P0019 on Mercedes-Benz: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor B
2 Mercedes-Benz models · 2 documented issues · 1 critical · $250-$6,500 repair
P0019 on Mercedes-Benz by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The M278 4.7L biturbo V8 used in the GLE 550 4MATIC (W166/C292) has a complex timing drive with one primary chain and two secondary chains, each with its own tensioner. On early engines the secondary chain tensioners lose oil pressure during shutdown because they lack anti-drainback check valves, so on cold start the chains and camshaft adjusters run momentarily dry and rattle loudly for the first 2-5 seconds until oil pressure builds. Left unaddressed, chain slack, worn guide rails, and worn camshaft adjusters can advance to camshaft-correlation faults and, in the worst case, timing jump. This is distinct from the M276 V6 camshaft-adjuster rattle: it is the V8 M278's multi-chain oil-starvation design, and Mercedes issued a service fix (TSB LI05.10-P-056435) adding oil check valves plus revised secondary tensioners for engines up to a specific engine-number cutoff (278 9xx).
Common Symptoms
- Loud rattle or chatter for the first 2-5 seconds on cold start
- Metallic timing-chain/rattle noise from front of engine
- Check engine light with camshaft/crankshaft correlation codes in worse cases
- Noise diminishes once oil pressure builds
How to Fix
Install the revised secondary timing chain tensioners together with the oil anti-drainback check valves in the cylinder-head oil passages per the Mercedes service procedure; inspect and replace worn chain guide rails and the camshaft adjuster (solenoid) units as needed. If the primary chain is stretched, a full timing chain/guide service is required. Verify no cam/crank correlation codes remain after repair.
Sources for this issue (4)
The gasoline X166 GLS engines - M276 3.0 biturbo V6 (GLS 450), M278 4.7 biturbo V8 (GLS 550) and M157 5.5 biturbo V8 (AMG GLS 63) - share a well-documented failure where the seals inside the camshaft adjuster magnets (solenoids) and camshaft position sensors give up and pressurized oil is pushed into the sensor's electrical connector. From there the oil wicks along the wire strands into the main engine harness and can reach the ECU and other connectors. Early signs are oil in the cam-magnet plug and a wet valve-cover area; if ignored it produces cam-timing faults (P0016-family and P06DA-type codes), rough running and a harness or ECU replacement bill. MBWorld threads document dealers resealing solenoids under warranty and owners asking Mercedes for a campaign that was never issued.
Common Symptoms
- Oil inside camshaft magnet or cam sensor electrical connector
- Oil seeping at the front of the valve cover
- Check engine light with camshaft correlation codes
- Rough idle or misfire after oil reaches other connectors
- Oil found inside ECU connector
How to Fix
Replace the leaking camshaft adjuster magnet(s) and/or cam sensor with the current revised part and, if any oil is in the connector, install the Mercedes harness-extension 'pigtail' repair sections so the contaminated section is cut out and the oil cannot migrate further. Check the connectors at every oil change on these engines. Solenoid plus pigtail is about $250-600 per position; if the harness or ECU is already saturated, $2,000-4,500. No recall or extended warranty exists.
Sources for this issue (4)
P0019 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0019 mean on a Mercedes-Benz?
P0019 stands for "Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor B." This code means the engine computer detected that the crankshaft and camshaft positions on bank 2 (sensor B, typically the exhaust camshaft) are out of their expected correlation — in other words, the cam and crank timing don't line up correctly. The computer compares the crankshaft and camshaft position sensor signals to verify valve timing, which is often controlled by a variable valve timing (VVT) actuator. A correlation error points to mistimed valve events, frequently from oil-flow or VVT issues, a stretched timing chain, or sensor faults. You may notice rough idle, reduced power, poor fuel economy, or a check-engine light, and ignoring it can risk engine damage. On Mercedes-Benz it is documented across 2 models: GLE, GLS.
What are the most common causes of P0019?
The most common causes of P0019 are: Stretched or worn timing chain (and worn guides/tensioner), Faulty variable valve timing (VVT) actuator/solenoid (Bank 2), Low oil level or dirty/sludged oil restricting VVT flow, Faulty camshaft or crankshaft position sensor, Clogged VVT oil control valve screen, Damaged sensor wiring or connector, Jumped/misaligned timing during prior service. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0019 on a Mercedes-Benz?
Published repair estimates on Mercedes-Benz range from $250 to $6,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0019 on a different make?
View P0019 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.