P0011 - Camshaft Position "A" - Timing Overspeed or System Performance (Bank 1)

OBD-II DTC Trouble Code P0011 Description

• General: "A" camshaft position - over-advanced timing or system performance (bank 1)
• Nissan: Variable Valve Timing - Bank 1 - Performance
• Camshaft Position "A" - Over Timing or System Performance (Bank 1)

What does code P0011 mean?

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a generic transmission code, which means it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles including but not limited to Toyota, VW, Honda, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Audi, Acura, etc.

Code P0011 refers to the VVT ​​(Variable Valve Timing) or VCT (Variable Valve Timing) components and the vehicle's PCM (Powertrain Control Module) or ECM (Engine Control Module). VVT is a technology used in an engine to give it more power or efficiency at various points of operation.

It is made up of several different components, but DTC P0011 is specifically related to camshaft (cam) timing. In this case, if the cam timing exceeds the set limit (over-growth), the engine light will illuminate and a code will be set. Camshaft "A" is the intake, left or front camshaft. This code is bank 1 specific. Bank 1 is the side of the engine that contains the #1 cylinder.

Possible symptoms

DTC P0011 will most likely result in one of the following: abrupt start, poor idle, and / or engine stalling. Other symptoms are also possible. Of course, when the DTCs are set, the malfunction indicator lamp (engine malfunction indicator lamp) comes on.

• The ECM will turn on the Check Engine light and instruct the camshaft to return to its normal home position, if possible.
• The engine may have difficulty starting if the cam is stuck in too advanced or retarded timing.
• The fuel economy of the engine will be reduced due to the fact that the camshafts are not in the optimal position for the best fuel consumption.
• The engine may run rough, oscillate or stall depending on the position of the camshaft.
• Engine emissions may exceed federal levels and fail the emissions test.

Note : Symptoms may vary depending on the position of the camshaft when the camshaft stops advancing or slows down.

Causes of the P0011 code

The P0011 DTC can be caused by one or more of the following:

• Incorrect valve timing.
• Wiring problems (harness / wiring) in the intake timing control solenoid valve system
• Constant oil flow into the VCT piston chamber
• Defective directional valve control solenoid (stuck open)

Possible solutions

This DTC is the result of a mechanical problem with the VCT or related components, so an electrical diagnosis is not necessary. Refer to your specific vehicle repair manual to check the VCT unit components. Notes. Dealer technicians have advanced tools and the ability to follow detailed troubleshooting instructions, including the ability to test components with a diagnostic tool.

Other related DTCs: P0010 - P0011 - P0012 - P0020 - P0021 - P0022

HOW DOES A MECHANIC DIAGNOSTIC CODE P0011?

• Visual inspection for any problems with the electrical connector, wiring, or oil camshaft valve for the bank 1 intake camshaft.
• Make sure the engine is filled with clean engine oil of the correct viscosity.
• A technician will scan and document received codes and review the freeze frame data to see when the code was set.
• The codes should then be reset to clear the OBD-II trouble codes and the vehicle retested to see if the P0011 code returns.
• If the code returns, the next step the technician should take is to perform a manufacturer's test for the P0011 code and correct it if necessary.

Note : Follow the manufacturer's spot test recommendations to reduce the problem as each engine can be tested differently and possible internal engine damage can be caused if the tests are not done according to the proper procedure.

COMMON ERRORS WHEN DIAGNOSING CODE P0011?

Follow these simple guidelines to avoid mistakes:

• Always perform a visual inspection for common problems, such as checking that all electrical connectors are connected.
• Check your engine oil to make sure it is full, clean, and of the correct viscosity.
• Check, document and erase error codes. Tests to check the return of the code before executing further tests.
• The manufacturer's spot testing procedures should be followed step by step without skipping a single step to avoid misdiagnosis and replacement of good components.
• Do not replace any sensors or components unless tests reveal a problem.

HOW SERIOUS CODE P0011 IS?

• The engine may stutter and stall, oscillate, run rough, or be difficult to start.
• The engine can have excessive fuel consumption, carbon contamination of engine components, and various drive complaints, depending on the location of the camshaft failure.
• Driving the vehicle for long periods of time without the camshafts advancing or slowing down can cause other valve train or engine problems depending on the cause of the malfunction.

WHAT REPAIRS CAN FIX CODE P0011?

• Clearing trouble codes and performing a road test
• Change the oil and filter to an oil with a viscosity that matches the engine specifications.
• Repair or replace the intake camshaft bank 1 oil control valve harness.
• Intake Camshaft Bank 1 Oil Control Valve Replacement
• Checking Timing Chain Alignment for Missed Timing Issues

What is P1011 Engine Code [Quick Guide]

Need more help with your p0011 code?

If you still need help with DTC P0011, post a question in the comments below this article.

NOTE. This information is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as a repair recommendation and we are not responsible for any action you take on any vehicle. All information on this site is protected by copyright.