Error P0020 – how to fix it?

Setting the P0020 Code

Drive circuit for camshaft position (A) (Bank 2)

What does P0020 mean

P0020 is a generic OBD-II code that indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has determined that the oil control valve (OCV) on the intake camshaft on bank 2 has an open or shorted circuit. This occurs during the drive cycle.

What is the cause of the P0020 code?

• The ECM has commanded the OCV to less than 80% of the duty cycle, and the output is 100%.
• ECM commanded OCV at 70%, and throughput is less than 3%.
• The OCV exhaust camshaft or bank 1 wires may be shorted.
• The OCV valve may have an open circuit or the wiring is leaking.

What are the symptoms of the P0020 code?

• Engine control light comes on.
• If the OCV valve is shorted, the engine may have difficulty starting.
• If the OCV valve is shorted or open, the engine will get less fuel mileage.
• The engine may run erratically on failure or shutdown depending on whether it has a shorted or open OCV circuit.

Note: Symptoms vary depending on the camshaft position when the variable valve timing (VVT) system stops working.

How can a mechanic diagnose the P0020 code?

• Visually check the electrical connectors, wiring harness and OCV valve for any problems.
• Check computer codes and then document the freeze frame data for the code.
• The vehicle is tested to see if the codes return.
• It checks that the OCV valve resistance is about 6.9 to 7.9 ohms.
• Tracks and repairs any short circuits or open circuits in the wiring.
• Verify installation according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

Note: If the above checks fail, perform the manufacturer’s recommended reference test to mitigate the problem.

The most common errors when diagnosing the P0020 code.

Follow these simple tips to help diagnose and avoid errors:

1. Perform a visual inspection for common problems, such as checking that electrical connectors are connected.
2. Check that the engine oil has the correct viscosity and is not clogged.
3. Check for trouble codes before repair.
4. Always follow the manufacturer’s procedures to avoid replacing components that require repair or misdiagnosing the fault code.

How serious is the P0020 code?

• The engine may have difficulty accelerating.
• The engine’s fuel consumption may deteriorate.
• If the engine is not repaired as soon as possible, carbon can be deposited on valves and piston rings.

What repairs can clear the P0020 code?

1. Clear error codes and test the system to verify the code.
2. Repair or replace oil control valve wiring from intake camshaft to bank 2.
3. Replace camshaft oil control valve for intake camshaft bank 2.
4. Replace the ECM if indicated by location testing.

Additional notes on code P0020

The code may be caused by a shorted or open internal OCV circuit. This code may be accompanied by code P0021 or P0022.