P0011 Ford Code - 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
Quick Answer
The Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) solenoid valve is an integral part of the VCT system. Common causes include Low or Dirty Engine Oil, Incorrect camshaft timing, Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Bank 1 Solenoid 1 (VCT11). 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
- P0011 Ford indicates 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Low or Dirty Engine Oil, Incorrect camshaft timing, Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Bank 1 Solenoid 1 (VCT11).
- 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.
Code P0011 Ford Description
The PCM calculates and determines the desired camshaft position. It continually updates the VCT solenoid duty cycle until the desired position is achieved. A difference between the desired and actual camshaft position represents a position error in the PCM VCT control loop. The PCM disables the VCT and places the camshaft in a default position if a concern is detected. A related Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) also sets when the concern is detected.
When the VCT solenoid is energized, engine oil is allowed to flow to the VCT actuator assembly which advances or retards the camshaft timing. One half of the VCT actuator is coupled to the camshaft and the other half is connected to the timing chain. Oil chambers between the 2 halves couple the camshaft to the timing chain. When the flow of oil is shifted from one side of the chamber to the other, the differential change in oil pressure forces the camshaft to rotate in either an advance or retard position depending on the oil flow.
This DTC sets when the VCT position is over-advanced. This DTC sets when the camshaft timing exceeds a maximum calibrated value or remains in an advanced position.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0011 Ford?
- Low or Dirty Engine Oil
- Incorrect camshaft timing
- Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Bank 1 Solenoid 1 (VCT11)
- Faulty Camshaft Position (CMP) Bank 1 Sensor 1 (CMP11)
- Variable Camshaft Timing Bank 1 Solenoid 1 circuit is open or shorted
- Variable Camshaft Timing Bank 1 Solenoid 1 circuit poor electrical connection
- Camshaft Position Bank 1 Sensor 1 circuit is open or shorted
- Camshaft Position Bank 1 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing Phaser
How to Fix the DTC P0011 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.
Code Tech Notes
There is a Factory Service Bulletin for the 2002-2003 Ford Focus:
2002-2003 Ford Focus Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P0011
User Submitted Video
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the P0011 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
- P0011 2015 Ford F150 — 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0011 2016 Ford F150 — 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0011 2017 Ford F150 — 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0011 2018 Ford F150 — 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0011 2019 Ford F150 — 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0011 2020 Ford F150 — 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0011 2006 Ford Fusion — Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over Advance Bank 1
- P0011 2007 Ford Fusion — Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over Advance Bank 1
- P0011 2008 Ford Fusion — Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over Advance Bank 1
- P0011 2009 Ford Fusion — Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over Advance Bank 1
- P0011 2010 Ford Fusion — Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over Advance Bank 1
- P0011 2011 Ford Fusion — Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over Advance Bank 1
- P0011 2012 Ford Fusion — Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over Advance Bank 1
Frequently Asked Questions about P0011 Ford Code
1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0011 in a Ford related to the 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1?
- Common symptoms include rough idling, engine misfires, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential stalling.
2. What are some possible causes of the P0011 code indicating 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1 in a Ford?
- Causes may include a faulty camshaft position sensor, issues with the variable valve timing (VVT) system, engine oil sludge, or timing chain/belt problems.
3. How can I diagnose the root cause of the P0011 code on my Ford indicating 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1?
- Diagnosing the issue may involve checking the camshaft position sensor, inspecting the VVT system, verifying the timing chain/belt condition, and ensuring proper oil flow and level.
4. Can driving with the P0011 code related to 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1 in a Ford cause further damage?
- Continuing to drive with this code may lead to further engine damage, reduced performance, and potential engine failure, so it's recommended to address the issue promptly.
5. What are some repair tips for fixing the P0011 code on a Ford due to 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1?
- Repair tips may include replacing the camshaft position sensor, addressing VVT system issues, performing an oil change and cleaning, and inspecting the timing chain/belt for wear.
6. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P0011 in a Ford indicating 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1 without fixing the underlying issue?
- While you can clear the code with a diagnostic tool, it's crucial to address the root cause to prevent potential engine problems and ensure optimal performance.
7. Can a DIY enthusiast tackle the repair of the P0011 code related to 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1 in a Ford?
- Depending on your mechanical skills and tools available, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address this code by following repair guides, but complex issues may require professional help.
8. How much does it typically cost to repair the P0011 code indicating 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1 in a Ford at a dealership or mechanic?
- Repair costs can vary widely based on the specific problem, location, and labor rates, but expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $800 or more for parts and labor.
9. Will fixing the OBDII code P0011 in a Ford related to 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1 improve engine performance and fuel efficiency?
- Yes, resolving this code can lead to smoother engine operation, improved fuel efficiency, and overall better vehicle performance.
10. How urgent is it to address the P0011 code indicating 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1 in a Ford?
- It's advisable to address this code promptly to prevent potential engine damage, ensure safety, and avoid more costly repairs in the future.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P0011 Ford OBDII Code
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What model is your Ford? you probably have to replaced the camshaft position sensor.
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I have a 2009 Ford Escape and the engine check light is on had it checked at auto parts store and they say Intake timing position camshaft bank 1 & 2 is was showed on machine is it dangerous for me to be driving it? will it hurt anything in the engine?
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It could cause a hard or no start situation, poor gas mileage and in the worst case scenario cause the engine to stall.
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I have a 2005 f150 5.4 4x4 ford truck and the code at the advanced auto said poo11 code bank 1. Where is the sensor located on my motor? They said it was a intake camshaft positioning timing problem. Can you send a picture? Thanks.
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I have a 2013 Ford explorer sport. I have had 23 codes come up at one time and P0011 is just one of them. Is there a way to fix this problem by just changing the sensor or must it go to the shop?
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Are there any other symptoms (rough idle, stall)? I suggest starting by clearing all the codes and drive your vehicle. Make sure the battery is fully charge and the terminals are clean and tight.
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I have a 2007 F150 5.4 3 valve and codes p0011cam position, p0021 cam position, p0304 cly 4 misfire, p0316 engine miss on start, p0420 catalyst threshold, and p0430 catalyst threshold came up. It idles and drives very rough. I'm assuming the catalyst threshold codes are from the misfire and unburned fuel. But the others im not sure. Might be the cam position sensor according to the other posts on here. I'm just hoping it's not a cam phaser going bad.
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It was none of the above. Condensation from the coolant lines (I'm guessing they go to the heater core) running right above cylinder 4 had gotten down around the spark plug and corroded it to the point it wouldn't work. So a new plug fixed the issue.
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i have a 2006 ford fusion 3.0 engine and i keep getting the P0011 error code. i changed both cam shaft sensors, crankshaft sensors, sparkplugs, and the bad coils. what else could cause the problem of it jerking when slowing down or backing up?
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I have a Ford Focus 1.0 ecoboost it’s come up with P0011 error. Could you tell me how to locate the valve solenoid?
Also if it is the timing chain that’s out of position, does this happen often or is it a rare thing. -
Let me get the correct information. What year is your Focus? how is the engine oil level and condition?
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It's not a common problem. I recommend starting by changing the engine oil and filter. Make sure you use the oil weight recommended by the factory.
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I changed the oil 2 days ago using the recommended oil and filter, and reset the code and the engine light came up again about 20 minutes later and the same code is appearing
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I have a 2005 F150 Lariat 5.4 4x4. I keep getting the p0011 code. I replaced my oil and oil filter, I have put 2 new vvt solenoid, new cam position sensors, new spark plugs and I keep getting code p0011. The truck drives fine. It doesn’t stall, it doesn’t shake, it doesn’t have a hard start but it does have the infamous 5.4 tick. What can this be? Are my cam phasers bad?
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Unfortunately, I haven't had that problem before. I've checked a national database of repairs for that same model, year and engine size, and according the database a few of shops found that the camshaft phaser (B1), as you mention, was the problem.
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The P0017 is for the Camshaft Position Sensor, but since you have both codes, then the problem is more than likely the Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Oil Control Solenoid Bank 1. For your vehicle Bank 1 is the passenger side.
P0011 FORD Code - Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over Advance Bank 1
Read more: https://www.autocodes.com/p...P0017 FORD Code - Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor 'B'
Read more: https://www.autocodes.com/p...
Click here to enlarge image -
2015 Ford Taurus SHO was running fine when I parked it. Next day started but sounded like it was miss-firing and has no power. The tachometer is a little erratic and the OBDII shows p0011
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That P0011 code on your Taurus SHO points to the intake cam timing being over-advanced on Bank 1. Since you mentioned it ran fine before and now has misfires and no power, there's a good chance the VCT solenoid (variable cam timing) is sticking or failed.
It could also be caused by low oil level, dirty oil, or a bad oil control valve—this system relies heavily on clean oil to operate properly. First thing I’d check: oil level and condition. If it’s low or dirty, do a full oil and filter change.
Also keep in mind, the 3.5L EcoBoost is known for timing chain stretch over time. If you hear any rattling from the timing cover area or see correlation issues between crank and cam sensors, you may be dealing with a stretched chain or worn guides.
If the tach is erratic, that could be from the misfire or from the cam timing being off enough to confuse the PCM.
Start with the oil check and scan live data for cam advance while cranking—feel free to post results and I’ll help you walk through it.
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