P0022 Code in Honda Accord: Fix Camshaft Timing with ICARZONE UR1000
P0022 Code in Honda Accord: Fix with ICARZONE UR1000
Solve camshaft timing over-retarded issues in 2018-2024 Accord 1.5T/2.0L Hybrid. Diagnose & repair with UR1000’s Honda-specific tools.
Fix P0022 with UR1000 Now1. What is P0022 in Honda Accord?
P0022 is an OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Code defined as Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 1, Sensor A). For the Honda Accord—America’s best-selling midsize sedan for over a decade—this code targets the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system’s intake camshaft on Bank 1 (the only cylinder bank in Accord’s inline engines), which regulates valve timing for fuel efficiency and power.
Accord’s 1.5T Turbo (L15BE) and 2.0L Hybrid (LFA1) engines use oil-pressure-driven VVT to adjust camshaft timing. P0022 triggers when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects the intake camshaft is "over-retarded"—meaning it’s not advancing as intended (timing is delayed beyond the 5°–15° normal range). This is widespread in 2018-2022 Accords, addressed in Honda Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 21-037 for 1.5T models with VVT solenoid issues.
2. Common Causes in 2018-2024 Accord Models
Clogged VVT Solenoid (2020 Accord EX 1.5T): A 2020 EX owner with 62,000 miles noticed reduced acceleration. UR1000’s VVT Oil Pressure Test showed 18 psi (normal: 30–40 psi) at the intake solenoid. Carbon deposits from short trips clogged the solenoid’s oil passages—cleaning with VVT cleaner (#08718-0010) and replacing the filter screen fixed pressure flow.Worn Timing Chain Tensioner (2019 Accord Sport 1.5T): A 2019 Sport owner’s P0022 appeared with a rattling noise at startup. UR1000’s Camshaft Timing Sync Test showed 22° retardation (normal: <15°). The timing chain tensioner had lost oil pressure, causing slack—replacing with OEM tensioner (#14510-5L3-A01) restored timing alignment.Low Engine Oil Level (2021 Accord Hybrid EX-L 2.0L): A 2021 Hybrid owner’s P0022 was intermittent. UR1000’s Oil Level Monitor showed 1.5 quarts below full. Low oil reduced VVT pressure—refilling with Honda 0W-20 full synthetic oil (#08798-9036) and clearing codes resolved the issue.ECU Calibration Issue (2018 Accord Touring 1.5T): A 2018 Touring owner’s P0022 appeared after an oil change. UR1000’s Honda TSB Lookup found TSB 21-037, which fixed overly sensitive VVT timing thresholds. Updating the ECU with UR1000’s Software Flash function cleared the false code.
3. Key Symptoms in Honda Accord
Performance & Efficiency
- Steady Check Engine Light (may flash under heavy load)
- Reduced acceleration (Accord feels "sluggish" at 4,000+ RPM)
- Fuel economy drop (1–3 MPG in 1.5T models)
- Rattling noise from front of engine (startup or low RPM)
- Engine hesitation when merging onto highways
System-Specific Signs
- Camshaft timing retardation >15° (via UR1000 live data)
- Low VVT oil pressure (below 25 psi at idle)
- 2019+ Accords: "Engine Power Reduced" dash warning
- Hybrid models: Reduced EV mode range (more gasoline use)
- Symptoms worsening in cold weather (thick oil = lower VVT pressure)
4. Accord Engines/Trims Prone to P0022
Honda service data highlights these 2018-2024 Accord configurations with the highest P0022 incidence:
| Engine | Model Years | Accord Trims | % of P0022 Cases | Primary Risk Factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5T Turbo (L15BE) | 2018–2022 | EX, EX-L, Sport | 68% | VVT solenoid clogging + TSB 21-037 issues |
| 1.5T Turbo (L15CB) | 2023–2024 | EX, Sport, Touring | 15% | Early timing chain tensioner wear (minor design changes) |
| 2.0L Hybrid (LFA1) | 2018–2024 | Hybrid EX, Hybrid Touring | 14% | Low oil level (hybrid owners often neglect oil checks) |
| 2.0T Turbo (K20C4) | 2018–2020 | Sport 2.0T, Touring 2.0T | 3% | Rare VVT oil passage clogging (high-performance use) |
5. Diagnostic Steps with ICARZONE UR1000
Diagnose P0022 in your Accord accurately with UR1000’s Honda-specific tools—follow these steps:
| Step | Action with UR1000 | Accord-Specific Goal | Pass/Fail Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Full System Scan > Select "Honda" > "Accord" > "Engine Control Module" | Confirm P0022 + check for related codes (P0021, P0011, P0012) | Pass: Isolated P0022 | Fail: Multiple VVT codes (signals major timing issue) |
| 2 | Sensor Tests > "Camshaft Timing Sync Test" | Measure intake camshaft retardation (Accord: warm engine to 195°F first) | Pass: Retardation <15° | Fail: >15° (tensioner/solenoid issue) |
| 3 | Live Data > "VVT Oil Pressure Monitoring" | Track VVT pressure at idle + 3,000 RPM (1.5T: target 30–40 psi) | Pass: Pressure stable at 30+ psi | Fail: <25 psi (clogged solenoid/low oil) |
| 4 | Vehicle Tests > "Oil Level Monitor" | Verify engine oil level (Accord: check with engine off for 5+ minutes) | Pass: Oil at "Full" mark | Fail: 1+ quart low (refill first before further tests) |
| 5 | Service Functions > "Honda TSB Lookup" | Enter Accord’s VIN to check TSB 21-037 (2018-2022 1.5T) | Pass: No relevant TSB | Fail: TSB applies (follow Honda’s solenoid service guide) |
Case Example: A 2020 Accord EX 1.5T failed Step 2 (20° retardation) and Step 3 (22 psi pressure). UR1000’s Component Location tool confirmed the VVT solenoid was clogged. Cleaning the solenoid and replacing the filter screen fixed P0022—verified by a highway test (no hesitation during passing, timing retardation dropped to 8°).
Start Diagnosing with UR10006. Fixes for Accord's P0022
Resolve P0022 in your Accord with these UR1000-verified fixes—tailored to specific causes:
1. Clean/Replace VVT Solenoid (2018-2022 1.5T)
- Confirm solenoid clog via UR1000’s VVT Oil Pressure Test.
- Locate intake VVT solenoid (1.5T: front of cylinder head, near camshaft sensor).
- Disconnect electrical connector and oil line (use a wrench for oil line to avoid damage).
- Remove solenoid with a 10mm socket—inspect for carbon deposits in the oil passages.
- Clean with Honda VVT cleaner (#08718-0010) or replace with OEM solenoid (#15810-5LA-A01).
- Reinstall, torque to 18 ft-lbs, and test VVT pressure with UR1000 before test drive.
2. Replace Timing Chain Tensioner (2019-2024 1.5T)
- Disconnect battery, drain oil, and remove front engine cover (torque specs: 89 in-lbs for cover bolts).
- Locate timing chain tensioner (1.5T: above crankshaft pulley, attached to timing cover).
- Remove old tensioner with a 12mm socket—note alignment marks for reinstallation.
- Install OEM tensioner:
- 2019–2022 1.5T: #14510-5L3-A01
- 2023–2024 1.5T: #14510-5L3-A02 (updated design)
- Torque to 22 ft-lbs, refill with 0W-20 full synthetic oil, and clear codes with UR1000.
3. Refill/Change Engine Oil (All Models)
- Check oil level with UR1000’s Oil Level Monitor or dipstick (engine off 5+ minutes).
- If low: Refill with Honda 0W-20 full synthetic oil (#08798-9036) to "Full" mark.
- If oil is old (>5,000 miles): Drain oil and replace with new oil + OEM filter (#15400-PLM-A02).
- Run engine for 5 minutes to circulate oil—then recheck VVT pressure with UR1000.
- Clear codes and test drive to confirm P0022 is resolved.
7. Repair Costs & Maintenance Tips
Accord P0022 repair costs vary by cause—use this table to budget:
| Repair Type | DIY Parts Cost | Professional Repair Cost | Accord Models Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| VVT Solenoid (Clean/Replace) | $15–$80 (cleaner + OEM solenoid) | $180–$300 (parts + 1.5hr labor) | 2018–2022 1.5T (most common) |
| Timing Chain Tensioner Replacement | $60–$120 (OEM tensioner) | $400–$600 (parts + 2.5hr labor) | 2019–2024 1.5T |
| Engine Oil Change + VVT Service | $30–$50 (oil + filter + cleaner) | $120–$200 (parts + 1hr labor) | All models (low oil/low-quality oil) |
| ECU Software Update (TSB 21-037) | $0 (with UR1000) | $160–$230 (dealer fee) | 2018–2022 1.5T |
| Timing Chain Kit Replacement (severe cases) | $200–$350 (OEM kit) | $1,200–$1,800 (parts + 4–5hr labor) | 2018–2020 1.5T (100k+ miles) |
| DIY Diagnosis with UR1000 | $0 (one-time tool investment) | $140–$190 (dealer diagnostic fee) | All models |
Maintenance Tips for Accord Owners
- 2018–2022 1.5T Accords: Add Honda VVT cleaner (#08718-0010) to oil every 10,000 miles to prevent solenoid clogging.
- All models: Use only Honda 0W-20 full synthetic oil (#08798-9036)—conventional oil leaves more carbon deposits.
- Change oil every 5,000 miles (not 7,500) if taking short trips—frequent cold starts increase VVT wear.
- Check oil level monthly (hybrid owners: don’t rely on the digital gauge alone—verify with dipstick).
- 2019–2024 1.5T: Inspect timing chain tensioner at 80,000 miles with UR1000’s Tension Test.
- Avoid aggressive driving when engine is cold—wait until temp reaches 150°F to protect VVT components.
8. Preventive Maintenance for Honda Accord
Avoid P0022 in your Accord with these Honda-recommended steps:
-
VVT System Care:
- 1.5T Accords: Clean VVT solenoid every 30,000 miles (use Honda-approved cleaner only).
- Replace VVT solenoid filter screen every 60,000 miles (part #15810-5LA-A00).
- Inspect VVT oil passages during oil changes—look for carbon buildup (use a borescope if available).
-
Oil & Filter Maintenance:
- Use OEM oil filters (#15400-PLM-A02) only—aftermarket filters have weaker anti-drainback valves.
- Top off oil immediately if low—even 0.5 quarts below full reduces VVT pressure by 10–15 psi.
- For 1.5T: Use oil with high detergent content (Honda Dexos1 Gen 3) to break down carbon deposits.
-
Timing Chain Care:
- 2018–2020 1.5T: Replace timing chain kit at 100,000 miles (preventive, per TSB 21-037).
- Listen for rattling at startup—early sign of tensioner wear (address within 1,000 miles).
- Avoid idling for long periods (over 5 minutes)—reduces oil circulation to timing components.
-
Driving Habits:
- Take monthly highway drives (20+ miles) to burn off carbon deposits in VVT passages.
- Let engine warm to 150°F before accelerating above 3,000 RPM (critical for 1.5T).
- Use "Eco Mode" for city driving—reduces VVT stress by limiting aggressive acceleration.
9. Accord-Specific FAQs
Short distances only (50–100 miles). P0022 increases engine wear—over-retarded timing causes incomplete combustion, which can damage pistons or valves. Avoid highway driving or heavy acceleration.
The 1.5T’s VVT system uses smaller oil passages (1.8mm vs. 2.5mm in the hybrid) that clog easily with carbon. Honda’s TSB 21-037 addresses this with cleaner recommendations and solenoid design updates for 2023+ models.
No—use OEM solenoids only. Aftermarket units have inconsistent oil flow rates, leading to reoccurring P0022 within 6–12 months. Honda’s OEM solenoid (#15810-5LA-A01) is calibrated for the 1.5T’s VVT needs.
Yes—UR1000 fully supports 2024 Accord Hybrid and its 2.0L (LFA1) engine, including Honda’s latest diagnostic protocols for VVT timing and oil pressure testing.
