P0011Moderate severityPowertrainDIY: Moderate
P0011: Camshaft Position 'A' Timing Over-Advanced (Bank 1)
Variable valve timing on the intake cam is advanced further than the computer expected. Most often dirty oil or a stuck VVT solenoid is to blame.
Can I keep driving?
Short trips are usually fine, but check the oil level first. Don't drive it if the oil is low.
Symptoms you might notice
- Check engine light
- Rough idle or hesitation
- A rattle for a moment at cold startup on some engines
What to check first
- Check the oil level and condition. Low or very dirty oil is the most common cause because variable valve timing runs on oil pressure.
- If the oil is overdue, change it with the grade your owner's manual specifies, then clear the code and see if it returns.
- If it comes back, the VVT solenoid (also called the oil control valve) is the next suspect. It is often a simple bolt-on part.
- A rattle at startup together with this code can mean a stretched timing chain, which is a bigger job.
Most common causes
- Low or dirty engine oil
- Failed VVT/oil control solenoid
- Worn timing chain
Check it against your exact vehicle
A code means the same thing on every car, but where the parts are and what to check first depends on your year, make, model and engine. Tell CaliperAI what you are seeing and it will help narrow down the likely causes for your vehicle.
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General information about this code, not a diagnosis of your specific vehicle. Safety-critical work such as brakes, fuel and airbags is best left to a qualified mechanic.