P0011: A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced Or System Performance
P0011 means the engine computer sees the intake camshaft timing advanced too far, or not moving where it should on bank 1. The most common fix is changing dirty or wrong oil and replacing a stuck oil control valve or cam phaser, which typically costs about $150 to $900.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Can I drive?
- Drive with caution
- DIY?
- Possible with some experience
- Repair cost range
- $60 – $1,800
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What does P0011 mean?
This code is for variable valve timing, a system that changes camshaft timing to help power, fuel economy, and emissions. On many cars, oil pressure and clean oil are what move the cam phaser to the right position. If the oil is dirty, low, or the timing parts stick, the cam can stay too far advanced and the computer sets P0011. It can also happen if the wiring, sensor, or timing chain has a problem.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Rough idle
- Hard starting
- Loss of power when accelerating
- Bad gas mileage
- Engine may run rough or stall
Causes, fixes and costs
P0011: A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced Or System Performance
General guide for most cars. Your car may differ.
The car may still run, but it can lose power, idle poorly, or stall. Stop driving if the engine is knocking, stalling often, or the check engine light is flashing.
Most likely causes
- 1
Dirty, low, or wrong engine oilHigh
If the light came on after an overdue oil change, or the engine has low oil, the VVT system may not control cam timing correctly. This is especially likely with rough idle, hesitation, or a noise from the top of the engine.
Quick check: Check the oil level and condition on the dipstick. If it is low, sludgy, or the wrong viscosity, service it first.
- 2
Stuck or dirty oil control valveHigh
A clogged VVT solenoid can hold the cam timing too advanced, often causing rough running and a power loss under acceleration. This is common when the code returns after an oil service or if the engine oil is dirty.
Quick check: Inspect the solenoid and its screen for sludge or metal debris, and test whether the valve is getting power and a control signal.
- 3
Cam phaser sticking or wornMedium
If the engine has rattling on startup, a persistent rough idle, or the code comes back after a new solenoid, the phaser may be sticking mechanically. This tends to show up more on higher-mileage engines.
Quick check: Use a scan tool to compare commanded cam timing with actual timing; a large mismatch points to a phaser problem.
- 4
Timing chain stretched or timing components out of timeMedium
If there is extended cranking, poor power, or multiple timing-related codes, the chain may have stretched or jumped. This is more likely when the engine has high mileage or a rattling front cover noise.
Quick check: Have the mechanical timing checked and look for chain slack, worn guides, or correlation codes.
Can you fix it yourself?
Possible with some experience
Difficulty: Moderate. An oil and filter change is a reasonable DIY first step if the oil level is low or the oil is dirty. Deeper testing of the VVT solenoid, phaser, or timing chain usually needs a scan tool and service information.
Show the stepsHide the steps
- Check oil level and condition
- Change oil and filter if overdue or contaminated
- Clear the code and road test
- Inspect the VVT solenoid connector and wiring
- Remove and inspect the solenoid if accessible
- Scan live data for commanded vs actual cam timing
- If the code returns, have the timing system tested
Estimated repair cost
$60 – $120
Oil and filter service: parts and labor; first step if oil is dirty or low
- Camshaft oil control valve / VVT solenoid$150 – $350
- Cam phaser replacement$500 – $1,200
- Timing chain service$900 – $1,800
Prices vary by engine design, parts access, and local labor rates.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with P0011?
Usually yes for short trips, but drive gently and get it checked soon. If the engine runs rough, stalls, or the light starts flashing, stop driving.
Will an oil change fix P0011?
Sometimes. If the oil is low, dirty, or the wrong viscosity, fresh oil and a filter can solve the problem, but many cars also need a VVT solenoid or timing repair.
How much does it cost to fix P0011?
A simple oil service may cost about $60 to $120, while a VVT solenoid job is often $150 to $350. If the cam phaser or timing chain is worn, the repair can be much more expensive.
Can P0011 be caused by bad gas?
No, not usually. This code is normally about cam timing, oil control, or timing hardware rather than fuel quality.
Will P0011 make the car fail an inspection?
It can, because the check engine light is on and the engine may not pass emissions readiness checks. In some states, the car will fail if the code is stored or the light is illuminated.
Related codes
- P0010 A Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit
- P0012 A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded
- P0013 B Camshaft Position - Actuator Circuit
- P0014 B Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced Or System Performance
- P0016 Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)
- P0340 Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit (Bank 1)
Related problems
This guide covers most cars and is general advice, not an inspection. Prices are typical US independent-shop ranges and vary by region, car and shop. If your brakes, steering or a warning light feel unsafe, stop driving and contact a mechanic.