P0018 fault code: what it means

P0018: Bank 2 cam and crank timing out of step on Audi V6/V8 engines (e.g. 3.2 FSI). Usually timing chain or cam adjuster related.

Engine and gearbox (powertrain) · Costly if missed

Usual causes, most likely first

incorrect engine timing (chain wear or wrong chain link count)
camshaft adjuster fault
camshaft position sensor 2 (G163) failure

P0018 by make

Audi

Bank 2 cam and crank timing out of step on Audi V6/V8 engines (e.g. 3.2 FSI). Usually timing chain or cam adjuster related.

Usual causes: incorrect engine timing (chain wear or wrong chain link count); camshaft adjuster fault; camshaft position sensor 2 (G163) failure

Holden

Crank/cam correlation, bank 2 intake. On Alloytec V6 part of the timing chain stretch code group.

Usual causes: stretched timing chains; worn tensioners or guides

Subaru

Crank and bank 2 cam positions do not line up. Often seen after a timing belt job on EJ/FA engines, or with chain wear on FA/FB.

Usual causes: timing belt or chain out by a tooth after repair; stretched timing chain or worn tensioner; low or dirty oil affecting AVCS; faulty cam or crank sensor

What the repair usually costs

Crankshaft or camshaft position sensor replaceNZ$100–NZ$590 · A$100–A$580
Water pump with timing belt kit (timing-belt-driven pump)NZ$770–NZ$1,970 · A$780–A$1,970
Timing chain, tensioner and guides (4-cylinder)NZ$1,120–NZ$2,530 · A$1,160–A$2,570
Timing chains and tensioners (V6 / V8)NZ$1,890–NZ$4,080 · A$1,920–A$4,110

Not sure what P0018 means on your car? Ask Credov.

Before you clear it

Write the code down or photograph the scanner first. A code that comes straight back after clearing points to a fault that is still there. A car whose codes were cleared just before you arrived may be hiding one: the scanner's readiness monitors show "not ready" for a while after codes are cleared.

Researched by Credov from manufacturer and workshop sources. A fault code points to where a fault may be; a workshop confirms it with a diagnosis. Browse all fault codes.