P0011
Powertrain"A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)
The intake camshaft on bank 1 is held more advanced than the ECU has commanded. The variable valve timing isn't responding correctly to the control signal.
ⓘ Information only. This page provides general educational information about fault code P0011. We do not assess the urgency or safety implications of any specific fault. That requires in-person diagnosis by a qualified mechanic. Full terms.
Recommended next steps
Whether a fault is urgent, drivable, or routine depends entirely on the cause on a specific vehicle, and that can only be determined by a qualified mechanic with diagnostic equipment. If a warning light is illuminated, the most reliable next step is professional diagnosis.
What does P0011 mean?
P0011 is a Powertrain (engine, transmission, fuel system) fault code. It indicates: "A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1).
This is a standardised OBD-II code. The technical definition is the same regardless of the make or model of vehicle, although specific causes and symptoms can vary between vehicles.
Symptoms commonly associated with this code
Symptoms that drivers often report alongside this code. Not all may apply to every case:
- • Engine warning light
- • Rough idle, sometimes with a slight surge
- • Hesitation under acceleration
- • Reduced fuel economy
- • Occasional rough running once the engine is warm
Possible causes
Causes commonly associated with P0011, listed in approximate order of typical investigation. The actual cause on a specific vehicle can only be confirmed by professional diagnosis.
- 1. VVT solenoid contaminated or stuck, the most common cause across most petrol engines
- 2. Low or dirty engine oil
- 3. Failed cam phaser
- 4. Timing chain stretch on the affected engines (BMW N47/N57, VAG TFSI, Ford EcoBoost, Mini)
- 5. Wiring fault to the solenoid
How mechanics typically diagnose
A typical diagnostic sequence used by mechanics, provided here for educational reference only. Diagnostic work should be performed by a qualified mechanic with the appropriate tools and training.
- 1. Check oil level and quality, oil older than 10,000 miles is a frequent silent cause
- 2. Remove the intake-side VVT solenoid for bank 1. Clean it thoroughly with carb cleaner
- 3. If oil is overdue, do an oil and filter change with the right spec
- 4. Refit the solenoid and clear the code. Drive a couple of cycles and watch for return
- 5. If P0011 returns quickly, replace the solenoid. If a new solenoid doesn't fix it, the cam phaser is next; on chain-prone engines, suspect the chain
Common questions about P0011
P0011 came on right after a long time without an oil change, related? +
Almost certainly. VVT systems are extremely sensitive to oil condition. Black, sludgy, or wrong-grade oil clogs solenoids and starves cam phasers of pressure. A common pattern is overdue oil → P0011 sets → driver does the service → code clears for a few thousand miles → re-emerges if the underlying solenoid is now permanently fouled.
What's the difference between P0011 and P0014? +
P0011 is the intake cam being too advanced (bank 1). P0014 is the exhaust cam being too advanced (bank 1). Same fault on different cams. Diagnostic approach is essentially identical.
Information only, not professional advice
The information on this page is provided for general guidance and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for diagnosis or repair advice from a qualified mechanic. Always verify any fault before paying for repairs. carfaultcodes.co.uk accepts no liability for decisions made based on this information. Full terms →