P0018: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor A)

How P0018 sets

The powertrain control module (PCM) compares crankshaft position pulses with the Bank 2 "A" camshaft position sensor. Bank 2 is the side of a V or flat engine without cylinder 1. When the relationship between the two signals drifts beyond the calibrated tolerance, accounting for any variable valve timing command, P0018 sets. Tolerances vary by manufacturer.

Common causes of P0018

Roughly most likely first; the actual cause depends on the vehicle and needs testing to confirm.

1. Stretched Bank 2 timing chain or worn guides
2. Bank 2 intake cam phaser stuck
3. Jumped timing chain or belt
4. Faulty Bank 2 intake camshaft position sensor
5. Low oil level or oil pressure
6. Damaged reluctor or tone ring

P0018 symptoms

• Check engine light on
• Hard or slow starting
• Rough running or misfire
• Reduced power and fuel economy
• Noise from the timing area

How P0018 is diagnosed

1. Read all codes and freeze frame; check for P0016 or other bank codes
2. Verify oil level and condition
3. Inspect the Bank 2 cam sensor and wiring
4. Scope crank and Bank 2 cam signals together
5. Check Bank 2 cam angle values in live data
6. Inspect timing chain stretch and verify timing marks

Typical fixes for P0018

• Replace the timing chain components and re-time both banks as required
• Replace the Bank 2 intake cam phaser
• Replace the Bank 2 "A" camshaft position sensor
• Correct oil supply problems
• Replace damaged tone wheels

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.

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P0018 FAQ

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