What is the P0011 trouble code?
P0011 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) applicable to all vehicle manufacturers, meaning “A Camshaft Position – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)“.
Background Information: The camshaft controls the opening and closing of the valves. In a variable valve timing system, the electronic camshaft control valve (or oil control valve, OCV) adjusts the camshaft angle by changing the oil pressure to the camshaft adjuster (mechanical type) according to instructions from the engine control module (ECM), ensuring that the valves open and close at the optimal time. Causes of the P0011 fault include improper setting of the A intake/left/front camshaft timing, mechanical jamming of the camshaft in an over-advanced position, or the actuator valve being stuck in the open position. In short, it indicates over-advanced timing or system performance issues. The “A” camshaft refers to the “intake,” “left,” or “front” camshaft. Left/right and front/rear are determined from the driver’s perspective. Bank 1 refers to the cylinder bank that includes cylinder 1, and Bank 2 is the opposite bank.
P0011 Error Code Symptoms
- Difficulty starting the engine
- Unstable idle
- Power loss
- Higher than normal fuel consumption
- Shaking and shuddering during acceleration
- ECU scan error code
Main Causes of P0011 Error Code
- Contamination or wear of the VVT solenoid valve
- Low or dirty engine oil
- Mechanical failure of the camshaft or phase shifter
- Camshaft position sensor (CMP) malfunction
- Oil pressure problems
P0011 Error Code in Different Vehicles
- P0011 in Nissan Altima: In Nissan Altima models, the error is usually due to a dirty or faulty phase shift solenoid valve. The use of non-OEM engine oil is also a common cause, leading to VVT malfunction.
- P0011 in Toyota Camry: In Toyota Camry models equipped with VVT-i engines, the P0011 error may be caused by a stuck phase shifter or dirty oil passages. Incorrect oil viscosity is a common factor.
- P0011 in Chevrolet Malibu: In Chevrolet Malibu models, the VVT system is very sensitive to oil contamination. The P0011 error is usually accompanied by power loss and fluctuating idle.
- P0011 in Subaru Outback: Subaru vehicles are characterized by their extreme sensitivity of the VVT system to oil quality. The error is usually related to longer oil change intervals or incorrect viscosity.
- P0011 in Honda Accord: Honda Accord models equipped with the i-VTEC system may experience the P0011 error when the VTC control valve is worn or clogged, or when there is insufficient oil pressure.
How to Diagnose P0011 Error Code?
Step 1: Read the error code using an OBD2 scanner
Step 2: Check the engine oil level and condition
Step 3: Check the VVT solenoid valve operation (control, resistance)
Step 4: Measure the oil pressure
Step 5: Check the camshaft position sensor
| Possible Causes | How to diagnose？ |
|---|---|
| VVT solenoid valve dirty or malfunctioning | Disassembly and resistance testing, and transnational capabilities |
| Old or dirty oil | Check the oil level, change the oil and filter |
| Oil supply passage to VVT is blocked | Visual inspection, system flushing |
| Camshaft position sensor malfunction | Waveform check, replace if necessary |
| Oil pressure too low | Connect a pressure gauge to the system, compare with tolerances |
Tools needed: OBD2 scanner, multimeter, oil pressure gauge, hand tool set for removing sensors and solenoids
How to fix P0011 error code? (Solutions to the problem)
Simple troubleshooting methods
- Engine oil and oil filter replacement
- Clean or replace the VVT solenoid valve
- Reset the error code after addressing the cause
- Check and tighten electrical connections
In-depth diagnostic and repair solutions
- Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor
- Flushing of the oil pan and valve train
- Check the VVT system for pressure leaks
- Replace the phase converter (if the VVT gear is stuck)
- ECU diagnosis (in very rare cases)
| Symptoms | Possible solutions |
|---|---|
| Unstable idle | Clean or replace the VVT solenoid valve |
| Increased fuel consumption | Engine replacement, VVT check |
| Error P0011 but no symptoms | CMP and ECU sensor diagnosis |
| Shaking during acceleration | Check oil pressure, replace solenoid valve |
P0011 Error FAQ
Is it possible to drive with a P0011 error?
Not recommended. The P0011 error can lead to reduced engine performance, shaking, and increased wear, potentially resulting in expensive repairs in the future.
How can I quickly fix the P0011 error?
First, change the engine oil and oil filter. Then check and clean or replace the VVT solenoid valve if necessary. After that, reset the error using an OBD2 car scanner.
Can a P0011 error occur after an oil change?
Yes, if the wrong viscosity oil or a low-quality filter is used, it can affect the operation of the VVT system and cause the error.
Can a P0011 error be caused by a sensor malfunction?
Yes, the camshaft position sensor (CMP) may transmit incorrect data when it malfunctions, leading to the P0011 error.
Is it possible to reset the P0011 error without fixing the underlying problem?
For example, it can be reset by disconnecting the battery or using an OBD2 scanner, but if the cause is not eliminated, the error will reappear quickly.
Related OBD2 errors:
P0010 – A Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open (Bank 1))
P0012 – A Camshaft Position – Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 1)
P0021 – A Camshaft Position – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 2)
Important! Even if the engine is running normally, the P0011 error indicates a hidden fault that could cause serious damage to the engine over time. Ignoring the P0011 error can lead to major repairs. Start with the simple things – check and change the engine oil, then diagnose the VVT solenoid and oil pressure.