OBD codes / P0011
P0011
ModerateCamshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced (Bank 1)
P0011 is usually drivable short-term, but don't ignore it — if the cause is timing-chain or phaser wear it can get worse, and running with the wrong cam timing hurts performance and economy. Check oil level and condition immediately (top up or change it); that alone resolves many cases.
What this code means
Modern engines vary the camshaft timing on the fly to improve power and economy, using oil pressure routed through a control solenoid (often called a VVT, VCT, or OCV). P0011 means the camshaft timing on Bank 1 is more advanced than commanded — the computer can't pull it back. The most common and cheapest cause is oil: low level, the wrong viscosity, or dirty/overdue oil clogging the small passages. Next is a stuck VVT solenoid or its screen. Less often it's a stretched timing chain or worn cam phaser. Because oil is so often the cause, an oil change is a smart first step.
Symptoms you might notice
- Rough idle or stalling
- Loss of power or hesitation
- Rattle or noise from the front of the engine at start-up
- Reduced fuel economy
- Check-engine light
What it costs to fix
Typical range: $60–$1,500 · about ~0.3–6 hrs of labor
| If the cause is… | Part | Labor |
|---|---|---|
| Oil change (when low/dirty oil is the cause) | $30–$100 | ~0.3–0.6 hrs |
| VVT/VCT solenoid (oil-control valve) | $30–$150 | ~0.5–2 hrs |
| Camshaft phaser | $150–$500 | ~3–6 hrs |
The low end assumes the cause is simply low or dirty oil — which genuinely does fix a fair number of these, but isn't guaranteed. The typical repair is the VVT solenoid (modest); a worn phaser or stretched timing chain is the major, high-end job. Get a chain/phaser repair diagnosed before committing.
The price swings on which cause it turns out to be — so confirm the cause before paying. Diagnose P0011 for my exact vehicle →
Frequently asked
Can I drive with P0011?
Short-term usually yes, but address it soon. If it's just oil, it's trivial; if it's a worn phaser or timing chain, continued driving can make it worse. Check your oil level and condition right away.
Can low oil cause P0011?
Yes — this is one of the most common causes. The variable-timing system runs on oil pressure through tiny passages, so low, dirty, or wrong-viscosity oil can throw this code. An oil change with the correct grade is a smart, cheap first move.
What is a VVT solenoid and is it expensive?
It's the oil-control valve that routes pressure to advance or retard the cam timing. The part is usually inexpensive; replacing or cleaning it is a modest job on most engines. It's the typical next step after ruling out oil.
How much does it cost to fix P0011?
Anywhere from an oil change to a major repair. Oil and solenoid fixes are cheap-to-modest; a camshaft phaser or timing chain is a big labor job. Diagnose the cause before assuming the worst.
Seeing P0011 on your car? Get a diagnosis specific to your exact year, make and model.
Diagnose P0011 for my vehicleGeneric OBD-II reference. Manufacturer-specific behavior varies — confirm with a scan tool and, for safety-related codes, a professional inspection.