In a method for operating a camshaft adjusting device, using an actuating
drive, the actual setting of a camshaft with respect to the rotation of
the crankshaft is followed corresponding to a setpoint setting
ascertained in a control unit. In response to the occurrence of a lasting
system deviation between the actual setting and the setpoint setting, an
error signal is generated. The error signal is designed in multiple
stages as a function of the system deviation, different weightings being
imputed to the individual stages of the fault indication. By this
measure, the fault indications of different weightings may be processed.
Faults that are not serious, but nevertheless require attention, may be
treated separately from serious faults.