What Does P0018 Mean?
The PCM has detected that the crankshaft position sensor and the Bank 2 intake (Sensor A) camshaft position sensor signals are out of expected correlation. This is the Bank 2 equivalent of P0016, indicating that the intake cam on the opposite bank is not in the correct position relative to the crankshaft. This affects V-configuration or boxer engines.
Common Causes
35%
Stretched or jumped timing chain on the Bank 2 side
25%
Failed Bank 2 intake VVT phaser not returning to commanded position
20%
Defective Bank 2 intake camshaft position sensor
10%
Damaged or misaligned Bank 2 intake cam reluctor ring
10%
Crankshaft position sensor malfunction affecting correlation calculations
Diagnostic Steps
1
Capture dual-channel oscilloscope waveforms of the CKP and Bank 2 intake CMP sensors; verify the correlation angle is within manufacturer tolerance (typically +/- 5 degrees)
2
Monitor Bank 2 intake VVT actual vs. desired angles with live data; a consistently off-target reading points to phaser or solenoid failure
3
Test the Bank 2 intake CMP sensor: measure resistance (1,000-2,500 ohms) and verify 5V reference and ground signals at the connector
4
Inspect Bank 2 timing chain components for wear — check for excessive play by rotating the crank and watching cam sprocket movement
5
Cross-reference with Bank 1 data; if only Bank 2 is affected, the issue is isolated to that bank's timing components
Estimated Repair Cost
$200 - $2,800
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The PCM has detected that the crankshaft position sensor and the Bank 2 intake (Sensor A) camshaft position sensor signals are out of expected correlation. This is the Bank 2 equivalent of P0016, indicating that the intake cam on the opposite bank is not in the correct position relative to the crank...
The most common cause of P0018 (Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor A)) is: Stretched or jumped timing chain on the Bank 2 side
Typical repair costs for P0018 range from $200 to $2,800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Risk of engine damage is present on interference engines if the timing chain has jumped. Unusual mechanical noise from the timing cover area warrants immediate shutdown and towing to a repair facility.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0018 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Engine Timing / Variable Valve Timing System
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
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