Fuel & air metering · Powertrain · generic (SAE-defined)
P0011: "A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)
P0011 means the Bank 1 "A" camshaft (usually intake) is more advanced than the engine computer commanded, or the variable valve timing system is not responding as expected.
Standard title per SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 · Updated 2026-11-07 · By CarWhere Research
How P0011 sets
The powertrain control module (PCM) commands a target cam angle through the variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid and compares it to the actual angle reported by the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors. If the actual Bank 1 "A" cam position stays advanced beyond the target, or the cam does not move as commanded within a set time, P0011 sets. The allowed error and timing window are manufacturer-specific.
Common causes of P0011
Roughly most likely first; the actual cause depends on the vehicle and needs testing to confirm.
- Low engine oil level or very dirty oil
- Wrong oil viscosity for the engine
- Sticking VVT oil control solenoid or clogged screen
- Faulty cam phaser stuck in the advanced position
- Stretched timing chain or worn guides
- Incorrect timing after recent engine work
P0011 symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Rough idle or stalling, often at warm idle
- Hesitation and reduced power
- Worse fuel economy
- Rattle at startup on some engines with worn phasers or chains
How P0011 is diagnosed
- Check oil level and condition first; correct it if low or sludgy
- Scan freeze frame and look for companion codes such as P0016 or P0010
- Compare desired and actual cam angle in live data at idle and during a rev
- Command the VVT solenoid with a scan tool and confirm the cam angle changes
- Remove and inspect the solenoid and any oil screen for debris
- If the solenoid works, inspect timing chain stretch and phaser operation
Typical fixes for P0011
- Change the oil and filter with the correct specification oil
- Clean or replace the Bank 1 "A" oil control solenoid
- Replace a stuck cam phaser
- Replace the timing chain, guides and tensioner if stretched
- Correct cam timing alignment after engine work
Replace parts only after testing confirms the cause — a code names the circuit or condition that failed a check, not necessarily the faulty part. We don’t publish per-repair prices; for what households actually spend on upkeep, see car repair costs.
Manufacturer notes
Frequently seen on GM four-cylinder and V6 engines, Toyota VVT-i engines and many Hyundai/Kia engines. On some makes the definition of camshaft "A" differs; check factory service information.
Related codes & warning lights
P0011 FAQ
What does code P0011 mean?
P0011 means the Bank 1 "A" camshaft (usually intake) is more advanced than the engine computer commanded, or the variable valve timing system is not responding as expected. The standard definition is ""A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)."
Can I drive with a P0011 code?
In most cases you can drive carefully for a short time, but rough running, stalling and poor power are common. Check the oil level right away, and avoid long trips until the cause is found because timing chain problems can get worse.
Will an oil change fix P0011?
Sometimes. Low, dirty or incorrect oil is a frequent trigger, so correcting it is the first step, but a stuck solenoid or worn phaser will need repair.
What is the difference between P0011 and P0012?
P0011 means the cam is too far advanced or not performing as commanded, while P0012 means it is too far retarded. Both involve the Bank 1 "A" camshaft.
Keep researching
Engine guides by brand (known issues, specs)
More fuel & air metering codes
Sources
- SAE J2012 — Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (standard code titles)
- ISO 15031-6 — Road vehicles: communication between vehicle and external equipment for emissions-related diagnostics, Part 6: Diagnostic trouble code definitions
- U.S. EPA — Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs
- U.S. EPA, 40 CFR 86.1806-17 — Federal onboard diagnostics requirements for light-duty vehicles
- California Air Resources Board — On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) Program
General information written by CarWhere Research, not a diagnosis of your vehicle. Manufacturers can add their own sub-definitions and test conditions; confirm with the factory service information for your year, make and model. Before paying for a repair, check NHTSA for open recalls and your warranty booklet: federal law requires an emissions warranty on major emission-control parts such as the catalytic converter and engine computer.