Known Issues/P0018/Kia

P0018 on Kia

Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor A

Critical1 Kia model affected$1,500-$3,500 typical repairSystem: Engine
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P0018 on Kia vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 2 sensor a. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Kia model — most commonly on Borrego. 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 Kia range from $1,500 to $3,500, 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 Kia by Model

Kia Borrego(1 issue)

  • 3.8L Lambda V6 Timing Chain Stretch and Rattle2009-2011

    The Borrego's 3.8L Lambda V6 is prone to timing chain stretch, causing a persistent rattle from the front of the engine. The chain stretches beyond the tensioner's ability to compensate, causing cam timing to drift. This triggers check engine lights for cam position correlation errors. The chain guides also deteriorate, with plastic pieces breaking off and entering the oil pan. If the chain stretches enough to jump a tooth, it causes valve-to-piston contact on this interference engine.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does P0018 mean on Kia?▼

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 Kia specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.

What causes P0018 on Kia vehicles?▼

Common causes on Kia: 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 Kia?▼

Repair costs on Kia range from $1,500 to $3,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.

Which Kia models have P0018 documented?▼

Au7o has documented P0018 on 1 Kia model: Borrego.

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