P0018 on Cadillac: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor A
3 Cadillac models · 3 documented issues
P0018 on Cadillac by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
GM bulletin 12-06-01-009E covers listed 2007-2011 STS 3.6L High Feature V6 applications when worn timing chains set P0008, P0009 or P0016-P0019. It identifies application-specific service kits and warns that sprockets, actuators and guides should not be replaced automatically; guides are replaced only when wear reaches the base friction material.
Common Symptoms
- Check-engine light
- P0008 or P0009
- P0016 through P0019
How to Fix
Have a qualified technician confirm the 3.6L engine RPO, DTCs, build information and chain wear through current service information. For a 2007 vehicle, use the current 07-06-01-013 early-build identification instructions where directed. If 12-06-01-009E applies, use the GM kit mapped to the exact application, inspect guides using the bulletin criterion and inspect pre-June 5, 2009 cylinder-head hardware when applicable. Do not order a generic timing kit or oil from this card; the ShowMeTheParts lookup returned no candidate.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (1)
GM bulletin 12-06-01-009E covers listed 2010-2012 SRX High Feature V6 applications when worn timing chains set P0008, P0009 or P0016-P0019. It identifies application-specific service kits and warns that sprockets, actuators and guides should not be replaced automatically; guides are replaced only when wear reaches the base friction material.
Common Symptoms
- Check-engine light
- P0008 or P0009
- P0016 through P0019
How to Fix
Have a qualified technician confirm the DTCs, engine RPO, build information and chain wear through current service information. If the bulletin applies, use the GM kit mapped to the exact application, inspect guides using the bulletin criterion and inspect pre-June 5, 2009 cylinder-head hardware when applicable. Do not order the frozen aftermarket kit or water pump from this card; the ShowMeTheParts lookup returned no candidate.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (1)
GM PIP3423P covers 2013-2019 XTS vehicles with the 3.6L LFX or LF3 engine when two or more of P0008, P0009 and P0016-P0019 are present. GM directs technicians to check for loose chains or tensioners and, if normal SI diagnosis does not find the cause, inspect whether the crankshaft-sensor reluctor moved. The bulletin does not establish automatic chain replacement.
Common Symptoms
- Check-engine light with two or more correlation DTCs
- P0008 or P0009
- P0016 through P0019
How to Fix
Have a qualified technician confirm that at least two listed correlation DTCs are present, then follow current SI diagnosis for chains and tensioners. If the cause remains unresolved, inspect the crankshaft reluctor as directed by PIP3423P. Do not order the former generic timing kit or water pump from this card; the exact ShowMeTheParts lookup returned no timing-chain candidate.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (1)
P0018 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0018 mean on a Cadillac?
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 Cadillac it is documented across 3 models: STS, SRX, XTS.
What are the most common causes of P0018?
The most common causes of P0018 are: 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. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0018 on a Cadillac?
Repair costs vary widely with the root cause and Cadillac model; each issue on this page carries its own estimate where one is published.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.