P0011

A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 1

Variable valve timing (VVT) Generic OBD-II High

What it means

P0011 means the camshaft on bank 1 is timed more advanced than the ECM commands, so the variable-valve-timing (VVT) system isn't performing correctly. The engine still runs but often idles rough, hesitates, and loses power. Low or dirty oil and a stuck VVT oil-control solenoid are the usual culprits — check the oil first.

High

Can I keep driving? Usually driveable, but expect rough running — the cam timing is off, which can cause rough idle, hard starts, and reduced power; fix it soon to avoid stalling and long-term wear.

Common symptoms

What you'll notice

Check-engine light on
Rough idle, sometimes a hard start or stalling
Noticeable loss of power and hesitation
Poorer fuel economy

Common causes

Most likely first

Low or dirty engine oil restricting the VVT system — check this firstLikely
Stuck or clogged oil control (VVT) solenoidCommon
Faulty camshaft timing actuator / phaserCommon
Faulty camshaft position sensorLess often
Stretched timing chain or jumped timingLess often
Faulty ECM (rare)Less often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Check engine oil level and condition; top up or change it if low, old, or sludgy — this alone clears many P0011s.
Remove and clean the oil control (VVT) solenoid; replace it if the screen is clogged or it tests bad.
Inspect the wiring and connector to the solenoid and cam sensor.
Test the camshaft position sensor and the phaser actuator.
If timing is off, inspect the timing chain, guides, and tensioner. Clear and re-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0011?+

Short trips to get it fixed are usually okay, but sustained driving with bad cam timing risks stalling and added engine wear. Address it promptly, especially if the idle is rough.

Can I just clear P0011?+

It comes back unless the cause is fixed. Since dirty or low oil is a frequent trigger, an oil change before clearing is worth trying first.

Related codes

Often seen with P0011

P0010A Camshaft Position Actuator A Control Cir P0012A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded P0014B Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced P0021A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced

Read & clear P0011 yourself

Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.

▶ Get it on Google Play

✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX