Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced (Bank 2)
The P0024 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced (Bank 2). This is a moderate severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Short distances only
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- $50 - $1,200 (oil change vs. solenoid vs. phaser/chain replacement)
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Common Symptoms
- Check Engine Light illuminated
- Rough idle with possible engine vibration
- Hard starting, especially when warm
- Reduced engine power
- Increased exhaust emissions
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Low or degraded engine oil Very High
- Faulty exhaust VVT solenoid (bank 2) High
- Stuck exhaust camshaft phaser in advanced position Moderate
- Timing chain stretch affecting bank 2 exhaust cam Moderate
- Clogged oil galleries to the exhaust cam phaser Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Check engine oil level and condition. Top off or change oil if low, dirty, or the wrong viscosity. Clear codes and retest.
-
Use a scan tool to monitor bank 2 exhaust camshaft position. Compare actual vs. desired at idle and 2,500 RPM. Over-advanced by more than 5 degrees confirms the fault.
-
Remove and inspect the bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid for clogged screens or debris. Measure resistance (6-13 ohms typical).
-
Command the VVT solenoid with a scan tool and monitor cam position change. No movement suggests a stuck phaser or blocked oil passages.
-
Inspect the timing chain for excessive slack on bank 2. Check the tensioner and guides for wear.
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing P0024 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2007-2014 GM 3.6L LLT/LFX/LY7 (CTS, Traverse, Acadia, Enclave) Moderate DIY
Exhaust cam actuator solenoid on bank 2 sticks internally, preventing full advance/retard. Replace the solenoid on the rear of the cylinder head (passenger side in transverse applications). Use dexos1-spec 5W-30 full synthetic and change every 5,000 miles. These solenoids typically fail between 70K-110K on this engine family.
Labor: 1-1.5 hr2008-2013 Cadillac CTS/STS 3.6L Direct Injection Advanced DIY
In addition to the actuator solenoid, carbon buildup on intake valves restricts airflow and causes VVT phasers to respond slowly, triggering bank 2 exhaust correlation codes. Walnut-blast the intake valves every 80K miles and replace the cam solenoid. Use Top Tier gasoline and consider a catch can to reduce PCV-induced carbon buildup.
Labor: 4-6 hr2011-2018 Chrysler 3.6L Pentastar (Jeep Wrangler, Cherokee, Durango) Moderate DIY
Exhaust cam phaser on bank 2 loses oil pressure due to a failed oil filter housing (plastic housing cracks) or clogged OCV screen. Replace the cam solenoid, and if the top of the engine has been smelling like oil, replace the plastic oil filter housing with an aluminum aftermarket unit. Verify oil pressure to the head before condemning the phaser.
Labor: 2-3 hrFrequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code P0024?
You can drive short distances at moderate speeds. The over-advanced exhaust cam timing on bank 2 will cause rough running and reduced power. Avoid hard acceleration and have the vehicle diagnosed promptly.
Is P0024 serious?
It is moderately serious. While it will not cause immediate engine failure, running with incorrect exhaust cam timing can increase exhaust temperatures, reduce catalytic converter life, and cause poor engine performance over time.
Why does this code appear after an oil change?
If the wrong oil viscosity was used, the VVT system may not operate correctly. Also, if the engine had severe sludge buildup, an oil change can dislodge debris that clogs VVT solenoid screens. Verify the correct oil spec and check the solenoid screen.
Sources
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
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