Trouble codes are a way for your vehicle’s OBD (On-Board Diagnostic Computer) to alert you on the condition of your vehicle.
Your onboard computer allocates a unique code to every fault detected by the OBD, like the P0011 code for instance.
The code P0011 is a DTC code representing fault signals from various parts of your car, including the Chassis, body, powertrain, and vehicle integration. Let’s uncover more on the code P0011.
Meaning of Code P0011
The P0011 is a generic OBD-II code, meaning it is a common code across all vehicle models. But more specifically, this generic fault code can be triggered in vehicles with variable camshaft timing, which is also known as variable valve timing.
The P0011 DTC stands for “A” Camshaft Position Timing over Advanced or System Performance Bank 1. The code indicates that the ECM/PCM has been unable to correct a detected difference in the desired camshaft position angle and the actual camshaft position angle.
Reflecting on the “A” and Bank 1 portions of the code in vehicles. “A” typically refers to the intake camshaft in a straight or inline overhead camshaft engine. On the other hand, if the engine uses a V configuration, the “A” usually refers to the intake camshaft on bank 1.
Causes of Code P0011
Numerous factors can play a role in the onset of a P0011 code. However, few are as prevalent as low engine oil, or the use of oil of an incorrect viscosity.
The majority of the P0011 code causes relate to the camshaft or wiring issues with the vital part.
Low-quality Engine Oil
This stems from the fact that engine oil is used as the driving input force for cam phasing operation. Therefore, oil-related issues of any type can quickly trigger a P0011 trouble code.
Faulty Cam Phaser
Cam phasing issues related to engine oil inefficiencies are so common, that standard repair procedure entails changing the affected vehicle’s oil, and clearing the associated code. The vehicle in question is then taken for a test drive, in a bid to verify that its prior P0011 code does not return.
Electrical and Mechanical issues
Additional P0011-related issues include clogging of the oil solenoid’s integrated screen and system electrical issues. Both of these issues can result in an inability to properly phase the affected engine’s camshaft.
Note that when either of these issues is suspected, removal and inspection of the system’s oil control solenoid are often necessary.
What are the Symptoms of Code P0011?
The P0011 trouble code most often causes the Check Engine Light to come on. It also leads to some engine performance concerns. However, there are other symptoms that could occur.
- Check Engine Light
- Hard starting condition
- Reduced fuel mileage
- Rough running engine
- Rough idle
- Hesitation or stalling
- Increased emissions, possibly failed test
Note: The symptoms may change depending on the camshaft timing positions when the camshaft stopped advancing or retarding.
How Dangerous is Code P0011?
A code P0011 appearing on the ECM of any car signals a fault that can cause severe damage to the car’s engine. Although damaging the car engine may seem extreme, it is possible because a P0011 error code affects the drivability of the car in the long run.
Common effects of code P0011 include an increased risk of the car engine stalling, running rough, or causing rattling noises to emanate from the engine.
Also, code P0011 reduces the efficiency of the engine to economize fuel consumption and causes damage to the engine components because of carbon build-up and failure.
How to Diagnose the P0011 trouble code?
If you want to pinpoint the reason for the P0011 code, you need to proceed as professional mechanics would. Here are reliable steps that would occur.
Step 1:
Check all trouble codes. If there are other codes present, it might indicate what’s wrong with the system. Clear the codes and take the car for a drive until new codes are set.
Step 2:
Check the oil and change it when necessary. Make sure the oil level is correct. If it’s time for an oil change, now is the time to do it.
There’s always the chance that it will resolve the problem and this is an easy fix. Make sure you use the proper viscosity of the oil.
Step 3:
After the oil change, reset the codes again and go for a drive. If the codes are gone, this is great news. If not, proceed with the diagnostic steps.
Step 4:
Look for wiring defects. Follow all of the wirings to the Bank 1 oil control solenoid. If there is any breakage, pinching or fraying, you need to repair it.
Step 5:
Perform in-depth testing. You must check the cam phasers and hydraulic control valve. The steps to do this for your vehicle can be found in the service manual.
You are now good to go. However, scan to ensure the code is no more.
Note: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended pinpoint test to narrow down the problem since each engine may be tested differently and possible engine internal damage may be done if tests are not performed in accordance with a correct procedure.
How much does it cost to fix a P0011 code?
There are many different ways to repair the P0011 trouble code. Depending on what you find, these would be the approximate costs you are looking at.
- Replace camshaft oil control valve: $200-$450
- Replace wiring to camshaft oil control valve: $50-$500
- Replace camshaft actuator: $250-$800
- Replace timing belt: $500 – $4000
- Change oil: $15-$150
Mechanics tips on P0011 Code
Don’t overlook the chances that the problem is caused by the oil. If you are using the wrong viscosity of oil, it can cause the camshaft timing phasers to advance or retard beyond where they should be.
If in doubt, it always makes sense to perform an oil change before trying any of the advanced fixes.
Final thoughts
P0011 is a common issue among cars like Chevrolet (especially on the Chevy Equinox and Malibu), Nissan, Subaru, Hyundai, and GMC.
This problem can be caused by damaged cams or faulty timing chains, which will be more costly to fix.
But in some cases, flushing out the dirty oil and replacing it with manufacturer-specified engine oil will fix the problem with no added repairs necessary. Let’s know if you found this helpful.