P0024 on Nissan: How to Diagnose & Fix
Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 2)
1 Nissan model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $1,000-$2,500 repair
P0024 on Nissan by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
P0016 is one of the most well-documented Altima powertrain failures and is a hallmark of the 2.5L QR25DE (it also affects the 3.5L V6). The ECM sets P0016 when the camshaft (Bank 1, Sensor A) and crankshaft signals fall out of their expected relationship. On the Altima this is most often caused by a physically stretched timing chain combined with worn plastic timing-chain guide rails and a failing chain tensioner: as the chain slackens, cam timing drifts and the correlation code sets. A contributing root cause is sludge building up behind the primary drive gear, which starves the tensioner of oil pressure and lets the chain slap. The classic early warning is a rattle from the front of the engine on cold start that worsens over time. Related VVT/correlation codes (P0011/P0021/P0024) often accompany it. If ignored, a jumped chain can cause valve-to-piston contact and catastrophic engine damage.
Common Symptoms
- Rattle/tapping from front of engine on cold start
- Check engine light
- Rough idle and hesitation
- Hard starting
- Reduced power and fuel economy
How to Fix
Verify oil level/condition and rule out a sludged tensioner or bad camshaft position sensor first. The accepted repair is a full timing chain service: replace the timing chain, both guide rails, the tensioner, and the VVT/oil-control components as needed, and clean sludge from behind the drive gear. Use correct-viscosity oil and proper change intervals afterward to prevent recurrence.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Cloyes 9-4212SC QR25DE timing-chain kit
2007-2009 Altima 2.5L QR25DE including listed sedan/coupe trims; verify VIN and production date.
- A-Premium APTCK187 eight-piece QR25DE timing-chain kit
2014-2018 Altima 2.5L QR25DE and listed trims; verify VIN/production date and kit contents.
- Melling 3-730SHWP VQ35DE timing-chain kit with water pump
2007-2014 Altima 3.5L VQ35DE; verify VIN, production date and included components.
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Sources for this issue (4)
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 Nissan?
P0024 stands for "Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (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 Nissan it is documented across 1 model: Altima.
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 Nissan?
Published repair estimates on Nissan range from $1,000 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.
Looking for P0024 on a different make?
View P0024 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.