P0011 on Infiniti
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 1)
P0011 on Infiniti vehicles indicates intake camshaft position timing - over-advanced (bank 1). Au7o has documented this code across 6 Infiniti models — most commonly on FX45, M56, Q70. P0011 means the engine computer detected that the intake camshaft timing on Bank 1 is more advanced than it should be — the variable valve timing system is either over-advancing the cam or not responding correctly to commands. Modern engines use a camshaft actuator, controlled by an oil-fed solenoid, to vary valve timing for better power and efficiency. When the actual cam position stays more advanced than the computer commands (or won't move back), this code is set. It generally indicates a fault in the variable valve timing system and can cause rough idle, reduced performance, or poor fuel economy. Typical repair costs on Infiniti range from $900 to $5,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0011
- •Stuck or faulty camshaft (VVT) oil control valve / solenoid
- •Low or dirty engine oil restricting actuator movement
- •Clogged oil control valve screen or oil passages
- •Faulty camshaft phaser / actuator stuck advanced
- •Wrong oil viscosity or overdue oil change
- •Wiring or connector fault to the VVT solenoid
- •Faulty camshaft position sensor
P0011 on Infiniti by Model
Infiniti FX45(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Guide Wear and Chain Noise2003-2008
The VK45DE V8 used in the FX45 can develop timing chain guide and tensioner wear, leading to chain rattle on startup or at idle. Owners report the issue more often on higher-mileage engines or vehicles with poor oil change history, where sludge and low oil pressure accelerate guide and tensioner wear.
Infiniti M56(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Guide Wear / Chain Noise2011-2013
Owners of VK56VD-equipped M56 models report startup rattle and persistent front-engine timing noise related to timing chain guide and tensioner wear. As mileage increases, slack in the primary chain system can affect valve timing and trigger correlation faults, especially when oil change intervals have been extended.
Infiniti Q70(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure2014-2019
The VQ37VHR and VQ35HR engines in the M/Q70 series develop timing chain tensioner wear, leading to chain rattle on startup and potential chain skip. The hydraulic tensioners lose their ability to maintain proper chain tension as the internal check valve wears.
Infiniti QX50(1 issue)
- Timing Chain / VVEL Rattle and Front Timing Cover Oil Leaks on VQ37VHR2014-2018
Owners of the 3.7L VQ37VHR-equipped QX50 report a metallic rattle at cold start and oil seepage from the front timing cover area. On this engine, timing chain guide/tensioner wear and RTV-sealed front cover leaks can develop with age and heat cycling; because the VVEL/timing components sit behind the front cover, diagnosis often starts with distinguishing harmless brief startup noise from persistent chain or guide wear. Multiple owner complaints and repair discussions note oil smell, visible seepage down the front of the engine, and expensive labor because the front cover must be resealed and timing components inspected at the same time.
Infiniti QX70(1 issue)
- VQ37VHR Timing Chain Noise2014-2017
The VQ37VHR engine in the QX70 can develop timing chain rattle, especially on cold starts. The primary timing chain stretches and the tensioner cannot fully compensate, resulting in a distinctive metallic rattle that typically quiets after 10-30 seconds.
Infiniti QX80(1 issue)
- VK56VD Timing Chain Stretch2011-2017
The 5.6L VK56VD engine can develop timing chain stretch, particularly when oil changes are neglected. The primary and secondary timing chains elongate over time, causing rough idle, reduced power, and potential engine damage if not addressed.
Looking for P0011 on a different make?
View P0011 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0011 mean on Infiniti?▼
P0011 stands for "Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 1)." P0011 means the engine computer detected that the intake camshaft timing on Bank 1 is more advanced than it should be — the variable valve timing system is either over-advancing the cam or not responding correctly to commands. Modern engines use a camshaft actuator, controlled by an oil-fed solenoid, to vary valve timing for better power and efficiency. When the actual cam position stays more advanced than the computer commands (or won't move back), this code is set. It generally indicates a fault in the variable valve timing system and can cause rough idle, reduced performance, or poor fuel economy. On Infiniti specifically, this code is documented across 6 models.
What causes P0011 on Infiniti vehicles?▼
Common causes on Infiniti: Stuck or faulty camshaft (VVT) oil control valve / solenoid, Low or dirty engine oil restricting actuator movement, Clogged oil control valve screen or oil passages, Faulty camshaft phaser / actuator stuck advanced, Wrong oil viscosity or overdue oil change. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0011 on a Infiniti?▼
Repair costs on Infiniti range from $900 to $5,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Infiniti models have P0011 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0011 on 6 Infiniti models: FX45, M56, Q70, QX50, QX70, QX80.