P0018 on BMW
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor A
P0018 on BMW vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 2 sensor a. Au7o has documented this code across 3 BMW models — most commonly on 4 Series, 7 Series, X4. 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 BMW range from $2,500 to $14,000, 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 BMW by Model
BMW 4 Series(1 issue)
- N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - 428i F32/F33/F362014-2016
The N20 2.0L turbocharged engine in 428i models suffers from premature timing chain stretch and guide failure, typically occurring between 40,000-80,000 miles. The single-row timing chain design is inadequate for the engine's power output. Chain stretch causes the timing to jump, leading to rough running, poor performance, and potential catastrophic engine damage if the chain breaks. BMW issued a class action settlement covering 8 years/100,000 miles. This is identical to the N20 timing chain issue in 328i/X3/X5 models using the same engine.
BMW 7 Series(1 issue)
- N63 Timing Chain Guide Breakage and Chain Stretch - F01/F02 750i2009-2015
The N63 twin-turbo V8 places the turbos inside the vee, and the trapped heat cooks the plastic timing chain guides until they crack and break apart. Debris from a shattered guide lets the chain go slack, so it stretches, throws timing correlation codes, and can jump a tooth - at which point one whole bank stops firing and the driver gets a Drive Train Malfunction with reduced power. Owners on the F01 chassis have reported broken guides and a jumped chain around 100,000-120,000 miles, often preceded for months by a rattle or grinding noise during the first few seconds after a cold start. Early N63 engines (roughly 2009-2013) were the worst and were covered in part by the Customer Care Package rework.
BMW X4(1 issue)
- N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - F26 X4 xDrive28i2015-2016
The N20 2.0L turbocharged engine in 2015-2016 X4 xDrive28i models suffers from premature timing chain stretch and guide failure, typically between 40,000-80,000 miles. The single-row timing chain design is inadequate for the engine's power output. Chain stretch causes timing to jump, leading to rough running, poor performance, and potential catastrophic engine damage if the chain breaks. BMW issued a class action settlement covering 8 years/100,000 miles. This is identical to the N20 issue affecting all N20-powered BMW models including X3, 3/4 Series, and X1.
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View P0018 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0018 mean on BMW?▼
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 BMW specifically, this code is documented across 3 models.
What causes P0018 on BMW vehicles?▼
Common causes on BMW: 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 BMW?▼
Repair costs on BMW range from $2,500 to $14,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which BMW models have P0018 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0018 on 3 BMW models: 4 Series, 7 Series, X4.