AutoCodes – Ford – P0018 Ford

P0018 Ford Code - Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'

Quick Answer

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is set when the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) a misalignment between the camshaft and crankshaft is detected. Common causes include Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) unit to camshaft alignment, Excessive camshaft timing chain wear, Camshaft timing incorrectly set. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0018 Ford indicates Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'.
Common causes: Common causes include Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) unit to camshaft alignment, Excessive camshaft timing chain wear, Camshaft timing incorrectly set.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 56,078

How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 28, 2023

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0018 Ford Description

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is set when the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) a misalignment between the camshaft and crankshaft is detected. This DTC sets when the misalignment is 1 tooth or greater. This DTC can also be set due to Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) system concerns (oil contamination or VCT solenoid stuck).

OBDII Code P0018 Ford - Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A' - AutoCodes.com — P0018 Ford Code - Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0018 Ford?

Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) unit to camshaft alignment
Excessive camshaft timing chain wear
Camshaft timing incorrectly set
Continuous oil flow to the VCT piston chamber
Erratic camshaft position due to low oil pressure
Oil flow restriction in the oil passages or the VCT valve body
Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Bank 2 Solenoid 1 (VCT21)
Faulty Camshaft Position (CMP) Bank 2 Sensor 1 (CMP21)
Variable Camshaft Timing Bank 2 Solenoid 1 circuit is open or shorted
Variable Camshaft Timing Bank 2 Solenoid 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Camshaft Position Bank 2 Sensor 1 circuit is open or shorted
Camshaft Position Bank 2 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing Phaser

How to Fix the DTC P0018 Ford?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

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What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0018 Ford code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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Information for Specific Ford Models

P0018 2015 Ford F150 — Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'
P0018 2016 Ford F150 — Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'
P0018 2017 Ford F150 — Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'
P0018 2018 Ford F150 — Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'
P0018 2019 Ford F150 — Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'
P0018 2020 Ford F150 — Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'
P0018 2006 Ford Fusion — Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'
P0018 2007 Ford Fusion — Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'
P0018 2008 Ford Fusion — Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'
P0018 2009 Ford Fusion — Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'
P0018 2010 Ford Fusion — Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'
P0018 2011 Ford Fusion — Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'
P0018 2012 Ford Fusion — Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0018 Ford Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0018 in a Ford vehicle?

Symptoms may include rough idling, poor engine performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and possible stalling.

2. What does the OBDII code P0018, "Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'", indicate in a Ford vehicle?

This code indicates that there is an issue with the correlation between the crankshaft and camshaft positions in Bank 2 Sensor 'A'.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0018 in a Ford vehicle?

Possible causes include a faulty camshaft position sensor, a faulty crankshaft position sensor, timing chain or belt issues, engine oil problems, or a malfunctioning VCT solenoid.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0018 in my Ford vehicle?

Diagnosis typically involves checking the camshaft and crankshaft sensors, inspecting the timing components, verifying oil levels and quality, and testing the VCT solenoid functionality.

5. Can driving with OBDII code P0018 in a Ford vehicle cause further damage?

Continued driving with this code present can potentially cause damage to the engine, affect performance, and lead to more severe issues over time. It is recommended to address the problem promptly.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0018 in my Ford vehicle?

Repair methods may include replacing the camshaft or crankshaft position sensors, addressing timing chain/belt issues, ensuring proper engine oil levels and quality, and replacing a faulty VCT solenoid if necessary.

7. Is it safe to continue driving my Ford vehicle with OBDII code P0018 pending?

It is not recommended to drive with a pending OBDII code like P0018, as it indicates a potential issue that needs attention. Continuing to drive may worsen the problem and lead to more costly repairs.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0018 in a Ford vehicle?

Depending on the root cause, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address this code by replacing sensors, checking timing components, or servicing the VCT solenoid. However, complex issues may require professional intervention.

9. How can I prevent OBDII code P0018 from occurring in my Ford vehicle?

Regular maintenance, such as timely oil changes, monitoring engine performance, and addressing any unusual symptoms promptly, can help prevent issues that may trigger code P0018.

10. Will resetting the OBDII code P0018 in my Ford vehicle make the problem disappear?

Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but it will not fix the underlying issue causing code P0018. It is crucial to diagnose and address the root problem to prevent further complications.