P0022 on BMW: How to Diagnose & Fix
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 2)
4 BMW models · 4 documented issues · 1 critical · $100-$32,000 repair
P0022 on BMW by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The N55 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 engine in 435i and early 440i models experiences VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid failures. These solenoids control oil flow to the VANOS system for variable valve timing. Internal wear causes them to stick or fail, leading to rough running, power loss, and check engine lights. The intake VANOS solenoid (cylinder head front) fails more frequently than the exhaust solenoid. Oil contamination and sludge accelerate failure. This is a common issue shared with N55-powered 335i, 535i, and X5 35i models.
Common Symptoms
- Rough idle or engine stumble
- Check engine light with VANOS codes (P0011, P0012, P0021, P0022)
- Loss of power or poor throttle response
- Increased fuel consumption
- Cold start rough running that improves when warm
How to Fix
Replace failed VANOS solenoid(s). Both intake and exhaust solenoids should be inspected. Clean VANOS system if contaminated with sludge. Use high-quality full synthetic oil (BMW LL-01 spec) and maintain 7,500-mile oil change intervals to prevent premature failure. Some shops recommend replacing both solenoids preventively.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine BMW N55 VANOS solenoid valve 11368605123OEM11368605123
BMW catalogs quantity two but replace only the diagnosed failed position unless the repair plan calls for both; confirm VIN..
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Sources for this issue (1)
The S85 engine uses high-pressure VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) pump to supply necessary hydraulic pressure. The high-pressure VANOS lines were improperly routed without adequate bends to attach to VANOS pump, causing premature line failure and oil leaks. When VANOS line fails and leaks, it can starve VANOS pump of pressure, causing pump failure and sending metal debris throughout engine. This can escalate to CATASTROPHIC engine damage requiring complete engine replacement ($32,000). BMW settled class action lawsuit regarding VANOS failures and agreed to cover repairs for owners who reported issues before settlement cutoff date. M5Board warns: DO NOT ignore VANOS line leaks - this can destroy entire engine within weeks.
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
Replace high-pressure VANOS line with updated design that includes proper bend radius ($3,000 parts + labor). Replace VANOS high-pressure pump if showing signs of wear or contamination. DrVanos offers fully rebuilt S85 VANOS pumps ($1,800 + $400 core deposit) - M5Post gold standard for rebuilds. This repair is BEST performed simultaneously with rod bearing replacement to save on overlapping labor costs ($2,000-$4,000 savings). WARNING: DO NOT ignore VANOS line leaks - metal debris from failed pump circulates through entire lubrication system and can destroy engine. If catastrophic failure: engine replacement required ($32,000).
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 (1)
The S63 4.4L twin-turbo V8 in all generations of X5 M requires four VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoids to control variable camshaft timing on both intake and exhaust cams of both cylinder banks. These solenoids fail through coil malfunction, sticking from oil varnish, and O-ring deterioration, typically between 80,000-120,000 miles. When VANOS solenoids fail, the engine loses ability to optimize valve timing, causing rough idle, power loss, poor fuel economy, and check engine lights. The S63 uses VANOS solenoid part number 11368605123 (Pierburg OEM, N63/S63 compatible) or Genuine BMW 11368482268 for newer S63TU applications. Unlike the S85's catastrophic VANOS pump failure, S63 VANOS solenoid failure is annoying but not engine-threatening - and relatively inexpensive to fix.
Common Symptoms
- Rough or unstable idle with RPM fluctuations
- Reduced power output and sluggish acceleration
- Engine misfires under load
- Increased fuel consumption (10-20% higher than normal)
- Check engine light with VANOS-related fault codes
- Rattling or ticking noise from engine at startup (VANOS gear noise)
How to Fix
Replace all 4 VANOS solenoids simultaneously - they are same age and if one has failed, others are close behind. Pierburg 11368605123 (OEM supplier) at $30-$50 each from Turner Motorsport or BimmerWorld. Genuine BMW 11368482268 for S63TU applications at $50-$70 each. Total parts cost: $120-$280 for all 4 solenoids. Also replace VANOS solenoid O-rings and filter screens during service. Labor: 1-2 hours professional ($150-$400 labor). This is one of the easier S63 repairs - accessible from top of engine without removing intake manifold. Natafox and Febi also offer quality aftermarket VANOS solenoids at lower cost ($20-$35 each). Clean VANOS system with fresh oil change immediately after solenoid replacement.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine BMW VANOS solenoid 11368605123OEM11368605123
Fitment: 2010-2018 BMW X5 M E70/F85 S63 applications using 11368605123; confirm VIN, engine revision, bank/position, and the failed component.
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Sources for this issue (1)
The VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system on all E85 and E89 Z4 engines (M54, N52, N54, N20) suffers from solenoid failures, typically beyond 100,000 miles. The VANOS solenoids control oil flow to the variable camshaft timing adjustment units, and they fail through three primary modes: solenoid coil pack malfunction, sticking solenoid valves from oil varnish buildup, and deteriorating solenoid sealing plate rubber rings. When VANOS solenoids fail, the engine loses its ability to optimize valve timing, causing rough idle, power loss, poor fuel economy, and unusual engine noises. Z4-forum.com documents this as an extremely common issue across all E85 and E89 models. The good news: VANOS solenoids are inexpensive and relatively easy to replace - one of the simpler E85/E89 repairs.
Common Symptoms
- Rough or uneven idle with RPM fluctuations
- Noticeable loss of power during acceleration
- Engine misfires causing hesitation or jerking
- Rattling, ticking, or clicking noises from engine (especially at startup)
- Increased fuel consumption (10-15% higher than normal)
- Check engine light with VANOS-related fault codes (2A82, 2A87, 2A9A, 2A9F)
How to Fix
Replace VANOS solenoids - inexpensive and straightforward repair. M54 (E85 2003-2005): 2 solenoids required, BMW 11361707323 ($35-$65 each). N52 (E85 2006-2008 / E89 2009-2011 28i): 2 solenoids, BMW 11367585425 ($40-$70 each). N54 (E89 35i/35is): 2 solenoids, BMW 11367585425 ($40-$70 each). N20 (E89 sDrive28i 2012-2016): 2 solenoids, BMW 11367585425 ($40-$70 each). Labor: under 1 hour for experienced mechanic, 2-3 hours DIY. Replace all solenoids at once even if only one has failed - the others are same age and will fail soon. Also replace VANOS solenoid O-rings and sealing plates during service. Clean VANOS system with Beisan Systems VANOS cleaning procedure for best results.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Beisan BS001 double-VANOS seals repair kit
M54 internal double-VANOS seal repair after confirmed seal degradation. Confirm engine and internal VANOS diagnosis before ordering..
- Genuine BMW N52/N54 VANOS solenoid valve 11367585425OEM11367585425
Confirmed N52/N54 intake or exhaust VANOS solenoid replacement. Replace only the failed/test-confirmed unit or both when the repair decision specifically calls for it.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (1)
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 4 models: 4 Series, M5, X5 M, Z4.
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 $100 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.
Looking for P0022 on a different make?
View P0022 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.