Known Issues/P0018/Lincoln

P0018 on Lincoln

Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor A

Critical1 Lincoln model affected$1,800-$6,000 typical repairSystem: Engine
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P0018 on Lincoln vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 2 sensor a. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Lincoln model — most commonly on Navigator. 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 Lincoln range from $1,800 to $6,000, 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 Lincoln by Model

Lincoln Navigator(2 issues)

  • Navigator 3.5L EcoBoost Timing Chain Stretch2015-2019

    The 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 in 2015+ Navigator (and shared F-150, Expedition, Edge ST) suffers timing chain stretch typically between 80,000-150,000 miles. Symptoms include a rattling noise on cold start, particularly on the passenger-side bank, plus P0016/P0017/P0018/P0019 correlation codes. Causes include extended oil change intervals, low-quality oil, and turbocharger-related oil shear.

  • 3.5L EcoBoost Cam Phaser Rattle / Timing Failure2018-2021

    Fourth-generation Navigators with the twin-turbo 3.5L EcoBoost V6 commonly develop a loud rattle or diesel-like clacking from the front of the engine, most noticeable for 2-5 seconds on cold startup. The internal locking pin inside the variable camshaft timing (VCT) phasers fails, allowing oil to drain and slack to develop in the timing chain. Left unaddressed it can advance to crank/cam correlation faults and timing damage.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does P0018 mean on Lincoln?▼

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 Lincoln specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.

What causes P0018 on Lincoln vehicles?▼

Common causes on Lincoln: 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 Lincoln?▼

Repair costs on Lincoln range from $1,800 to $6,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.

Which Lincoln models have P0018 documented?▼

Au7o has documented P0018 on 1 Lincoln model: Navigator.

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