P0019 on Subaru
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor B
P0019 on Subaru vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 2 sensor b. Au7o has documented this code across 3 Subaru models — most commonly on BRZ, Outback, Tribeca. This code means the engine computer detected that the crankshaft and camshaft positions on bank 2 (sensor B, typically the exhaust camshaft) are out of their expected correlation — in other words, the cam and crank timing don't line up correctly. The computer compares the crankshaft and camshaft position sensor signals to verify valve timing, which is often controlled by a variable valve timing (VVT) actuator. A correlation error points to mistimed valve events, frequently from oil-flow or VVT issues, a stretched timing chain, or sensor faults. You may notice rough idle, reduced power, poor fuel economy, or a check-engine light, and ignoring it can risk engine damage. Typical repair costs on Subaru range from $70 to $4,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0019
- •Stretched or worn timing chain (and worn guides/tensioner)
- •Faulty variable valve timing (VVT) actuator/solenoid (Bank 2)
- •Low oil level or dirty/sludged oil restricting VVT flow
- •Faulty camshaft or crankshaft position sensor
- •Clogged VVT oil control valve screen
- •Damaged sensor wiring or connector
- •Jumped/misaligned timing during prior service
P0019 on Subaru by Model
Subaru BRZ(1 issue)
- FA20 Rough Idle / Hunting / Stall - ECM Reflash (TSB 11-136-14R)2013-2014
Early FA20-equipped BRZs exhibit rough idle, RPM hunting, shaking, and occasional stalling shortly after cold start. Often triggers CEL with cam timing codes P0017, P0018, or P0019. Caused by ECU's reaction to normal mechanical variation in the AVCS system rather than a hardware defect. Subaru issued an ECU reflash via TSB; later production cars received the updated calibration at factory.
Subaru Outback(1 issue)
- P0016 — Bank 1 Crank/Cam Correlation Fault from Low/Dirty Oil, Clogged Banjo-Bolt Filter Screen, or Failed AVCS Oil Control Valve2013-2019
P0016 means the ECM sees the Bank 1 (passenger-side) intake camshaft out of sync with the crankshaft. Subaru's variable valve timing (AVCS) is oil-pressure driven, so on the FB-series Outback (FB25/FB20) this code is highly sensitive to oil level and condition. The common Subaru-specific chain: neglected/low oil starves the AVCS, and metal debris and sludge clog the tiny filter screens inside the banjo bolts that feed oil to the cam phasers, and/or the Bank 1 intake oil control valve (OCV) sticks. Only after those are ruled out is a stretched timing chain the cause. Subaru has issued service bulletins covering the AVCS/cam-timing code family (P0016-P0019). Chronic oil neglect is the root cause far more often than a mechanical timing failure.
Subaru Tribeca(1 issue)
- EZ36 Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear2008-2014
The 3.6L EZ36 flat-6 engine uses timing chains instead of belts, but the chains and guides are not maintenance-free as often assumed. The timing chain tensioner and plastic chain guides wear over time, typically after 120,000-180,000 miles. Worn chains stretch, causing rough idle, misfires, and timing-related codes. The EZ36 uses three timing chains (one for each bank plus one for the center) making replacement a complex and labor-intensive job. If a chain jumps timing due to severe stretch or guide failure, valve-to-piston contact can cause catastrophic engine damage.
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View P0019 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0019 mean on Subaru?▼
P0019 stands for "Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor B." This code means the engine computer detected that the crankshaft and camshaft positions on bank 2 (sensor B, typically the exhaust camshaft) are out of their expected correlation — in other words, the cam and crank timing don't line up correctly. The computer compares the crankshaft and camshaft position sensor signals to verify valve timing, which is often controlled by a variable valve timing (VVT) actuator. A correlation error points to mistimed valve events, frequently from oil-flow or VVT issues, a stretched timing chain, or sensor faults. You may notice rough idle, reduced power, poor fuel economy, or a check-engine light, and ignoring it can risk engine damage. On Subaru specifically, this code is documented across 3 models.
What causes P0019 on Subaru vehicles?▼
Common causes on Subaru: Stretched or worn timing chain (and worn guides/tensioner), Faulty variable valve timing (VVT) actuator/solenoid (Bank 2), Low oil level or dirty/sludged oil restricting VVT flow, Faulty camshaft or crankshaft position sensor, Clogged VVT oil control valve screen. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0019 on a Subaru?▼
Repair costs on Subaru range from $70 to $4,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Subaru models have P0019 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0019 on 3 Subaru models: BRZ, Outback, Tribeca.