P0022 on BMW: How to Diagnose & Fix
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 2)
1 BMW model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $3,000-$32,000 repair
P0022 on BMW by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The S85 V10 uses a high-pressure VANOS pump to supply the oil pressure that moves the variable valve timing units. The pump works at about 115 bar. The high-pressure VANOS oil lines can leak at the fittings where the rigid metal pipe ends join the flexible hose section. A leak loses oil and lowers the pressure available to the VANOS system, and a parts seller warns this can lead to very expensive engine damage. BMW issued a service bulletin (SIB 11 10 05) to replace the VANOS high-pressure line on M5s produced up to 11/22/05. Buyer guides report that a failed line can starve the pump of pressure, which can cause the pump to fail and send metal debris through the engine. How much the repair costs depends on whether that debris has contaminated the rest of the engine. Low VANOS system pressure is the telltale sign of a leaking line.
Common Symptoms
- Rough idling and unstable idle speed
- Reduced power output and poor acceleration
- Poor fuel economy
- Rattling or grinding noise from engine bay at startup
- Oil leaks visible near front of engine (VANOS area)
- Check engine light with VANOS-related fault codes
How to Fix
Check first: look for oil leaks around the VANOS lines at the front of the engine, and have a shop check VANOS system pressure. Low pressure points to a leaking line. On early cars (built up to 11/22/05), check the service records for the SIB 11 10 05 line replacement, and ask any seller for records of VANOS line inspection or replacement. Fix: replace the leaking line with the current genuine BMW part. 11 36 7 838 670 is the pressure hose that runs from the pressure accumulator to the VANOS units. 11 36 7 838 669 is the hose that runs from the high-pressure oil pump to the other pressure hose. When you replace a line, also replace the crush washers at each end (4 in total) and, on the 838 669 hose, the O-ring at the top. The banjo bolts are cheap and optional. Getting to the 838 669 hose means removing the oil pan, so it is often replaced at the same time as the rod bearings. If the pump has failed and shed metal debris, the rest of the engine needs to be checked for contamination. Fix a known VANOS line leak promptly rather than driving on it. A published buyer guide puts VANOS high-pressure pump failure at $3,000 to $32,000, depending on whether debris has contaminated the rest of the engine.
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What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine BMW S85 VANOS oil line 11367838669OEM11367838669
The retailer specifies four 07119963129 copper washers and one 11367834552 O-ring as additional required items; verify VIN and the exact failed line..
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Sources for this issue (5)
P0022 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 P0022 mean on a BMW?
P0022 stands for "Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 2)." This code means the engine computer found that the intake camshaft on bank 2 is timed too far retarded — more delayed than it commanded through the variable valve timing (VVT) system. The computer adjusts cam timing using an oil-controlled actuator (a phaser) and an electric solenoid, then verifies the cam actually moved to the target position. When the intake cam on bank 2 lags behind its commanded position, this code sets, often causing rough idle, reduced power, or lower fuel economy. (Bank 2 is the cylinder bank that does not contain cylinder 1.) It usually traces back to oil flow, the VVT solenoid, or the phaser. On BMW it is documented across 1 model: M5.
What are the most common causes of P0022?
The most common causes of P0022 are: Low or dirty engine oil restricting VVT operation, Stuck or clogged camshaft (VVT) oil control solenoid, Clogged VVT oil passages or screen, Worn camshaft phaser/actuator on bank 2, Stretched or worn timing chain affecting cam timing, Electrical fault in the VVT solenoid wiring or connector, Incorrect oil viscosity or overdue oil change. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0022 on a BMW?
Published repair estimates on BMW range from $3,000 to $32,000 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.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.