P0011 P0xxx · Powertrain (P) Medium severity
Intake Camshaft Position Timing — Over-Advanced (Bank 1)
The actual intake cam angle is more advanced than the commanded target for a set time. Usually a sticking actuator, oil pressure problem, or a stretched timing chain rather than an electrical fault.
Severity guidance: Medium — drivability or emissions affected, book it in this week
Symptoms you will notice
- Rough idle
- Rattle on cold start
- Poor acceleration
- Possible misfire codes alongside
Common causes
Ordered from most to least likely — start at the top.
- 1 Sticking VVT actuator from sludge or varnish
- 2 Low oil pressure or wrong viscosity
- 3 Stretched timing chain / jumped tooth
- 4 Faulty camshaft position sensor giving a skewed reference
How to diagnose it
Cheapest and least invasive first — most of these codes are not a parts problem.
- ✓ Compare commanded vs actual cam angle in live data while revving to 2,500 rpm.
- ✓ Verify oil pressure with a mechanical gauge — do not trust the dash light alone.
- ✓ Inspect the timing chain for stretch; check cam/crank correlation with the scope if available.
- ✓ Swap-test the cam sensor only after oil and mechanical checks pass.
Repair options
- Oil system service; flush if sludge is present
- Replace the VVT actuator or solenoid
- Timing chain and tensioner replacement if correlation is out
P0011 — frequently asked questions
Why does it only appear when the engine is hot? +
Hot oil is thinner; a worn actuator or low pressure cannot hold the commanded angle once viscosity drops.
Will an oil change clear it? +
Sometimes. If the code returns within a few hundred kilometres, suspect a mechanical fault instead.
Confirm the diagnosis before you buy parts
Send us the code, freeze-frame data and the vehicle — our engineers will tell you what to test first.