P0018 on Audi
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor A
P0018 on Audi vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 2 sensor a. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Audi model — most commonly on Q7. This code means the computer detected that the crankshaft and the Bank 2 'A' (typically intake) camshaft are out of their expected timing relationship. The computer compares the crankshaft and camshaft position sensor signals; they should stay in a fixed correlation as the engine turns. When the Bank 2 camshaft is too far off from the crankshaft, P0018 sets, indicating the valve timing on that bank is misaligned. This can cause rough running, reduced power, hard starting, or a no-start, and in some cases signals timing chain or phaser trouble that warrants prompt attention. Typical repair costs on Audi range from $4,500 to $9,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0018
- •Stretched, worn, or jumped timing chain (Bank 2)
- •Worn or broken timing chain guides/tensioner
- •Stuck variable valve timing solenoid or phaser
- •Low or dirty engine oil affecting the phaser
- •Faulty crankshaft or camshaft position sensor
- •Damaged reluctor/tone ring
- •Incorrect timing from prior service
- •Wiring or connector fault at a cam/crank sensor
P0018 on Audi by Model
Audi Q7(1 issue)
- 2007-2010 Q7 4.2 FSI (BAR) Timing Chain Guide and Tensioner Wear - Rear-of-Engine Chain Drive2007-2010
The 4.2L FSI V8 (BAR) in the first-generation Q7 4L uses a rear-mounted timing chain drive with plastic chain guides and hydraulic tensioners. The guides embrittle and the tensioners lose their ability to take up slack, especially on engines run past their oil-change interval or on short trips where sludge forms. Owners first hear a brief rattle at cold start that grows into a constant rattle or whine, and eventually the chain jumps a tooth and sets cam/crank correlation faults. Because the chain drive is at the back of the engine, the correct repair requires pulling the engine (or engine and transmission) out of the vehicle - which is why this failure so often totals an otherwise good high-mileage Q7.
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View P0018 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0018 mean on Audi?▼
P0018 stands for "Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor A." This code means the computer detected that the crankshaft and the Bank 2 'A' (typically intake) camshaft are out of their expected timing relationship. The computer compares the crankshaft and camshaft position sensor signals; they should stay in a fixed correlation as the engine turns. When the Bank 2 camshaft is too far off from the crankshaft, P0018 sets, indicating the valve timing on that bank is misaligned. This can cause rough running, reduced power, hard starting, or a no-start, and in some cases signals timing chain or phaser trouble that warrants prompt attention. On Audi specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0018 on Audi vehicles?▼
Common causes on Audi: Stretched, worn, or jumped timing chain (Bank 2), Worn or broken timing chain guides/tensioner, Stuck variable valve timing solenoid or phaser, Low or dirty engine oil affecting the phaser, Faulty crankshaft or camshaft position sensor. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0018 on a Audi?▼
Repair costs on Audi range from $4,500 to $9,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Audi models have P0018 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0018 on 1 Audi model: Q7.