P0019 on 2012-2017 Hyundai Azera 3.3L V6: Causes and Fixes for Cam/Crank Correlation

What's Unique About the 2012-2017 Hyundai Azera

The 3.3L Lambda II GDI engine in the Azera uses a Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) system that is highly dependent on oil pressure to function correctly. While the P0019 code is generic, on this platform it frequently points to either a simple oil issue or a failing Oil Control Valve (OCV). However, these engines can also be prone to timing chain stretch and tensioner failure at higher mileage (over 100,000 miles), making P0019 a potential early warning for a more significant and expensive repair. A rattling noise on startup is a key symptom pointing towards a timing chain issue.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Rough or unstable idle
• Engine hesitation or stumbling during acceleration
• Reduced fuel economy
• Engine may stall at low speeds
• In some cases, the engine may be hard to start or may not start at all
• Rattling noise from the engine on startup, especially when cold
• Engine may enter 'limp mode' with reduced power

Most Likely Causes

1. Low or Dirty Engine Oil 🔴 High Probability The CVVT system uses hydraulic pressure to adjust cam timing. Insufficient or contaminated oil can prevent the phasers and solenoids from operating correctly, which is a very common trigger for this code. 🎬 See this helpful overview of camshaft correlation causes and fixes.
   How to confirm: Check the engine oil dipstick for proper level. Inspect the oil's color and consistency; it should not be black, gritty, or milky. Ensure the correct viscosity (5W-30) is being used.
   Typical fix: Perform an oil and filter change using a high-quality full-synthetic 5W-30 oil and an OEM filter. In many documented cases, this alone resolves the code.
   Est. part cost: $40-$80
2. Faulty Oil Control Valve (OCV) / VVT Solenoid 🔴 High Probability The OCV is an electronic solenoid that is constantly working. It can become clogged with sludge or fail electrically over time, which is a common failure point for this code on Lambda engines.
   How to confirm: Swap the Bank 2 exhaust OCV with the Bank 2 intake OCV. Clear the codes and drive. If the code changes to P0018 (for the intake cam), the OCV is bad. You can also test its resistance with a multimeter (typically 6.9-7.9 ohms). 🎬 Watch: How to test sensors using a multimeter.
   Typical fix: Replace the Bank 2 (front bank) exhaust Oil Control Valve. It is located on the front valve cover and is the rearmost of the two solenoids.
   Est. part cost: $50-$120
3. Faulty Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Engine Camshaft Position Sensor Sensors can fail electronically over time, sending incorrect data to the ECM. While less common than an OCV failure, it's a frequent misdiagnosis.
   How to confirm: Swap the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft sensor with the sensor from another position (e.g., Bank 1 exhaust). If the code changes (e.g., to P0017), the sensor is faulty. A YouTube video for a 2013 Azera shows this replacement, though the user was replacing it at the customer's request without full diagnosis. 🎬 Watch: Step-by-step walkthrough for replacing the camshaft position sensor.
   Typical fix: Replace the Bank 2 (front bank) exhaust camshaft position sensor.
   Est. part cost: $60-$150
4. Stretched Timing Chain or Failed Tensioner ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Engine Timing Chain This is a known issue on higher mileage (100,000+ miles) Lambda V6 engines. Wear can cause slack in the chain, or the hydraulic tensioner can fail to maintain pressure, leading to correlation errors.
   How to confirm: This is a difficult diagnosis. A common symptom is a rattling noise from the engine on startup that lasts for a few seconds. Confirmation requires significant disassembly to physically inspect the chain, guides, and tensioners for slack or wear.
   Typical fix: Replace the timing chains, tensioners, and guides. This is a labor-intensive job, often costing over $2,000.
   Est. part cost: $400-$800

Rare But Worth Checking

• Failed Camshaft Phaser (CVVT Actuator): → Shop Engine Camshaft The gear on the end of the camshaft that actually adjusts the timing can fail mechanically, getting stuck in one position. A case on a 2012 Azera 3.3L with a P0018 code was resolved by replacing the camshaft due to a broken pin on the phaser.
• Wiring or Connector Issue: The wiring harness to the OCV or camshaft sensor can become damaged, causing an intermittent or lost signal. Check for frayed wires, corrosion at the connectors, or loose pins.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check Engine Oil: Verify the oil level is correct and the oil is clean. If low or dirty, perform an oil and filter change with a high-quality 5W-30 synthetic oil and OEM filter, clear the code, and drive to see if it returns. This is the most important first step.
2. Scan Tool Data: Use a scan tool to observe the live data for commanded vs. actual camshaft angle for Bank 2 Exhaust. A significant deviation or a lazy response points to a problem in the CVVT system.
3. Listen for Noise: Start the engine when it's cold and listen for a brief (2-3 second) rattling sound. This is a strong indicator of a failing timing chain tensioner.
4. Inspect Wiring: Visually inspect the wiring and connector for the Bank 2 exhaust camshaft sensor and the Oil Control Valve (OCV) for any signs of damage, oil contamination, or corrosion.
5. Test the OCV: Swap the Bank 2 exhaust OCV with the Bank 2 intake OCV. They are located next to each other on the front valve cover. Clear codes and test drive. If the code changes to P0018, the OCV is faulty and needs replacement.
6. Test the Camshaft Sensor: If the OCV is good, perform a similar swap test with the camshaft position sensor, moving it to another bank (e.g., Bank 1 exhaust) to see if the code follows (to P0017).
7. Mechanical Timing Inspection: If all sensors and solenoids test good, the issue is likely mechanical. A professional will need to inspect the timing chain, tensioners, and phasers for wear or failure. This is an advanced, labor-intensive diagnosis.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Oil Control Valve (Bank 2 Exhaust) (OEM #24375-3L100) — This solenoid is the most common point of failure for P0019 after ruling out oil issues. It gets stuck or fails electrically.
  Trusted brands: Hyundai/Kia (OEM), Dorman
  OEM price range: $80-$120
  Aftermarket price range: $40-$70
• Camshaft Position Sensor (Bank 2 Exhaust) (OEM #39350-3L100) — If the OCV is not the cause, the sensor providing the position data to the ECM is the next most likely component to have failed.
  Trusted brands: Hyundai/Kia (OEM), Bosch, NTK, Duralast (SU8700)
  OEM price range: $90-$150
  Aftermarket price range: $60-$100
• Timing Chain Kit — In high-mileage cases, or if a startup rattle is present, the timing chain may have stretched, requiring a full replacement of chains, guides, and tensioners.
  Trusted brands: Hyundai/Kia (OEM)
  OEM price range: $400-$800
  Aftermarket price range: $250-$500

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0018 — This is the correlation code for the intake camshaft on the same bank (Bank 2). If you swap a faulty exhaust OCV with the intake OCV during diagnosis, P0019 will be replaced by P0018, confirming the OCV is the problem. Seeing both P0018 and P0019 together can point to a larger issue on Bank 2, like a secondary timing chain problem.
• P0017 — This is the correlation code for the exhaust camshaft on Bank 1. If you swap a faulty Bank 2 exhaust camshaft sensor with the Bank 1 exhaust sensor, the code may change to P0017, confirming a bad sensor.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• TSB 23-EM-008H: While not specific to P0019, this TSB details Hyundai's procedure for diagnosing and repairing engine oil consumption issues, which can be a root cause of low oil pressure that triggers CVVT-related codes.
• TSB 15-01-022-1: This TSB for the 2015 Sonata with 2.0T/2.4L engines addresses a P0010 code caused by an improperly seated oil seal plug in the intake camshaft actuator. While a different engine and c

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A user on a Hyundai forum with a 2014 Santa Fe (same engine) experienced a persistent P0019 even after replacing the OCV and sensor. The ultimate cause was a failed oil pump chain tensioner that sent debris through the engine, clogging the new OCV.
• In a YouTube video, a mechanic replaced the camshaft position sensors on a 2013 Azera for a P0019 code at the customer's request, highlighting it as a common, though not always correct, first step.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Oil Control Valve (OCV) Solenoid Resistance — expected: 6.9 - 7.9 Ohms at 68°F (20°C) for Denso-supplied parts. Some Delphi suppliers may have a range of 6.7 - 7.7 Ohms.. Failure: A reading of infinity (open circuit) or near-zero (short circuit) indicates a failed solenoid coil.
• Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) Signal Voltage — expected: With the sensor connected and ignition on, the signal wire should read approximately 4.8-5.0 volts. When a metal object (like a socket) is placed near the sensor tip, the voltage should drop to near 0 volts.. Failure: If the voltage does not switch between ~5V and 0V when metal is introduced and removed, the sensor is faulty.
• Camshaft vs. Crankshaft Waveform Correlation — expected: Using an oscilloscope at idle, the PCM recognizes synchronization when the high signal of the Bank 2 exhaust CMPS aligns with the 17th signal of the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKPS) after its missing tooth.. Failure: A deviation from this alignment indicates a mechanical timing issue (e.g., stretched chain) or a failing phaser.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Hyundai GDS (Global Diagnostic System): Actuation Test: 'CVVT Oil Control Valve' — This bidirectional command allows a technician to manually activate the Bank 2 exhaust OCV while the engine is running. A healthy valve and phaser will cause the engine idle to stumble or stall, confirming the solenoid is working. If there is no change in engine operation, the OCV is likely faulty or the oil passage is blocked.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• GE05 — Left rear of the engine compartment.. This is a primary engine ground point. A loose or corroded connection at GE05 can cause erratic behavior and incorrect readings from various engine sensors, including the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors, potentially leading to a false P0019 code.
• Bank 2 Exhaust Camshaft Position Sensor Connector — On the front cylinder bank (Bank 2), which is closer to the radiator. It is the rearmost of the two sensors on the valve cover.. This is the direct electrical connection for the sensor triggering the code. The connector and its wiring are common points for damage from heat, oil contamination, or vibration, causing a loss of signal.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube video by 'SOLVED' (2013 Hyundai Azera V6 3.3L) — Check Engine Light with P0019 code.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) The owner requested to bypass diagnostics and proceed directly with parts replacement.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The video documents the replacement of both Bank 1 and Bank 2 camshaft position sensors at the customer's request to resolve the P0019 code. While not a proper diagnosis, it highlights a common (though not always correct) repair attempt.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 39350-3E110 → 39350-3L100 — Part update and consolidation for newer models. The 39350-3E110 was used on older 2.7L engines but has been superseded for many applications by the -3L100 part used in the Lambda II V6.
  Heads up: Using the older 39350-3E110 sensor in a vehicle specified for 39350-3L100 may result in incorrect readings or premature failure. Always verify the part number with the vehicle's VIN.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Other Known Issues on This Vehicle

Issues unrelated to this code that are worth knowing about as an owner of this generation:

• Steering Problems (Wandering/Veering) 🟠 Medium — A notable number of NHTSA complaints (35+) for the 2012-2017 model years relate to steering issues, including pulling to one side or a feeling of looseness.
• Timing Chain Tensioner Wear 🔴 High → Shop Engine Timing Chain — Commonly occurs at higher mileage (80,000-150,000 miles). Manifests as a startup rattle. If ignored, can lead to timing chain failure and catastrophic engine damage.
• Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves 🟠 Medium — As a Direct Injection (GDI) engine, the intake valves are not cleaned by fuel spray. Over time (60,000+ miles), carbon can build up, causing reduced performance and misfires. Some forum users note Hyundai's injection strategy may mitigate this compared to other GDI engines.
• Brake System Recall (ABS Module) 🔴 High — A recall (NHTSA #23V651000) was issued for potential electrical shorts in the ABS module that could lead to an engine compartment fire, even when the car is off. (Ref: 23V651000)
• Starter Failure 🟡 Low — Some owner complaints mention premature starter failure, leading to a no-start condition. Not widespread but a documented point of failure.

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide for This Vehicle

When a used part is the smart pick: A used Oil Control Valve (OCV) or Camshaft Position Sensor can be a cost-effective choice, especially if sourced from a low-mileage, reputable salvage yard. These are not high-wear mechanical parts and often have significant life remaining.

Donor-vehicle mileage cap: roughly under 75000 miles for the part to have meaningful remaining life.

What to inspect on the donor part:

• Verify the donor vehicle did not have a catastrophic engine failure, which could have sent debris into the oil system.
• Inspect the OCV's mesh screens for any tears, sludge, or metallic particles before purchase.
• Check the sensor's plastic housing for cracks or signs of extreme heat exposure.
• If possible, test the resistance of a used OCV with a multimeter to ensure it's within the 6.9-7.9 ohm specification.

OEM-only on this vehicle (don't cheap out):

• Timing Chain Kit: Due to the high labor cost of a timing chain job, using OEM parts is strongly recommended to ensure longevity and avoid a repeat failure. Aftermarket kits can have lower quality guides or tensioners.

Aftermarket brands forum-validated for this vehicle:

• Bosch (for sensors)
• NTK (for sensors)

Brands owners have reported issues with on this vehicle:

• Unbranded 'white box' sensors and solenoids from online marketplaces can have high failure rates. While Dorman is a common aftermarket brand, some users prefer OEM for electronic components like VVT solenoids to ensure correct performance.

Real Owner Stories

Aggregated from forums and TSBs cited above. Mileages and costs reflect what owners reported in those sources.

Related OBD-II Codes

• P0018 — This is the companion code for the Bank 2 Intake camshaft; if you swap OCVs during diagnosis and the code moves from P0019 to P0018, it confirms the solenoid is faulty.
• P0017 — This code refers to the Bank 1 Exhaust camshaft correlation; if you swap the camshaft sensor to Bank 1 and the code changes to P0017, the sensor is confirmed bad.
• P0016 — Related timing correlation code for Bank 1 Intake, often caused by the same root issues of low oil pressure, dirty oil, or timing chain stretch.
• P0010 — Mentioned in TSB 15-01-022-1 as a CVVT-related circuit code; while for a different engine, it involves similar oil-driven actuator components.

Frequently Asked Questions