P0020: "A" Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 2)
The engine computer sees an electrical fault in the circuit for the bank 2 "A" cam timing solenoid on a V6 or V8.
What P0020 means
P0020 is the bank 2 match for P0010. The engine computer sends a pulse width signal to the bank 2 "A" oil control solenoid, usually for the intake cam, and watches the circuit. When the circuit is open or not behaving electrically, it sets P0020. RepairPal lists wiring issues, a failed actuator and a computer fault as causes, with an oil and filter change listed as a common first repair. KBB warns the engine may stall often, both at idle and when accelerating, which can make driving unsafe on busy roads. The most likely parts are the solenoid coil and its connector, which can fill with oil when the solenoid seal leaks. Shops measure the solenoid resistance, check for power and the control signal, and command the solenoid with a scan tool while listening for a click. If the bank 1 solenoid is the same part, swapping them is a quick test. A wiring repair or new solenoid usually clears the code.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Stalling at idle or on acceleration
- Rough idle
- Reduced power
- Worse fuel economy
Most common causes
- Failed bank 2 oil control solenoid
- Open or shorted wiring
- Oil filled or corroded connector
- Variable valve timing actuator failure
- Engine computer driver fault (rare)
What to check yourself first
Find the bank 2 timing solenoid on the cylinder head opposite cylinder 1 and inspect the connector for oil or damage. Check the oil level. Measure solenoid resistance if you have a spec.
Typical fixes and what they cost
| Fix | Typical cost | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Replace variable valve timing (oil control) solenoid | $469-$594 | The usual fix for an open solenoid circuit. |
| Electrical diagnosis to find a wiring or connector fault | $122-$179 | For wiring or connector faults. |
| Oil and filter change with the correct oil | $160-$188 | RepairPal lists an oil and filter change as a common first repair. Use the exact oil viscosity your engine calls for. |
| Replace engine control module (ECM/PCM) | $1,122-$1,192 | Only if the computer output is confirmed bad. |
Typical US price ranges for parts and labor, not quotes. Your shop should confirm the cause with a diagnostic before replacing parts.
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Related codes
- P0021 "A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 2)
- P0010 "A" Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 1)
- P0018 Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor A)
- P0345 Camshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit (Bank 2)
- P0022