P0011 on Toyota
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 1)
P0011 on Toyota vehicles indicates intake camshaft position timing - over-advanced (bank 1). Au7o has documented this code across 3 Toyota models — most commonly on Celica, RAV4, Sienna. 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 Toyota range from $50 to $2,500, 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 Toyota by Model
Toyota Celica(1 issue)
- 2ZZ-GE Lift Bolt Failure (GT-S)2000-2005
The 2ZZ-GE engine in the Celica GT-S uses a variable valve lift system (VVTL-i) that engages at approximately 6,200 RPM. The lift bolts that actuate the high-cam profile can fail due to oil starvation or wear, preventing VVTL-i engagement. When the lift bolts fail, the engine loses its high-RPM power band entirely. Regular oil changes with quality synthetic oil are critical to preventing this failure. Many owners never rev high enough to notice the problem until they attempt spirited driving.
Toyota RAV4(1 issue)
- Water Pump Failure/Leak2013-2023
The water pump on the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine can develop leaks or fail, leading to coolant loss and potential overheating. The water pump is driven by the timing chain, so replacement requires significant labor. Some owners experience this around 80,000-120,000 miles.
Toyota Sienna(1 issue)
- 3.5L 2GR-FE Oil Leak from VVT-i System and Timing Cover2007-2020
The 3.5L 2GR-FE V6 commonly develops oil leaks from the VVT-i oil line, timing cover, and valve cover gaskets. The VVT-i oil hose fitting loosens over time, dripping oil onto the exhaust manifold creating a burning smell and fire risk.
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View P0011 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0011 mean on Toyota?▼
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 Toyota specifically, this code is documented across 3 models.
What causes P0011 on Toyota vehicles?▼
Common causes on Toyota: 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 Toyota?▼
Repair costs on Toyota range from $50 to $2,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Toyota models have P0011 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0011 on 3 Toyota models: Celica, RAV4, Sienna.