P0018: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor A)
Updated November 14, 2026
The engine computer compares the crankshaft and camshaft position signals to make sure they line up. P0018 means the bank 2 camshaft A (usually the intake cam on the side of a V engine without cylinder 1) isn't where the computer expects relative to the crankshaft. It can be a sensor or valve timing control problem, but it can also mean the timing chain or belt has stretched or slipped.
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🔧 Want to check this yourself? An OBD2 scanner reads the code; models with live data also show the sensor readings used in the checks below. See code readers and scanners from $24.99 ↓ · Which scanner do I need?
Common causes
- A stretched timing chain or worn chain guides or tensioner
- A timing belt or chain that has jumped a tooth, or was installed off by a tooth
- Low or dirty engine oil, or the wrong viscosity, affecting variable valve timing
- A faulty bank 2 intake cam oil control (VVT) solenoid or sticking cam phaser
- A faulty camshaft or crankshaft position sensor, or a damaged tone ring
Code meanings can vary slightly by manufacturer. Use these as a starting point and confirm with your vehicle's service information or a mechanic before replacing parts.
Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Rough running or hesitation
- Hard starting or long cranking
- A rattle from the front of the engine, often at cold start
Is it safe to drive?
If the engine rattles, runs badly, stalls or won't start, don't keep running it; have it towed. A chain or belt that slips further can cause major engine damage. If it runs normally with a steady light, check the oil and get it diagnosed soon, driving gently.
How to check it with a scanner
- Plug an OBD2 scanner into the port under the dashboard and read all stored codes and the freeze-frame data (the conditions when the code set).
- Check the oil level and condition first; top up or change it with the specified oil if it's low or dirty.
- Scan for related codes. Correlation codes on both banks (such as P0016 with P0018) point strongly at the timing chain or belt.
- Listen for timing chain rattle at cold start, keeping hands and tools clear of the belts and fan.
- Inspect the bank 2 VVT solenoid connector and, if fitted, its screen. Confirming timing marks usually means removing covers, so leave that to a shop if you're unsure.
- After a repair, clear the code and drive normally for a few days to confirm it doesn't come back.
A basic code reader shows the code; scanners with live data let you watch sensor readings, which is what you need for most of the checks above. See OBD2 scanners under $100.
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Questions
What does P0018 mean?
P0018 is the generic OBD2 code for "Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor A)." The engine computer compares the crankshaft and camshaft position signals to make sure they line up. P0018 means the bank 2 camshaft A (usually the intake cam on the side of a V engine without cylinder 1) isn't where the computer expects relative to the crankshaft. It can be a sensor or valve timing control problem, but it can also mean the timing chain or belt has stretched or slipped.
Is it safe to drive with P0018?
If the engine rattles, runs badly, stalls or won't start, don't keep running it; have it towed. A chain or belt that slips further can cause major engine damage. If it runs normally with a steady light, check the oil and get it diagnosed soon, driving gently.
How do I check P0018 myself?
Read the code and freeze-frame data with an OBD2 scanner, then: Check the oil level and condition first; top up or change it with the specified oil if it's low or dirty. Scan for related codes. Correlation codes on both banks (such as P0016 with P0018) point strongly at the timing chain or belt. Listen for timing chain rattle at cold start, keeping hands and tools clear of the belts and fan. Inspect the bank 2 VVT solenoid connector and, if fitted, its screen. Confirming timing marks usually means removing covers, so leave that to a shop if you're unsure.
Related codes
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