P0018 OBD-II Trouble Code: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor A)

P0018 code definition

Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor A)

What the P0018 code means

P0018 is the OBD-II generic code indicating that the camshaft position sensor A for bank 2 does not correlate to the signal from the crankshaft position sensor.

What causes the P0018 code?

• The bank 2 intake camshaft is out of position compared to the crankshaft position.

• The bank 2 camshaft phaser is stuck in one position or will not move.

• The phaser is not getting oil because the oil viscosity being used in the engine is too thick.

• The Oil Control Valve (OCV) is stuck closed or open mechanically.

What are the symptoms of the P0018 code?

• The Check Engine Light comes on.
• The engine may have a normal idle, but a reduction in power on acceleration.
• The engine may run erratically, stall, hesitate or run rough.
• Fuel mileage may decrease and other driveability problems may occur.

Note: Erratic drive complaints can happen depending on the failure and how long the vehicle is driven with the problems.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0018 code?

• Checks for problems with connections or wiring for the OCV and camshaft sensors.

• Checks the engine oil to make sure that the correct oil is being used.

• Scans the engine codes and views the freeze frame data to see when the code was set.

• Clears the codes and then road tests the vehicle, simulating the freeze frame failure to duplicate conditions of when the last failure occurred.

• Turns the OCV on and off for the bank 2 camshaft and monitors the camshaft sensor for changes in the timing.

• Performs the manufacturer’s tests for the P0018 code to pinpoint the cause of the code.

Note: The manufacturer's tests may help to to narrow down the problem. Following these tests should help with your diagnosis without replacing the parts that are still good.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0018 code?

Follow these simple guidelines to prevent mistakes:

• Always verify failure codes are present before doing any repairs.

• Do a complete system visual check before any parts are replaced.

• Do not skip any visual inspection steps, to prevent a misdiagnosis of good components.

• Only parts directed by the pinpoint test or a visual check indicate what parts should be repaired or replaced.

How serious is the P0018 code?

• The engine can have various drive problems like stalling or hesitations along with hard starting.

• The timing chain, tensioners, or guides may have problems that can lead to major internal engine damage if the valves hit the pistons.

• The camshafts being out of time may start to carbon the engine piston rings and valves, which can lead to the engine needing to be rebuilt for loss of compression.

What repairs can fix the P0018 code?

• Repair or replace the wiring to the camshaft sensor on bank 2.
• Repair the wiring or connection to the camshaft OCV.
• Replace the camshaft OCV or the camshaft sensor for bank 2 camshaft.

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0018 code

Code P0018 is the same as code P0016 except for the opposite side of the motor. If both codes are present then suspect the oil pressure is low or not getting to the OCV for both camshafts.

Need help with a P0018 code?

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