P0018: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor A)
On a V6 or V8, the bank 2 camshaft is out of sync with the crankshaft according to the engine computer.
What P0018 means
P0018 is the bank 2 version of P0016. V6 and V8 engines often have separate timing chains or phasers for each bank, plus a cam sensor on each side. The computer compares the bank 2 "A" cam signal with the crank signal and sets P0018 when they do not line up within its limit. RepairPal lists a failed timing solenoid, low oil, oil that does not meet requirements, an engine not timed correctly, a failed actuator and a worn chain. On several V6 engines, timing chain stretch has been common enough that makers issued service bulletins, so a P0018 together with P0008 or P0016 is a strong hint. Shops check oil, view cam and crank waveforms on a scope, and read cam angles for both banks. If one bank is off and the other is fine, the problem may be that bank phaser or solenoid. If both are off, the chain system is the likely cause. This is a job to do sooner rather than later.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Rattle from the timing area on start up
- Rough idle or misfire
- Reduced power
- Possible stalling
Most common causes
- Stretched bank 2 timing chain or worn guides
- Failed timing chain tensioner
- Bank 2 cam phaser problem
- Sticking VVT solenoid
- Low or incorrect oil
- Faulty bank 2 cam sensor
What to check yourself first
Check the oil level and condition first. Note whether P0016 is also set; both banks off together points toward the timing chain system. Listen for rattling at start up.
Typical fixes and what they cost
| Fix | Typical cost | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Replace timing chain | $2,120-$2,764 | On many V engines the job includes both banks and the guides, so labor is high. |
| Replace variable valve timing actuator (cam phaser) | $1,094-$1,425 | If the bank 2 phaser is stuck. |
| Replace variable valve timing (oil control) solenoid | $469-$594 | When the bank 2 solenoid sticks. |
| Replace camshaft position sensor | $224-$326 | If the cam sensor signal is the real problem. |
| Oil and filter change with the correct oil | $160-$188 | RepairPal lists an oil and filter change as a common first repair. Use the exact oil viscosity your engine calls for. |
Typical US price ranges for parts and labor, not quotes. Your shop should confirm the cause with a diagnostic before replacing parts.
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Related codes
- P0016 Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)
- P0017 Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor B)
- P0021 "A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 2)
- P0345 Camshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit (Bank 2)
- P0020 "A" Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 2)