P0018 on Subaru
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor A
P0018 on Subaru vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 2 sensor a. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Subaru model — most commonly on BRZ. 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 Subaru by Model
Subaru BRZ(1 issue)
- FA20 Rough Idle / Hunting / Stall - ECM Reflash (TSB 11-136-14R)2013-2014
Early FA20-equipped BRZs exhibit rough idle, RPM hunting, shaking, and occasional stalling shortly after cold start. Often triggers CEL with cam timing codes P0017, P0018, or P0019. Caused by ECU's reaction to normal mechanical variation in the AVCS system rather than a hardware defect. Subaru issued an ECU reflash via TSB; later production cars received the updated calibration at factory.
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View P0018 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0018 mean on Subaru?▼
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 Subaru specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0018 on Subaru vehicles?▼
Common causes on Subaru: 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 Subaru?▼
Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause and specific Subaru model.
Which Subaru models have P0018 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0018 on 1 Subaru model: BRZ.