P0020 on Mercedes-Benz: How to Diagnose & Fix
Camshaft Position 'A' Actuator Circuit (Bank 2)
1 Mercedes-Benz model · 1 documented issue · $700-$2,500 repair
P0020 on Mercedes-Benz by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The W166 GLE 350 and GLE 400 (2016-2018, M276 3.0L/3.5L V6) share the well-known M276 camshaft-adjuster problem. The variable-valve-timing camshaft adjusters and their magnets/solenoids wear, allowing the cams to fall out of time. Symptoms include a 2-3 second rattle on cold start, rough running, and check-engine codes such as P0010-style adjuster faults; owners report codes like P002177 with cams found advanced/out of time. Left unaddressed, a worn adjuster can cause poor timing control and driveability problems.
Common Symptoms
- 2-3 second rattle on cold start
- rough idle
- check engine light
- rough running / hesitation
- cam timing fault codes
How to Fix
Read the cam-correlation/adjuster DTCs and inspect the intake and exhaust camshaft adjusters and adjuster magnets. Replace worn camshaft adjusters (often with an updated timing chain kit and tensioner) and the adjuster solenoids on the affected bank, then re-verify cam timing. Using correct-spec oil and timely oil changes helps prevent adjuster sludging.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- FCP/Febi M276 bank-1 intake camshaft-adjuster repair kit 176728OEMFCP 176728
Mechanically confirmed bank-1 intake adjuster failure on the cataloged 2016-2018 GLE350 M276.955 branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S.
- OE-supplier camshaft-adjuster magnet/solenoid 2761560790OEMOE Supplier 2761560790
Electrically or leak-confirmed external adjuster magnet on the cataloged GLE350 branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S.
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Sources for this issue (2)
P0020 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0020 mean on a Mercedes-Benz?
P0020 stands for "Camshaft Position 'A' Actuator Circuit (Bank 2)." P0020 is a generic powertrain code indicating a fault in the camshaft position (intake/'A') actuator circuit on bank 2 — the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder number one. The engine computer controls a variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid to advance or retard camshaft timing for efficiency and power; this code sets when it detects an electrical problem in that solenoid's control circuit. The result can be reduced performance, rough running, or poor fuel economy. It is usually not an immediate breakdown risk but should be diagnosed to prevent driveability and timing issues. On Mercedes-Benz it is documented across 1 model: GLE.
What are the most common causes of P0020?
The most common causes of P0020 are: Faulty bank 2 camshaft (VVT/oil control) solenoid, Wiring or connector damage to the VVT solenoid, Low or dirty engine oil restricting VVT operation, Clogged VVT solenoid screen/oil passage, Open or short in the actuator control circuit, Failed PCM/ECM (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0020 on a Mercedes-Benz?
Published repair estimates on Mercedes-Benz range from $700 to $2,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0020 on a different make?
View P0020 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.