P0020 moderate

Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit / Open (Bank 2)

The P0020 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit / Open (Bank 2). This is a moderate severity code.

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Keep driving?: Short distances only
DIY difficulty: moderate
Estimated cost: $50 - $400 (solenoid replacement $100-$300; wiring repair $50-$200)

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Common Symptoms

Check Engine Light on
Rough or unstable idle
Reduced engine power
Poor fuel economy
Engine may stall at low speeds

Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)

Faulty intake VVT solenoid (bank 2) Very High
Wiring issue -- open or short in VVT solenoid circuit High
Corroded or damaged connector at VVT solenoid Moderate
Low or dirty engine oil restricting solenoid operation Moderate
ECM/PCM internal fault Low

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

Check engine oil level and condition. Low or dirty oil can cause VVT solenoid screens to clog.
Locate the intake VVT solenoid on bank 2. Disconnect the connector and measure solenoid resistance with a multimeter (typically 6-13 ohms). Out of range indicates a failed solenoid.
With the solenoid disconnected, check for 12V power and ground at the connector using a test light or multimeter when commanded on by a scan tool.
Inspect the wiring harness between the PCM and VVT solenoid for chafing, breaks, or shorts. Pay attention to areas near hot exhaust components.
Remove the VVT solenoid and inspect the oil screen for debris or sludge. Clean or replace as needed.

Common Fixes by Vehicle

What techs usually find when diagnosing P0020 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:

2007-2014 GM 3.6L LLT/LFX (Traverse, Acadia, Enclave, CTS) Moderate DIY

Bank 2 (passenger side on transverse, rear on RWD) intake cam actuator solenoid fails due to oil contamination and internal coil degradation. Replace all four cam actuator solenoids as a set if mileage is over 80K — they fail in sequence. Verify oil level and use only dexos1 5W-30. If chain wear is present, the 3.6L is known to eat timing chains before 120K miles.

Labor: 1-2 hr

Common fix part ACDelco 12679099 Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid View on Amazon→ Compare fitment at PartsGeek→

2002-2015 Nissan VQ35/VQ37 (Altima, Maxima, 350Z, 370Z, Pathfinder) Moderate DIY

Bank 2 variable valve timing control solenoid (on the passenger side valve cover) fails, causing cold-start rattle and cam timing errors. Replace the VTC solenoid — it uses a copper gasket that must be replaced every time. If rattle persists for more than 2 seconds on cold start, the VTC cam sprocket/actuator itself has worn and must be replaced with the updated part.

Labor: 1 hr

Common fix part Nissan VTC Solenoid Valve 23796-EA20A View on Amazon→ Compare fitment at PartsGeek→

2008-2017 Chrysler/Dodge 3.6L Pentastar (300, Charger, Town & Country) Moderate DIY

Bank 2 intake cam solenoid connector gets oil-soaked from leaking solenoid o-rings, causing intermittent open-circuit signals. Clean the connector, replace the solenoid with updated p/n, and inspect the wiring harness for oil wicking. On higher-mileage Pentastars, a failed lifter or rocker can also drop oil pressure to the phaser.

Labor: 45 min

Common fix part Mopar Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid 5184294AE View on Amazon→ Compare fitment at PartsGeek→

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with code P0020?

You can drive short distances, but the engine will likely run rough and have reduced power since the VVT system on bank 2 is not functioning properly. Get it repaired within a few days to avoid excess wear.

What is a VVT solenoid actuator circuit?

The VVT (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid actuator circuit includes the solenoid, its wiring, connector, and the PCM driver. The PCM controls oil flow to the camshaft phaser by energizing the solenoid. An open circuit means there is a break somewhere preventing current flow.

How do I find bank 2 on my engine?

Bank 2 is the side of the engine opposite cylinder number 1. On most V6 and V8 engines, bank 1 is the side with cylinder 1 (often the driver side), and bank 2 is the opposite side. Check your service manual for your specific vehicle.