P0010 to P0025: camshaft timing and actuator
Variable valve timing is not putting the camshaft where the engine computer commands. The codes split by camshaft (A is intake and B exhaust on most engines), by bank and by fault.
SeverityModerateUsually not urgent today, but it can get worse if left.
Can you keep driving?Drive gently, check it soonWhat does P0011 mean?
On engines with variable valve timing, oil pressure through a solenoid-controlled actuator turns the camshaft against its sprocket. The computer compares the angle it commands with what the camshaft sensor reports. P0010, P0013, P0020 and P0023 are electrical faults in the actuator circuit; the others say the timing is too far advanced, too far retarded or slow to respond.
What causes P0011?
- Low or old oil, or the wrong grade, which starves the actuator
- A sticking oil control solenoid, or a blocked screen in front of it
- A worn camshaft actuator (phaser)
- A stretched timing chain or a belt that has jumped a tooth
- Wiring or connector faults at the solenoid, for the circuit codes
What to check first for P0011
- Check the oil level, when it was last changed and that the grade matches the handbook
- For the circuit codes, check the solenoid's wiring and resistance
- Compare the commanded and actual camshaft angle on a scan tool
- If a correlation code (P0016 to P0019) is stored too, suspect the chain or belt
Can you drive with P0011?
You can usually drive carefully to a workshop, but have it seen soon. Low oil is one of the causes, so check the level before driving any distance; if the engine rattles or runs badly, stop.
Since May 2018 an engine warning light that stays on is a major defect at the MOT, so the car fails until the fault is fixed.
Codes on this page
12
- P0010"A" Camshaft Position Actuator CircuitBank 1
- P0011"A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System PerformanceBank 1
- P0012"A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-RetardedBank 1
- P0013"B" Camshaft Position - Actuator CircuitBank 1
- P0014"B" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System PerformanceBank 1
- P0015"B" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-RetardedBank 1
- P0020"A" Camshaft Position Actuator CircuitBank 2
- P0021"A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System PerformanceBank 2
- P0022"A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-RetardedBank 2
- P0023"B" Camshaft Position - Actuator CircuitBank 2
- P0024"B" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System PerformanceBank 2
- P0025"B" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-RetardedBank 2
Related codes
Checked on · Rafael Soares
These are the generic meanings every manufacturer shares. Each brand adds its own detail, so your car's handbook, its service information and a qualified mechanic have the last word. OdoKeep has no connection with any manufacturer, and the app does not read codes from the car.
