AutoCodesGMC – P0020 GMC

P0020 GMC Code - Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Control Circuit Bank 2

Quick Answer

The camshaft position actuator system enables the Engine Control Module (ECM) to change the timing of the camshafts while the engine is operating. Common causes include Faulty Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Bank 2, Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Bank 2 harness is open or shorted, Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Bank 2 circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0020 GMC indicates Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Control Circuit Bank 2.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Bank 2, Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Bank 2 harness is open or shorted, Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Bank 2 circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code Popularity 1,467
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Dec 15, 2020
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Code P0020 GMC Description

The camshaft position actuator system enables the Engine Control Module (ECM) to change the timing of the camshafts while the engine is operating. The Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve signal from the ECM is Pulse Width Modulated (PWM). The ECM controls the Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve duty cycle by controlling the amount of solenoid valve ON time. The Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve controls the advance or the retard of each camshaft. The Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve controls the oil flow that applies the pressure to advance or retard the camshafts.
Ignition voltage is supplied directly to the Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve. The ECM controls the solenoid valve by grounding the control circuit with a solid-state device called a driver. The driver is equipped with a feedback circuit that is pulled-up to a voltage. The ECM can determine if the control circuit is open, shorted to ground, or shorted to a voltage by monitoring the feedback voltage.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set when the ECM detects an open in the CMP actuator solenoid circuits for greater than 1 second or a cumulative of 5 seconds, when the solenoid is commanded OFF.
OBDII Code P0020 GMC - Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Control Circuit Bank 2 - AutoCodes.com
P0020 GMC Code - Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Control Circuit Bank 2

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0020 GMC?

  • Faulty Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Bank 2
  • Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Bank 2 harness is open or shorted
  • Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Bank 2 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0020 GMC?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0020 GMC code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0020 GMC Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0020 mean on a GMC vehicle?

P0020 indicates an issue with the Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Control Circuit for Bank 2, which may affect the timing of the engine.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0020 in a GMC?

Symptoms may include a rough idle, poor acceleration, reduced fuel efficiency, engine misfires, or the Check Engine Light turning on.

3. What causes code P0020 on a GMC?

Common causes include a faulty camshaft position actuator solenoid, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, low engine oil, or a malfunctioning ECM.

4. What is Bank 2 in relation to code P0020?

Bank 2 refers to the side of the engine opposite Bank 1, which is usually the side without the cylinder 1 spark plug, depending on the engine design.

5. How do I diagnose a P0020 code on my GMC?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, check the engine oil level and condition, test the actuator solenoid for proper operation, and use a scan tool to monitor camshaft position data.

6. Can low engine oil cause a P0020 code on a GMC?

Yes, low or dirty engine oil can cause a P0020 code because the actuator solenoid relies on proper oil pressure to function.

7. How do I fix the P0020 code on my GMC vehicle?

Repairs may include replacing the faulty camshaft actuator solenoid, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning connectors, or addressing issues with oil pressure.

8. Is it safe to drive with a P0020 code on my GMC?

Driving with a P0020 code can lead to reduced engine performance and potential damage over time. It’s best to diagnose and repair the issue promptly.

9. How much does it cost to repair a P0020 code on a GMC?

The cost depends on the root cause but typically ranges from $150 to $400 for parts and labor, especially if replacing the camshaft position actuator solenoid.

10. Can a faulty ECM cause a P0020 code on a GMC?

Yes, though rare, a malfunctioning ECM can trigger a P0020 code if it fails to properly control the camshaft actuator solenoid circuit.

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