P054D

Cold Start B Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 2

Variable valve timing Generic OBD-II Medium

What it means

P054D means that during a cold start the bank-2 "B" camshaft timing was more retarded than the ECM commanded. It usually points to an oil-fed variable-valve-timing problem — low or dirty oil, or a sticking cam control solenoid — rather than a serious mechanical failure. The engine still runs, but may idle rough and feel flat until it is corrected.

Medium

Can I keep driving? Usually drivable — the engine runs but may feel rough on a cold start and down on power; fix it before the timing error worsens.

Common symptoms

What you'll notice

Rough or unstable idle, especially just after a cold start
Hesitation or poor acceleration
Check-engine light on
Slightly reduced fuel economy

Common causes

Most likely first

Low or dirty engine oil starving the variable-valve-timing (VVT) actuatorLikely
Sticking or failed camshaft oil-control valve (OCV) solenoid on bank 2Common
Worn VVT actuator or stretched timing chain throwing off cam timingCommon
Damaged wiring or poor connection at the camshaft actuator solenoidLess often
Faulty engine control module (ECM), rareLess often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Check engine oil level and condition first — top up or change oil, as dirty/low oil is the most common trigger.
Read freeze-frame data and check for related camshaft/crankshaft correlation codes.
Test the bank-2 camshaft oil-control solenoid for correct resistance (typically around 7 ohms) and clean its screen.
Inspect the solenoid wiring and connector for opens, shorts, or corrosion.
If timing is still out, inspect the VVT actuator and timing chain for wear. Clear and re-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P054D?+

For short trips, usually yes, but the engine may run rough when cold and lack power. Prolonged incorrect cam timing can accelerate wear, so get it fixed soon.

Can I just clear P054D?+

You can, but if the oil is low/dirty or the solenoid is sticking it will return. Start with an oil check — that clears many cases.

Related codes

Often seen with P054D

P0025B Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded P0021A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced P0014B Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced P0349Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Intermi

Read & clear P054D yourself

Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.

▶ Get it on Google Play

✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX