Camshaft position · Engine code
P0011: “A” Camshaft Position – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)
The variable valve timing system commanded the camshaft to a position, and the camshaft ended up further advanced than it should be, or didn't respond as expected.
What this code means
Most modern engines can shift camshaft timing while driving to balance power, economy and emissions. They do it hydraulically: a solenoid (the oil control valve) sends engine oil pressure to an actuator on the end of the camshaft, called the phaser.
P0011 means the computer asked for a certain cam position on bank 1's intake (“A”) camshaft and measured something different — too far advanced, or slow to respond. Related codes follow the same pattern: P0012 is over-retarded, P0014 is the “B” (usually exhaust) camshaft, and P0021 is the “A” camshaft on bank 2.
Because the whole system runs on engine oil, oil level, oil viscosity and oil condition matter more here than for almost any other code.
Symptoms you may notice
- Rough idle
- Reduced power or sluggish acceleration
- Worse fuel economy
- Rattling or ticking noise at startup on some engines
- Check engine light; sometimes stalling
Common causes, most likely first
- Low engine oil levelThe VVT system needs oil pressure to move the cam. Check this first.
- Wrong oil viscosity or overdue oil changeThick, sludgy or incorrect oil can't flow through the small passages and screens the system depends on.
- Faulty or sticking oil control (VVT) solenoidThe valve that routes oil to the phaser gets stuck or fails electrically.
- Clogged oil screen at the solenoidSome engines have a small filter screen that collects debris.
- Worn cam phaserThe actuator itself wears and can stick or rattle.
- Stretched timing chainChanges the base cam position the system is working from. Often comes with P0016-type codes.
What to check first
- Check the oil level and condition. Top up or change it with the exact grade the owner's manual specifies, clear the code, and drive. This fixes more P0011 codes than any part does.
- Ask when the oil was last changed and what was used.
- A shop can command the VVT solenoid with a scan tool and watch the cam respond; this separates a bad solenoid from a stuck phaser.
- Check the solenoid connector and resistance.
- If P0016–P0019 codes are also present, or the engine rattles at startup, have timing chain stretch checked.
Typical repairs and rough cost
| Repair | Typical cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oil and filter change (correct grade) | $50–$120 | Try this first if oil is low, old, or the wrong grade. |
| VVT / oil control solenoid | $150–$450 | Often bolted to the front of the cylinder head and easy to reach. |
| Cam phaser | $500–$1,500 | Often done together with a timing chain. |
| Timing chain kit | $1,000–$2,500+ | When chain stretch is confirmed. |
Rough US shop prices for parts and labor. Your cost depends on the vehicle, the parts brand and local labor rates.
Official code definitions
| Code | Applies to | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| P0011 | Generic | A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 1 |
| P0012 | Generic | A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1 |
| P0014 | Generic | B Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 1 |
| P0021 | Generic | A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 2 |
| P0011 | Audi | Camshaft variable timing solenoid failure, Engine oil level is too low, The engine is not timed correctly, The engine oil does not meet the manufacturer's requirements, Variable valve timing actuator failure, Worn timing chain |
“Generic” codes mean the same thing on every make. Manufacturer entries are that brand’s own description. Look up any other code in the code library.
Common questions
Can an oil change fix P0011?
Often, yes — if the oil was low, overdue, or the wrong viscosity. Use exactly the grade your owner's manual lists, clear the code, and see if it returns.
What does bank 1 mean?
Bank 1 is the side of the engine with cylinder 1. On four-cylinder engines there's only one bank. On V6 and V8 engines, bank 2 is the opposite side.
Is P0011 bad for the engine?
The code itself is a warning, but its common causes — low oil or a stretched timing chain — can lead to serious damage if ignored.
Related codes
This guide explains what the code usually means and how it’s typically diagnosed. Every car is different, and a code points to a system, not always a specific part. For anything affecting brakes, steering or a car that feels unsafe, have a qualified mechanic confirm before you rely on it.