P0024 on Ford: How to Diagnose & Fix
Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 2)
2 Ford models · 2 documented issues · $500-$2,500 repair
P0024 on Ford by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The 6.2L gas V8 in the F-350 develops cam phaser rattle on startup as the phaser locking pins wear. Additionally, the exhaust manifold studs break due to thermal cycling, causing an exhaust leak.
Common Symptoms
- Cam phaser rattle on startup
- Ticking from exhaust manifold area
- Exhaust leak sound worse when cold
How to Fix
For cam phasers: replace both phasers, timing chains, and solenoids. Both jobs are labor-intensive due to engine bay size.
Sources for this issue (3)
Owners of the 6.2L Boss V8 report a knock or tick right after a cold start. Owners often blame worn cam phasers. The noise usually fades as oil pressure builds and the engine warms, and some owners say it gets worse with mileage. Several things can make this sound on the 6.2L. Owners of the same engine also describe a start-up tick that lasts only until oil reaches the hydraulic valve lifters (lash adjusters). Some owners call that version harmless, and others disagree. Ford also issued a bulletin, TSB 10-25-7, for an engine tick on early 6.2L trucks, including 2011 F-250/F-350 Super Duty trucks built from January 18 to September 7, 2010. That tick came with misfire codes, and its cause was ignition coil or plug-wire installation, worn rocker shaft rollers, or damaged cam lobes. A cold-start noise is not proof of a phaser failure, so the cause needs to be diagnosed before parts are replaced.
Common Symptoms
- Knocking on cold start
- Ticking noise at idle
- Check engine light
- Rough idle when cold
How to Fix
Check first: 1) Scan for stored codes. If there are misfire codes (P0300-P0308 or P0316) along with the tick, follow Ford TSB 10-25-7. Check that the coil-on-plugs and ignition wires are fully seated and reconnect any that are loose. If the noise stays, take off the valve covers and look at the rocker shaft rollers for flat spots or fatigue and the camshaft lobes for damage. Replace the rocker shaft(s) or camshaft(s) as needed. The bulletin says this repair is covered under the New Vehicle Limited and emissions warranties, and it lists labor of 0.7 hr for the coil and wire check up to 7.9 hr for both camshafts. 2) If there are no misfire codes and the noise lasts only until oil pressure comes up, owners report that this is often lifter (lash adjuster) tick. An oil change alone did not stop it for at least one owner. 3) Replace the cam phasers (and their oil-control solenoids) only after a technician confirms that the phasers are the source.
What you need to diagnose it
The repair instructions explicitly call for reading stored codes. Use a scanner that can read the named code families before choosing a repair.The recommended scanner supports these code families; confirm your exact year, model and module coverage before buying.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
Read & clear engine (P) codes
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Reading and clearing the code is DIY work. Module replacement or reprogramming is not — most modules are VIN-programmed, so a new one does nothing until a shop codes it to your car. Check for an open recall or service bulletin before buying anything.
Sources for this issue (3)
P0024 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 P0024 mean on a Ford?
P0024 stands for "Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 2)." This code means the exhaust camshaft on Bank 2 is timed more advanced (earlier) than the computer commanded. The variable valve timing system uses an oil-pressure-driven cam phaser and a control solenoid to set camshaft position; the computer compares the commanded position to the actual measured position. When the exhaust cam on Bank 2 reads too far advanced, P0024 sets. Bank 2 is the side of the engine not containing cylinder number one. Symptoms can include rough idle, reduced power, and poor fuel economy. On Ford it is documented across 2 models: F-350, F-250.
What are the most common causes of P0024?
The most common causes of P0024 are: Stuck-open or clogged variable valve timing (oil control) solenoid, Low or dirty engine oil, Failed exhaust camshaft phaser/actuator (Bank 2), Clogged oil control valve screen or oil passages, Stretched or worn timing chain, Wiring or connector fault at the VVT solenoid, Incorrect cam timing from prior service, Faulty PCM/ECM (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0024 on a Ford?
Published repair estimates on Ford range from $500 to $2,500 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.
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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.