P0011ModerateEngine / Valve Timing

Camshaft Position 'A' Timing Over-Advanced (Bank 1)

Camshaft A on bank 1 was more advanced than expected, or its position control failed the performance monitor. Correct oil specification, oil supply, the control valve, cam phaser and mechanical timing may need investigation. This code is not an instruction to replace a sensor. Mechanical noise, difficult starting or an oil-pressure warning requires assistance before further driving.

System illustration: Engine / Valve Timing
P0011Engine / Valve TimingConceptual illustration. The code identifies a system to investigate, not necessarily a part to replace.

Can I keep driving?

A code alone cannot establish that driving is safe. With a flashing warning, shaking, overheating, unusual mechanical noise, smoke or substantial power loss, stop safely and arrange assistance. Otherwise ask a repair shop for vehicle-specific advice before driving further.

What does this code mean for your car?

The same code can need different checks depending on the model and engine. Enter your vehicle details to find relevant sources and checks.

For example 1.8 hybrid. Leave blank if unknown.

Symptoms

  • Rough idle
  • Rattle on start-up
  • Power loss and higher fuel use

Possible causes

  1. 1Old, wrong-viscosity or low engine oil
  2. 2Stuck VVT oil control solenoid
  3. 3Worn cam phaser
  4. 4Stretched timing chain

These possibilities are not ranked by frequency and do not diagnose your vehicle.

Checks you can safely do yourself

Safe checks only: engine off and cold, car on level ground.

  • Check oil level and condition, engine cold on level ground
  • Check when the oil was last changed and which grade

When you need a shop

Ask a shop to check oil level and specification, timing data and variable valve timing control against manufacturer procedures. Mechanical noise or stalling calls for a safe stop and towing.

How much does it cost?

A US repair estimate needs a diagnosis and a local shop quote.

No verified US repair estimate is available. Ask a local shop to diagnose the vehicle before quoting parts and labor.

Get 2-3 quotes

Investigate this code for my car

FAQ

Can I keep driving with P0011?

A code alone cannot establish that driving is safe. With a flashing warning, shaking, overheating, unusual mechanical noise, smoke or substantial power loss, stop safely and arrange assistance. Otherwise ask a repair shop for vehicle-specific advice before driving further.

What can cause P0011?

Possibilities to investigate include Old, wrong-viscosity or low engine oil; Stuck VVT oil control solenoid. The code does not prove a particular part has failed; diagnose before replacing parts.

If I clear the code, is it fixed?

No. Clearing a code does not repair its cause and may erase diagnostic evidence or reset readiness monitors. It may return when the monitor runs again. An unlit warning does not prove the vehicle is fault-free.

I saw this code on a car I'm thinking of buying - now what?

Don't run, don't shrug it off. Ask the seller for a shop diagnosis before you sign, and use what it finds to negotiate.

How much does fixing P0011 cost?

We do not have a verified US repair quote for your vehicle. Diagnosis, local labor rates and the confirmed repair determine the price. Get 2-3 quotes.

Related codes

Sources

Technical source checked: 2026-10-15. Mechanical review pending.

Generic code guidance. Manufacturer references describe their own implementations; applicability, thresholds and diagnostic steps must be confirmed for your specific vehicle.

PDF page 9: P0011 diagnostic trouble code definition

General guidance only, not a substitute for a qualified mechanic's diagnosis of your vehicle. If in any doubt about safety, don't drive.

Investigate this code for your car

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