P0018
Crankshaft/Camshaft Correlation Bank 2 Sensor A
The engine computer sees that the crankshaft and camshaft signals do not match the expected timing on bank 2. This usually means the cam timing is off, the sensor signal is bad, or the timing chain or belt has a problem.
- SEV
- 4/5
- DRIVE
- CAUTION
- DIY
- $20–$250
- SHOP
- $180–$1,200
Quick answer
AI-CITATION READYWhat it means
Can you drive with it?
Most common causes
- Low, dirty, or incorrect engine oil causing poor cam phaser operation
- Stretched timing chain or worn timing components
- Failed or contaminated camshaft position sensor or crankshaft position sensor
Typical repair cost
DIY usually runs $20–$250. Typical shop repair lands around $180–$1,200, depending on the root cause.
01 / Definition
P0018 sets when the PCM detects a correlation error between the crankshaft position sensor and the camshaft position sensor for bank 2, sensor A, which is usually the intake cam on that bank. The code indicates the actual cam timing is outside the learned or expected range, often from mechanical timing wear, sensor issues, oil control problems, or incorrect installation after repairs.
02 / Drive status
With caution. You may be able to drive a short distance, but performance and reliability can get worse quickly. If the engine runs rough, stalls, or makes timing noise, stop driving and have it inspected soon.
03 / Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Rough idle
- Hard starting
- Loss of power
- Poor fuel economy
- Misfires
- Stalling
- Rattling noise from timing area
- Engine may run in reduced power mode
04 / Causes
| 1 | Low, dirty, or incorrect engine oil causing poor cam phaser operation | high |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Stretched timing chain or worn timing components | high |
| 3 | Failed or contaminated camshaft position sensor or crankshaft position sensor | medium |
| 4 | Faulty variable valve timing solenoid or cam phaser on bank 2 | medium |
| 5 | Wiring damage, loose connector, or poor ground at the sensor circuit | medium |
| 6 | Timing belt installed incorrectly or jumped timing after repair | medium |
| 7 | Engine mechanical wear, damaged reluctor wheel, or cam/crank signal issue inside the engine | low |
05 / Diagnostic sequence
- 01Check engine oil level, condition, and correct viscosity first.
- 02Inspect live data for cam/crank correlation, cam angle, and VVT commanded versus actual values.
- 03Scan for related codes such as camshaft, crankshaft, VVT, or misfire codes.
- 04Inspect wiring, connectors, and sensor mounting for damage, oil intrusion, or looseness.
- 05Check for timing chain noise, slack, or signs of jumped timing.
- 06Test the bank 2 camshaft position sensor and crankshaft position sensor signals.
- 07Verify VVT solenoid operation and oil flow if the engine uses variable valve timing.
- 08If needed, confirm mechanical timing marks and inspect cam phaser condition.
06 / Repairs
| 1 | Change engine oil and filter if the oil is low, dirty, or the wrong grade | $40–$120 |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Repair wiring, connectors, or grounds for the crankshaft and camshaft sensor circuits | $20–$200 |
| 3 | Replace a faulty camshaft position sensor, crankshaft position sensor, or VVT solenoid | $50–$350 |
| 4 | Repair or replace worn timing chain, guides, tensioner, or timing belt components | $400–$1,200 |
| 5 | Replace a failed cam phaser or correct mechanical timing after inspection | $500–$1,500 |
07 / Related codes
08 / FAQ
What does P0018 mean?
It means the engine computer detected a mismatch between crankshaft and bank 2 camshaft timing.
Is P0018 serious?
Yes. It can cause poor running, stalling, and possible engine damage if the timing problem is mechanical.
Can a low oil level cause P0018?
Yes. Low or dirty oil can keep the cam phaser from moving correctly and trigger the code.
Will clearing the code fix it?
No. The code will usually come back until the underlying problem is repaired.
Can bad sensors cause P0018?
Yes. A failing cam or crank sensor, damaged wiring, or connector problems can cause the correlation error.
09 / Source and method
- DATA BASIS
- OBD-II REFERENCE + OBD2.HELP
- METHOD
- STATIC VALIDATION
- SAFETY
- INFORMATIONAL
This page combines OBD-II diagnostic reference data with OBD2.help generated diagnostic guidance for code meaning, likely causes, and repair direction.
Publishing uses deterministic schema and build validation, plus manual spot checks on representative pages before release.
Safety-critical diagnosis and repairs should be confirmed with a qualified mechanic, especially when the vehicle is misfiring, overheating, or losing power.