hard starting, poor fuel economy, possible stalling

Real-World Example / Field Notes

In the shop, I see P0019 a lot on higher-mileage V6 and V8 engines with timing chains. A common scenario: the customer complains of rough idle and poor fuel economy, but the engine “still runs fine on the highway.” Scan shows P0019, sometimes with a cam position code. Live data reveals Bank 2 exhaust cam timing is lagging several degrees. Pulling the timing cover shows a stretched chain and worn guides. After replacing the chain set, phasers, and doing an oil change with the correct viscosity, the code disappears and the engine feels noticeably stronger and smoother.

Symptoms of P0019

Check engine light on: P0019 usually sets the MIL and may store as a pending code before turning the light on.
Rough idle: Unstable cam timing can cause shaking at idle, especially when warm.
Loss of power: Incorrect valve timing reduces torque and overall performance, most noticeable on acceleration.
Poor fuel economy: The ECU can’t optimize timing, so you burn more fuel for the same power.
Hard starting: Out-of-sync timing can make the engine crank longer before it fires.
Stalling or hesitation: In severe cases, the engine may stumble, hesitate, or stall when coming to a stop.
Rattling noise on startup: A timing chain rattle on cold start often points to stretched chain or worn guides/tensioners.

Common Causes of P0019

Most Common Causes

Stretched timing chain or worn belt: Over time, chains stretch and belts wear, throwing off crank-to-cam correlation on Bank 2.
Worn or failed cam phaser (VVT actuator): A sticking or internally worn phaser can leave the cam advanced or retarded when it shouldn’t be.
Faulty or dirty VVT solenoid (oil control valve): Sludge or varnish can block oil flow, preventing proper cam timing adjustment.
Incorrect engine timing after repair: If a timing chain/belt job was done and marks weren’t aligned perfectly, P0019 can set soon after.
Low or incorrect engine oil: VVT relies on clean oil at the correct viscosity; low level or wrong oil can cause slow or erratic cam movement.

Less Common Causes

Faulty camshaft position sensor (Bank 2, exhaust): A weak or intermittent sensor signal can mimic a mechanical timing issue.
Faulty crankshaft position sensor: Less common, but a bad crank sensor can cause correlation codes including P0019.
Damaged timing chain guides or tensioner: Broken guides or a collapsed tensioner allow chain slack, especially at startup.
Wiring or connector issues: Corroded, chafed, or loose wiring to the cam or crank sensor can distort signals.
ECU software or internal fault: Rare, but some vehicles require an ECU update or, in extreme cases, ECU replacement.

Diagnosis: Step-by-Step Guide

To diagnose P0019 properly, you’ll want at least a decent scan tool (with live data and Mode $06), a basic multimeter, and access to service information for your specific engine. An oscilloscope is ideal for advanced signal checks, but not mandatory for most DIY work.

Confirm the code and check for companions: Scan for all stored and pending codes. Note any additional VVT, cam, or crank sensor codes (like P0008–P0018). This helps narrow down whether it’s electrical or mechanical.
Check oil level and condition: Verify the engine oil is at the correct level and not thick, dirty, or sludged. If it’s overdue, change it with the manufacturer-recommended grade and a quality filter.
Visual inspection of wiring and connectors: Inspect cam and crank sensor connectors on Bank 2, plus the VVT solenoid. Look for oil intrusion, broken tabs, corrosion, or rubbed-through harness sections.
Monitor live data for cam/crank correlation: With a scan tool, look at camshaft actual vs. desired angle on Bank 2, especially at idle and around 2,000 rpm. A large or unstable difference suggests mechanical or VVT issues.
Command VVT tests (if supported): Many bi-directional scan tools let you command cam advance/retard. If the commanded change doesn’t show up on the cam angle PID, suspect a stuck phaser or bad solenoid.
Test VVT solenoid operation: Unplug the Bank 2 VVT solenoid, measure resistance, and compare to spec. You can also bench test with 12V and observe movement (if the design allows). Replace if out of spec or stuck.
Inspect for timing chain/belt issues: Listen for rattles at cold start. On many engines you can remove an inspection cover or valve cover to check chain slack, guide condition, and timing marks alignment.
Check cam and crank sensor signals: If mechanical components look good, test sensors. Use a multimeter for basic power/ground checks and, if available, an oscilloscope to verify clean, consistent signal patterns.
Verify mechanical timing alignment: For persistent P0019 with no clear electrical fault, lock the engine at TDC and verify timing marks on both crank and Bank 2 cam sprockets. Any misalignment points to stretched chain, slipped belt, or incorrect previous repair.
Review Mode $06 data: Some ECUs store detailed VVT performance data in Mode $06. Look for Bank 2 exhaust timing tests that are close to or exceeding limits.

Pro tip: If you have both Bank 1 and Bank 2 data available, compare them side by side. A healthy bank becomes your “known good” reference and makes spotting Bank 2 timing issues much easier.

Possible Fixes & Repair Costs

Fixing P0019 can range from simple to fairly involved, depending on what you find during diagnosis. Parts and labor costs vary widely by engine design and local labor rates, but here are typical scenarios.

Oil change and VVT cleaning: If sludge or incorrect oil is the main issue, a proper oil change and sometimes a gentle engine flush can restore VVT function. Cost: roughly $60–$150.
Replace VVT solenoid (oil control valve): Often accessible on top or front of the engine. Parts and labor usually run $150–$350 per solenoid.
Replace camshaft or crankshaft position sensor: Sensors are generally not expensive and fairly easy to access. Expect $120–$300 installed, depending on vehicle.
Timing chain or belt replacement with guides/tensioner: This is the big one. On many V6/V8 engines, a full timing set with phasers, guides, and tensioners can run $800–$2,000+ in a professional shop, depending on complexity and parts quality.
Cam phaser replacement: Sometimes done along with the timing set. If done alone, expect $500–$1,200 including labor.
Wiring repair: Fixing a damaged harness or corroded connector can range from $100–$400, depending on how deep the harness is buried.

Typical repair cost ranges for P0019 are about $150 on the low end (simple sensor or solenoid) up to $2,000 or more for full timing chain service. Factors that affect cost include engine layout (transverse vs. longitudinal), number of timing components, whether the engine must be lifted or removed, and whether you replace just the failed part or the whole timing set as preventative maintenance.

Can I Still Drive With P0019?

You can usually drive short distances with P0019 if the engine still runs reasonably well, but it’s not something you should ignore for long. Mild cases may only cause a check engine light and slight performance loss, but if the timing chain is severely stretched or a phaser is sticking, things can go downhill quickly. Driving hard, towing, or long highway trips with a known timing correlation issue increases the risk of serious engine damage. If you notice rattling noises, heavy misfires, or stalling, avoid driving and have the vehicle towed.

What Happens If You Ignore P0019?

If you ignore P0019, a minor timing or VVT issue can turn into major mechanical damage. A stretched chain or failed guide can eventually let the chain jump teeth, causing valves to hit pistons on interference engines. That can bend valves, damage pistons, and require a full engine rebuild or replacement. Even if it doesn’t get that far, you’ll live with poor fuel economy, reduced power, and increased emissions. Addressing the problem early is almost always cheaper than waiting.

Related Codes

P0027 – Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Range/Performance Bank 1
P0026 – Intake Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Range/Performance Bank 1
P0018 – Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor A
P0017 – Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor B
P0016 – Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor A
P0009 – Engine Position System Performance Bank 2
P0008 – Engine Position System Performance Bank 1
P0007 – Fuel Shutoff Valve “A” Control Circuit High
P0006 – Fuel Shutoff Valve “A” Control Circuit Low
P0005 – Fuel Shutoff Valve “A” Control Circuit/Open

Key Takeaways

P0019 means the ECU sees the Bank 2 exhaust cam and crankshaft out of proper alignment.
Most common causes are stretched timing chains, worn phasers, dirty or failed VVT solenoids, and incorrect timing after repairs.
Symptoms include a check engine light, rough idle, low power, poor fuel economy, and sometimes rattling noises.
Diagnosis should start with oil and basic inspections, then move to scan tool data, VVT tests, and mechanical timing checks.
Repair costs range widely, from around $150 for simple fixes to over $2,000 for full timing chain service.
Driving with P0019 for long periods is risky; catching it early can save your engine and your wallet.

Vehicles Commonly Affected by P0019

P0019 shows up most often on multi-cam engines with timing chains, especially V6 and V8 layouts. In real-world shop work, you’ll frequently see it on:

GM / Chevrolet / GMC: 3.6L V6 (Acadia, Traverse, Equinox, Terrain, Camaro), some V8 trucks and SUVs.
BMW: Inline-6 and V8 engines with VANOS and Valvetronic systems, often when oil changes are neglected.
Mercedes-Benz: V6 and V8 engines with chain stretch or worn guides.
Hyundai / Kia: GDI engines with VVT issues or oil-related timing problems.
Ford / Lincoln: Some EcoBoost and modular V8 engines with phaser and chain wear.
Other imports: Various Audi, VW, and Nissan/Infiniti V6/V8 engines with chain stretch or VVT faults.

That said, any modern engine with variable valve timing and multiple cam sensors can set P0019 if timing or sensor signals get out of line.

FAQ

Can P0019 be caused by low oil?

Yes, low oil level or using the wrong oil viscosity can absolutely contribute to P0019. The VVT system uses oil pressure to move the cam phasers. If the oil is low, dirty, or too thick, the phasers may move slowly or not at all, causing the ECU to see a timing mismatch. Always verify oil level and quality early in the diagnostic process.

Is P0019 serious enough to damage my engine?

P0019 can be serious if the underlying cause is mechanical, like a stretched chain or broken guide. If the timing slips far enough, valves and pistons can collide on interference engines, leading to very expensive repairs. While the car might still run, it’s smart to treat this code as a priority and avoid long trips or hard driving until it’s diagnosed.

How do I know if it’s the sensor or the timing chain?

You can’t tell just by the code alone. A good approach is to check live data for cam angle, listen for chain noise, and inspect oil condition. If the engine rattles on startup, has high mileage, and both Bank 1 and Bank 2 show timing issues, the chain is suspect. If everything is quiet and only one bank shows a problem, testing or swapping sensors between banks (where possible) can help confirm a bad sensor.

Can I clear P0019 and keep driving if it goes away?

<pYou can clear the code and see if it returns, but don’t assume the problem is gone just because the light turns off. Intermittent timing or VVT issues often come back under certain conditions, like hot oil or higher RPM. If P0019 reappears, or if you notice any drivability changes, you should treat it as a real issue and have it checked properly.

How long can I drive with P0019 before fixing it?