P0018 Crankshaft Position – Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor A)

What is the meaning of this?

This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, which means it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles such as Ford, Dodge, Toyota, VW, Honda, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Audi, Acura, etc.

The crankshaft position sensor (CKP) and camshaft position sensor (CMP) work together to control spark/fuel delivery and timing. Both sensors have a reluctor or tone ring that passes over a magnetic sensor, generating a voltage to indicate position.

The crankshaft sensor is part of the primary ignition system and serves as the “trigger”. It detects the crankshaft’s position and relays that information to the PCM or ignition module (depending on the vehicle) to control spark timing. The camshaft position sensor detects the camshafts’ position and relays the information to the PCM. The PCM uses the CMP signal to identify the start of the injector sequence. The timing belt or chain connects these two shafts and their sensors, ensuring precise timing.

If the PCM detects that the crank and cam signals are out of sync by a specific number of degrees, this DTC will be triggered. Bank 2 refers to the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder #1, and the “A” sensor is likely located on the intake camshaft side.

Note that it is not uncommon to see this DTC in conjunction with P0008, P0009, P0016, P0017, and P0019 on certain models. If you have a GM vehicle and encounter multiple DTCs, check for applicable service bulletins for your engine.

Symptoms

Possible symptoms of a P0018 may include:

  • Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination
  • Reduced engine performance
  • Engine cranking without starting
  • Rattling near the harmonic balancer, indicating a damaged tone ring
  • Poor engine start and performance
  • Causes

    Possible causes may include:

  • Timing chain stretched or timing belt skipped a tooth due to wear
  • Misalignment of timing belt/chain
  • Slipped or broken tone ring on crankshaft
  • Slipped or broken tone ring on camshaft
  • Faulty crank sensor
  • Faulty cam sensor
  • Damage to wiring connected to crank/cam sensor
  • Damage to timing belt/chain tensioner
  • Improperly torqued crankshaft balancer
  • Engine built or timed incorrectly
  • Loose or missing crankshaft balancer bolt
  • Stuck CMP actuator solenoid
  • CMP actuator stuck in a position other than 0 degrees
  • Possible Solutions

    If your vehicle is still under powertrain warranty, it is recommended to have the dealer perform the repairs.

  • First, visually inspect the cam and crank sensors and their harnesses for any damage. If you find broken or frayed wires, repair them and recheck.
  • If you have access to a scope, check the cam and crank patterns. If a pattern is missing, suspect a faulty sensor or a slipping tone ring. Remove the cam gear and crankshaft harmonic balancer to inspect the tone rings for proper alignment and ensure they are not loose, damaged, or sheared the alignment key. If they are installed correctly, replace the sensor.
  • If the signal appears normal, then check the timing chain/belt for proper alignment. If it is misaligned, check for a damaged tensioner that may have allowed the chain/belt to slip a tooth or multiple teeth. Also, check if the belt/chain is stretched. Repair and recheck.
  • If you need specific information about your vehicle, please consult a factory service repair manual.

    Professional Service Options

    When facing p0018 error, you have two solutions:

    Option 1: Mechanical Repair (Recommended)

    We highly recommend solving this issue by repairing or replacing the faulty sensor, wiring, or related mechanical parts.
    This ensures your vehicle operates as designed.

    Option 2: Permanent p0018 DTC Deletion (Alternative)

    If mechanical repair is not possible, we offer a professional service to permanently delete p0018 trouble code (DTC) from your ECU.

    Instantly Fix Your DTC Problem – No Hardware Changes Needed!

    Get your p0018 code permanently deleted by our experts.

    ✅ Fast. ✅ Reliable. ✅ Keeps your vehicle running smoothly.

    🔥 Upload your ECU file and start now! 🔥

    Already a member? Log in here to submit your file!

    Tuning Files Service from ECUFILES

    Custom Tuning File Service

    EVC Reseller Database

    Automatic File Service

    Technical Questions
    For technical questions, please register for free and submit a ticket on our platform. One of our engineers will respond to you as soon as possible during business hours.

    Response time: Quick!

    Sales Questions
    For sales questions, please register for free and submit a ticket on our platform. One of our engineers will respond to you as soon as possible during business hours.

    Response time: Quick!

    For sales questions, you can also reach us at:

    WhatsApp: +31686247602

    Response time: Moderate!

    WhatsApp