P0022 on 2017-2022 Chevrolet Colorado 3.6L: Intake Cam Timing Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2017-2022 Chevrolet Colorado

The GM 3.6L V6 engine family (LFX/LGZ) has a known history of issues with its Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system, often related to the camshaft actuator solenoids. While P0022 points to the intake solenoid, GM has issued a Special Coverage program (N232430470) for the 2020 model year that extends the warranty for the *exhaust* solenoid on the very same bank for 15 years or 150,000 miles. This indicates a systemic vulnerability in the solenoids used on this engine, making a faulty solenoid a highly probable cause for any VVT-related code, including P0022.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Rough or unstable engine idle, may feel like a shake
• Engine hesitation or stumbling on acceleration
• Reduced engine power, feels 'heavy' or sluggish
• Decreased fuel economy
• Engine may be hard to start or stall at idle
• Rattling or ticking noise from the engine bay, especially on startup

Most Likely Causes

1. Low or Dirty Engine Oil 🔴 High Probability The VVT system is entirely dependent on clean oil and correct pressure to function. The solenoids have very small passages that can easily become clogged by sludge or debris from extended oil change intervals or using the incorrect oil viscosity. This is the first and most important check.
   How to confirm: Check the engine oil level with the dipstick. Inspect the oil's color and consistency. If it is low, excessively dark, or appears sludgy, it needs to be changed. A P0022 code appearing shortly after an oil change at a quick-lube shop could indicate the wrong oil was used or the level is incorrect.
   Typical fix: Top off or perform an engine oil and filter change using a full synthetic oil that meets GM's Dexos1 Gen 2 (or newer) specification, typically SAE 5W-30. Clear the code and drive to see if it returns.
   Est. part cost: $40-$80
2. Faulty Bank 2 Intake VVT Solenoid 🔴 High Probability As evidenced by GM's special coverage (N232430470) for the adjacent exhaust solenoid, these components are a known weak point on the LGZ engine. The solenoid can become clogged internally with debris or fail electrically, causing it to stick and not properly regulate oil flow to the cam phaser.
   How to confirm: After confirming oil level is correct, this is the next logical step. A common DIY diagnostic is to swap the Bank 2 intake solenoid with the Bank 2 exhaust solenoid (they are the same part). Clear the codes and drive. If the code changes to P0024 (Exhaust Cam Over-Retarded), the solenoid is confirmed faulty. A multimeter can also be used to test resistance; a good solenoid should read between 6.9 and 7.9 ohms.
   Typical fix: Replace the Bank 2 (driver's side) intake camshaft position actuator solenoid and its seal. On the LGZ V6, the intake solenoids are closer to the center of the engine.
   Est. part cost: $40-$100

Rare But Worth Checking

• Stretched Timing Chain: → Shop Engine Timing Chain While the LGZ engine features a redesigned, more robust timing system compared to the earlier LFX/LLT engines, it is not immune to chain stretch, especially with high mileage or poor oil maintenance. This is a major repair and would typically present with multiple correlation codes (like P0018, P0019) and potentially a rattling noise from the front of the engine.
• Failed Camshaft Phaser: → Shop Engine Camshaft The mechanical phaser (actuator) at the end of the camshaft can fail, get stuck, or leak oil internally. This is a much more involved and expensive repair than a solenoid. It is usually diagnosed only after ruling out oil issues and the solenoid itself.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Read the code with an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0022 is present.
2. Crucial First Step: Check the engine oil level and condition. If low or dirty, perform an oil and filter change with the correct Dexos1 Gen 2 spec 5W-30 synthetic oil. Clear the code and drive the vehicle to see if the code returns. Do not skip this step.
3. If the oil is fine, inspect the Bank 2 Intake VVT solenoid. Bank 2 is the driver's side. The intake solenoid is the one closer to the engine's centerline.
4. Inspect the wiring and connector for the solenoid for any damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
5. DIY Diagnostic Swap: The most practical test is to swap the Bank 2 intake solenoid with the Bank 2 exhaust solenoid (the outer one). They are identical parts. Clear the codes and drive the truck. If the code changes to P0024 (Exhaust Cam Over-Retarded), you have confirmed the solenoid is faulty and needs replacement.
6. Bench Test: Alternatively, remove the solenoid and test its resistance with a multimeter. It should be between 6.9-7.9 Ohms. You can also briefly apply 12V to see if the internal pintle actuates with an audible click.
7. If the solenoid is the issue, replace it with a new one and a new seal. The retaining bolt torque spec is 10 N.m (89 lb-in).
8. If the code persists after a new solenoid and correct oil, the problem is likely more severe (cam phaser, timing chain) and requires professional diagnosis.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Engine Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid (OEM #12636175 (May be superseded by 12687939 or 12707054, verify with VIN)) — This solenoid controls oil flow to the cam phaser. It is the most common part to fail, either by getting clogged with debris or failing electrically, causing the P0022 code.
  Trusted brands: ACDelco (GM Genuine), Dorman, Standard Motor Products (SMP)
  OEM price range: $60-$80
  Aftermarket price range: $30-$50
• VVT Solenoid Seal/Gasket (OEM #12652336) — It is best practice to replace the small seal whenever the VVT solenoid is removed to prevent oil leaks. Often included with a new high-quality solenoid.
  Trusted brands: ACDelco
  OEM price range: $5-$10
  Aftermarket price range: $3-$7

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0011 — Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 1). If both P0011 and P0022 appear, it could point to a systemic issue like very low oil pressure or a problem with the timing chain affecting both banks.
• P0021 — Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 2). Seeing both an over-advanced and over-retarded code for the same camshaft can indicate an erratic solenoid, a wiring issue, or a more serious mechanical phaser problem.
• P0024 — Exhaust 'B' Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced (Bank 2). If this code appears after you have swapped the intake and exhaust solenoids on Bank 2 for diagnosis, it confirms the original intake solenoid was faulty.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• N232430470 - Special Coverage: Camshaft Position Actuator Valve Solenoid - Bank 2 (Left Side) Exhaust. Covers certain 2020 Colorado/Canyon models for 15 years/150k miles.
• TSB 18-NA-355 - Shake and/or Shudder During Light Throttle Acceleration. Details the procedure for flushing the 8L45 transmission with updated Mobil 1 LV ATF HP fluid to resolve torque converter shudder.
• TSB #21-NA-036 - Details a condition on 2017-2022 models with the 3.6L V6 where a damaged AFM Oil Control Valve (OCV) solenoid can cause a persistent misfire on cylinders 2 and/or 5.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• GM Special Coverage N232430470: While this program is for the Bank 2 *exhaust* solenoid on 2020 models, it highlights the known issue of solenoid failures on this engine platform, making the intake solenoid a prime suspect for P0022. The coverage is for 15 years/150,000 miles.
• 8-Speed Transmission Shudder: Many owners of these trucks experience a shudder or vibration under light acceleration. This is a separate, well-documented issue covered by TSB 18-NA-355, which specifies a transmission fluid flush with an updated fluid.
• Rocker Arm Oil Control Valve (OCV) Failure: TSB #21-NA-036 addresses misfires on cylinders 2 and 5 (the AFM cylinders) for 2017-2022 LGZ engines, caused by a faulty OCV solenoid. While this typically sets P0302/P0305, a failure in the oiling system for AFM could potentially impact VVT operation.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• VVT Solenoid (Camshaft Position Actuator) Resistance — expected: 6.9 to 7.9 Ohms at 68°F (20°C). Failure: A reading outside this range, or an open/infinite reading, indicates a faulty solenoid.
• VVT Solenoid Connector Voltage — expected: 12V power supply on one pin and a pulsing ground signal from the ECM on the other pin when the engine is running and VVT is commanded.. Failure: Absence of 12V power points to a fuse or wiring issue. Absence of a pulsing ground signal with a known-good solenoid points to a wiring or ECM problem.
• Scan Tool Live Data: Desired vs. Actual Camshaft Position Angle (Bank 2 Intake) — expected: The 'Actual' value should closely track the 'Desired' value as engine RPM and load change.. Failure: A significant and persistent lag between the desired and actual angle confirms the over-retarded condition reported by P0022.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• GDS2 (GM Dealer Software) or high-end bidirectional scanner: Camshaft Position Actuator Control — This function allows a technician to command the Bank 2 intake solenoid to a specific duty cycle (e.g., 0%, 25%, 50%) while monitoring the actual camshaft position. This directly tests the solenoid's response and the hydraulic circuit's ability to move the phaser, isolating the fault between the solenoid, phaser, or oil passages.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• VVT Solenoid Connector — On the Bank 2 (driver's side) valve cover. The intake solenoid is closer to the engine's centerline. It is a 2-pin oval connector.. This connector is the primary interface for the solenoid. Check for oil contamination from a leaking solenoid, corrosion, or pushed-out pins. The pigtail part number is often 15355319.
• Engine Block to Chassis Ground — A primary ground strap connects the engine block to the vehicle's frame/body, often near the motor mounts or transmission.. A poor engine ground can cause erratic behavior in all engine sensors and actuators, including the VVT solenoids, as they may not have a stable ground reference. While not a direct cause, it can create confusing symptoms.
• Underhood Fuse Block Main Bolts — The main fuse block in the engine bay is secured by several bolts that also serve as primary power and ground junctions.. A Reddit user with a 2018 Colorado traced random electrical issues, including module communication loss, to a loose bolt on the underhood fuse block, which affected the Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM) fuse circuit. A loose main power or ground connection here could cause intermittent voltage drops to the ECM, potentially affecting VVT control.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Reddit user r/chevycolorado (2018 Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab 3.6L LT 4WD) — Random and intermittent '4WD SERVICE', 'StabiliTrak', and 'POWER STEERING' warnings in the Driver Information Center (DIC).
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Cleaned and inspected almost every module connector and body harness junction connector.
  ✅ What actually fixed it Found a loose bolt on the engine bay fuse box, specifically the one nearest the 30A fuse for the TCCM. The bolt head had a factory torque stripe, but was still loose. Cleaning and tightening this bolt resolved the intermittent electrical faults.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 12636175 → 12687939, 12707054 (verify with VIN) — GM regularly updates part designs to integrate new materials and technologies for improved durability.
  Heads up: While multiple part numbers exist, they are generally interchangeable for this application. However, it is always best practice to verify the latest part number with the vehicle's VIN at a GM dealership parts counter. Older numbers like 12588943 and 12615613 are also replaced by 12636175.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2017-2022: The LGZ 3.6L V6 and 8L45 8-speed automatic were introduced for the 2017 model year, replacing the LFX V6 and 6-speed. This powertrain combination is consistent through 2022. No significant changes to the VVT system itself within this range have been documented, though software updates to the ECM may have occurred.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Other Known Issues on This Vehicle

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

• 8-Speed (8L45) Transmission Shudder/Vibration 🟠 Medium — Very common issue, often described as driving over rumble strips at light throttle between 25-80 mph. Can appear at any mileage. (Ref: TSB 18-NA-355)
• Cracked Air Intake Duct / Engine Cover 🟡 Low — A known issue where the integrated air duct/engine cover can crack, causing unmetered air to enter the engine and trigger lean codes (P0171/P0174). (Ref: TSB 21-NA-105 (related to lean codes))
• Premature Timing Chain Wear 🔴 High → Shop Engine Timing Chain — While the LGZ design is improved over the older LFX, timing chain issues can still occur, particularly on vehicles with extended oil change intervals. This is a very expensive repair. (Ref: TSB 20-NA-085 (notes missing guide insert on some 2019-2020 models))

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide for This Vehicle

When a used part is the smart pick: A used VVT solenoid is a reasonable choice for a budget-conscious DIY repair, especially if sourced from a low-mileage, reputable salvage yard. Since it's an external, easily accessible part, the labor to replace it again if it fails is minimal, reducing the risk of buying used.

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

What to inspect on the donor part:

• Check the electrical connector for any cracks, corrosion, or oil saturation.
• Inspect the small filter screens on the solenoid body; they should be perfectly clean and free of any metallic debris or sludge.
• Ask for the donor vehicle's VIN to check for any history of major engine failure or poor maintenance.
• If possible, test the resistance with a multimeter before purchase; it should be between 6.9 and 7.9 ohms.

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

• Timing Chains
• Camshaft Phasers

Aftermarket brands forum-validated for this vehicle:

• ACDelco (GM Genuine)
• Standard Motor Products (SMP)
• Dorman (often includes new seal and bolt)

Brands owners have reported issues with on this vehicle:

• No-name, unbranded parts from online marketplaces should be avoided, as their internal coil windings and valve tolerances may not meet OEM specifications, leading to premature failure or persistent performance issues.

Real Owner Stories

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

Related OBD-II Codes

• P0024 — Exhaust Cam Over-Retarded (Bank 2); this code will appear if you swap the faulty intake solenoid with the exhaust solenoid during diagnostics.
• P0014 — Related VVT system code frequently discussed by Colorado owners alongside P0022 regarding solenoid failures.
• P0017 — Camshaft position correlation code that often appears when VVT solenoids or timing chains are failing.
• P0019 — Bank 2 camshaft correlation code often triggered by the same oil-flow or solenoid issues as P0022.
• P0302 — Cylinder 2 misfire; can be caused by a faulty AFM Oil Control Valve (OCV) which shares the oiling system with VVT components.
• P0305 — Cylinder 5 misfire; associated with TSB #21-NA-036 and AFM oiling issues that may coincide with VVT trouble.
• P0171 — Lean code that may occur if the integrated air intake duct or engine cover is cracked, a known issue on this platform.

Frequently Asked Questions