Bank 2 exhaust cam mismatch.
P0019 — also written POO19, P 0019, 0019 — is the OBD-II code for crankshaft / camshaft correlation (bank 2 sensor b). Same code, same fix: this page covers every spelling of it.
This is the 'Oh No' code for big engines. It means the exhaust camshaft on the second bank of cylinders isn't dancing in time with the crankshaft, usually because the timing chain has gone slack.
P0019 is a engine fault code, typically costing £400–£2000 to put right in a UK garage.
What P0019 actually feels like to drive
- The car feels 'flat' and lacks any real poke when you're overtaking on the A-road.
- A nasty rattling sound from the engine bay, usually loudest for 3 seconds on a cold start.
- Engine light is on (EML), and the stop-start system has completely disabled itself.
- The car 'kicks back' against the starter motor or takes ages to fire up.
- Poor idling—it feels like it’s hunting or about to stall at the traffic lights.
What causes P0019?
- Chain stretch
- Sensor issue
UK vehicles that throw P0019 most often
- Range Rover Sport / Discovery 4 3.0 TDV6 (2009-2016)
- Audi A6 / A8 3.0 TDI (V6 engines) 2011-2018
- Caddy / Transporter 2.0 TDI (BiTDI models) 2010-2016
- Jaguar XF 3.0D (AJ-V6D engine) 2009-2015
- Porsche Cayenne 3.0 Diesel (2010-2017)
How P0019 is fixed
- Timing service
- Sensor replacement
The P0019 misdiagnosis that wastes money
I see folks throwing new camshaft sensors or even VVT solenoids at this every day, hoping for a £60 fix. In reality, on these Bank 2 engines, it’s rarely the sensor that's actually failed. Nine times out of ten, the timing chain has 'stretched'—actually, the rollers and pins have worn down—or a plastic guide has snapped. If you swap the sensor and the code comes back within two miles, stop wasting money on parts; the mechanical timing is out, and your engine is a ticking time bomb.
What a UK garage should charge for P0019
If it's just a sensor, you’re looking at £150 with a Bosch or Denso part. But let's be real—on a V6, it’s usually the chain. A full timing chain kit on a TDV6 or Audi 3.0 TDI is a massive job. Independent garages will charge £1,200 to £1,800 depending on if the engine needs to come out (common on Audis). Main dealers will easily quote you £3,000+. We use FAI or Febi Bilstein kits because they're reliable, but always budget for a fresh oil flush and filter too.
P0019 repair cost in the UK
Most P0019 repairs land between £400–£2000 including parts and labour. The spread is wide because the cheap fix (a sensor, a hose, a leak) and the expensive fix (a major component) throw the same code — which is why a proper diagnosis before parts are bought saves the most money.
Bob's tip on P0019
Don't let a garage just 'clear the code' and send you off. Insist on a 'Block 093' reading if it’s a VAG group car, or a proper 'oscilloscope' test to compare the crank and cam waveforms. This shows exactly how many degrees the timing is out. If they won't do it, they're guessing with your wallet. Also, ask them to check the oil filter for 'glitter'—metal shavings mean the chain is eating the engine casing. If it's a Jag or Range Rover, get it sorted immediately or you'll be looking at a £6,000 bill for a recon engine.
Can you drive with P0019?
Stop driving.
Urgency: high.