P052B Code: Cold Start “A” Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1

Reviewed by

William Guzenski, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Contact Center Manager and Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

Written by CarParts.com Research Team - Updated on June 12th, 2024

Reading Time: 3 minutes
Summary
  • DTC P052B stands for “Cold Start A Camshaft Position Timing Over Retarded Bank 1.”
  • This code is logged when the PCM detects a “retarded” position for camshaft timing on Bank 1.
  • Code P052B is commonly caused by low engine oil levels, VVT actuator and timing solenoid failure, or a defective PCM.
  • Symptoms of P052B include decreased engine performance and difficulty starting the vehicle.

If your ride is equipped with a conventional camshaft, then it’s permanently synchronized to the movement of the crankshaft to successfully operate the valves during a combustion cycle.

Newer engines, on the other hand, usually have a variable valve-timing feature (VVT). It adjusts camshaft specifications depending on different operating modes. The powertrain control module (PCM) monitors the mechanical timing of the crankshaft and camshaft through the VVT.

Code P052B is a generic trouble code that’s set once the PCM detects an abnormality in camshaft timing. Find out more about this trouble code in this article.

What Does the P052B Code Mean?

Diagnostic trouble code P052B stands for “Cold Start A Camshaft Position Timing Over Retarded Bank 1.”

Code P052B is a generic trouble code that’s set once the PCM detects an abnormality in camshaft timing.

The VVT allows the PCM to monitor the movement of your crankshaft and camshaft. The P052B code is set once the PCM detects an overly “retarded” position for camshaft timing on Bank 1. Bank 1 refers to the side of the engine that has cylinder #1.

Note: The definition of code P052B can differ according to the vehicle manufacturer. Check the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.

What Are the Common Causes of the P052B Code?

  • Low engine oil level
  • VVT actuator failure
  • VVT timing solenoid failure
  • Defective PCM
  • Circuit issues, such as damaged wires or poor connections
  • Incompatible engine oil
  • Problems with the timing chain or related components

What Are the Common Symptoms of the P052B Code?

How to Diagnose the P052B Code

The P052B code is a generic powertrain code that various makes and models can log. However, this does not mean that there is a one-size-fits-all solution that’ll work for all vehicles.

If you’re not confident about your automotive DIY skills, it’s a good idea to bring it to a licensed mechanic. Otherwise, you can go ahead and diagnose the issue yourself. To help you get started, here is a video that can give you an idea of what the process might involve:

How to Fix the P052B Code

Attempting to fix a P52B code isn’t an easy task. If you don’t have in-depth knowledge of VVT and automotive repair in general, it’s best to leave the job to a trusted mechanic.

However, if you’re an experienced automotive DIYer, you can go ahead and fix the problem yourself.  It will be helpful to consult a trusted resource like a vehicle-specific repair manual or refer to an online repair database.

Where to Get Replacement Parts to Clean Trouble Code P052B

Driving your vehicle with a set P052B trouble code can be quite a hassle, and it’ll continue to be that way until you replace damaged parts with new ones.

Don’t leave your vehicle cooped up in the garage. Get right into resolving this trouble code by shopping for high-quality replacement parts here at CarParts.com. We have everything you need to get rid of this code, including motor oil, variable timing solenoids, and more.

Enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience when you buy from us. Simply enter your vehicle’s year, make, and model into our vehicle selector to start browsing for compatible products for your ride. You can also use our search filters to narrow down the catalog according to your preferred brand, price range, quantity, and more.

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Order now, and check out securely with a few clicks. And thanks to our strategically located warehouses across the US, you can get the parts you need delivered straight to your doorstep in as fast as two business days.

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Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

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Published by
CarParts.com Research Team and William Guzenski, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician