P0018: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor A)

What does P0018 mean?

The crankshaft and camshaft A signals for bank 2 are not synchronized as expected. The computer uses both signals to time fuel injection and ignition. A damaged sensor circuit can distort the pattern, but a stretched chain or incorrectly installed timing belt can also make two good sensors disagree.

Generic OBD-II definition: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor A). Confirm applicability in your vehicle service information.

Common causes

• Stretched chain, skipped belt tooth, or failing tensioner
• Shifted cam/crank tone wheel
• Damaged position-sensor wiring or a failed sensor
• VVT actuator stuck away from its base position

Symptoms

• Long cranking or no start
• Rough running with reduced power
• Timing-area rattle

Diagnostic focus

Bank 2 intake correlation should be checked against the crank waveform, not just against another cam sensor. If both P0018 and P0019 appear, inspect timing components shared by the two bank 2 cams.

Can I keep driving with P0018?

Severity: High Arrange diagnosis promptly and avoid heavy loads. Stop the engine for timing-chain rattle, an oil-pressure warning, severe roughness, or a flashing check engine light; towing is safer than risking a timing failure.

If the check engine light is flashing or the car runs badly, stop driving and have it checked.

Typical fixes

• Save freeze-frame data and inspect related timing codes
• Inspect sensor wiring and verify oil condition
• Have a technician compare cam/crank scope patterns and inspect mechanical timing

Sources & review

• OBD-Codes.com: P0018
• TroubleCodes.net: generic code definitions

Definitions and diagnostic background checked 2026-11-06. Generic guidance, not a substitute for the service procedure for your exact year, engine, and transmission.