What does code P0018 mean?

P0018 — Correlation between crankshaft and intake camshaft on Bank 2 is out of spec. V6, V8, W-engines only. Belongs to the powertrain.fuel system. Severity: warning.

What are the common causes of P0018?

Timing chain jumped on Bank 2 — sometimes after prolonged high-load driving; Worn Bank 2 tensioners; Seized intake VVT phaser on Bank 2; Timing marks misaligned during service; Faulty Bank 2 intake cam position sensor

Can I drive with code P0018?

Limited: reaching the nearest workshop is fine, but avoid long trips. May progress into a more serious fault.

How do I diagnose P0018?

Read the code and freeze-frame with a scanner, check related-system errors, inspect the components listed (wiring, connectors, sensors). See the "How to diagnose" section above for the full step-by-step.

How do I clear code P0018?

The code can be cleared via an OBD-II scanner (e.g. ELM327 + the Car Diagnostics app): plug the adapter into the OBD port, go to Errors → Clear. If the underlying cause isn't fixed, the code will return within a few drive cycles.

OBD-II Code P0018 — Car Diagnostics Platform

What it means

Common causes

Timing chain jumped on Bank 2 — sometimes after prolonged high-load driving
Worn Bank 2 tensioners
Seized intake VVT phaser on Bank 2
Timing marks misaligned during service
Faulty Bank 2 intake cam position sensor
Uneven bank wear — one head aged faster than the other

How to diagnose

01
Read all stored and pending codes with an OBD-II adapter — get the full picture, not just the one code.
02
Capture freeze-frame data (RPM, coolant temperature, engine load) at the exact moment the code triggered.
03
Inspect the named subsystem with our app's AI explanation — get vehicle-specific causes for your make, model and year.

Decode P0018 on your actual car

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