P0022 on Subaru: How to Diagnose & Fix
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 2)
1 Subaru model · 1 documented issue · $50-$500 repair
P0022 on Subaru by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The FA20 engine in the BRZ consumes oil at elevated rates during high-RPM driving, spirited canyon runs, and track use. The engine design with direct injection and high compression (12.5:1) combined with the oil-fed variable valve timing system means oil consumption increases significantly when the engine is frequently operated above 5,000 RPM. Consumption rates of 1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles are reported by owners who drive aggressively. The narrow oil galleries in the FA20 make proper oil level maintenance critical.
Common Symptoms
- Oil level drops noticeably after spirited driving or track days
- Low oil pressure warning during hard cornering (oil starvation)
- Oil consumption of 1 qt per 1,000-2,000 miles with aggressive driving
- Blue smoke under hard acceleration
- Oil level normal during city/highway commuting but drops during performance driving
How to Fix
Check oil level before and after every spirited drive or track day. Carry an extra quart of 0W-20 (OEM spec) or 5W-30 (commonly used upgrade for track use). For track cars, install an oil catch can (Radium Engineering 20-0255-02 or Crawford Performance V3) to reduce oil vapor entering the intake. Consider an oil cooler for track use. Subaru considers up to 1 qt per 3,000 miles as acceptable.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Subaru SOA427V1310 synthetic 0W-20 engine oil, 1 quart
2013-2020 Subaru BRZ FA20 according to the live product listing; for 2021 or any modified/track-use engine, confirm the current owner manual and oil specification before purchase.
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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 Subaru?
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 Subaru it is documented across 1 model: BRZ.
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 Subaru?
Published repair estimates on Subaru range from $50 to $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 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.