Known Issues/P0018/Cadillac

P0018 on Cadillac

Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor A

Critical3 Cadillac models affectedSystem: Engine
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P0018 on Cadillac vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 2 sensor a. Au7o has documented this code across 3 Cadillac models — most commonly on SRX, STS, XTS. 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.

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 Cadillac by Model

Cadillac SRX(1 issue)

  • High-Feature V6 Timing-Chain DTCs Require Exact Kit Identification2010-2012

    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.

Cadillac STS(1 issue)

  • 3.6L V6 Timing-Chain DTCs Require Exact Kit and Guide Inspection2007-2011

    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.

Cadillac XTS(1 issue)

  • Multiple Cam/Crank Correlation DTCs Require Chain, Tensioner and Reluctor Diagnosis2013-2019

    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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does P0018 mean on 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 specifically, this code is documented across 3 models.

What causes P0018 on Cadillac vehicles?▼

Common causes on Cadillac: 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 Cadillac?▼

Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause and specific Cadillac model.

Which Cadillac models have P0018 documented?▼

Au7o has documented P0018 on 3 Cadillac models: SRX, STS, XTS.

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