AutoCodes – Saturn – P0011 Saturn

P0011 Saturn Code - Intake Camshaft Position System Performance

Quick Answer

The Camshaft Position (CMP) actuator system enables the Engine Control Module (ECM) to change the timing of the camshafts while the engine is operating. Common causes include Low or Dirty Engine Oil, Faulty Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid, Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid harness is open or shorted. 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 Saturn indicates Intake Camshaft Position System Performance.
Common causes
Common causes include Low or Dirty Engine Oil, Faulty Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid, Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid harness is open or shorted.
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 34,422
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 20, 2022
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Code P0011 Saturn Description

The Camshaft Position (CMP) actuator system enables the Engine Control Module (ECM) to change the timing of the camshafts while the engine is operating. The Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve signal from the ECM is Pulse Width Modulated (PWM). The ECM controls the Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve duty cycle by controlling the amount of solenoid valve ON time. The Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve controls the advance or the retard of each camshaft. The Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve controls the oil flow that applies the pressure to advance or retard the camshafts.
Ignition voltage is supplied directly to the Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve. The ECM controls the solenoid valve by grounding the control circuit with a solid-state device called a driver. The driver is equipped with a feedback circuit that is pulled up to a voltage. The ECM can determine if the control circuit is open, shorted to the ground, or shorted to a voltage by monitoring the feedback voltage.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects an open solenoid circuit in the CMP actuator for greater than 1 second or a cumulative of 5 seconds when the solenoid is commanded OFF.
The ECM monitors the performance of the camshaft position (CMP) actuator system by monitoring the calibrated desired position and the actual position of the camshaft, through the 4X signal of the CMP sensor. If the difference between the actual and the desired position is greater than a calibrated angle for a calibrated amount of time, DTC P0011 will be set.
OBDII Code P0011 Saturn - Intake Camshaft Position System Performance - AutoCodes.com
P0011 Saturn Code - Intake Camshaft Position System Performance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0011 Saturn?

  • Low or Dirty Engine Oil
  • Faulty Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid
  • Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid harness is open or shorted
  • Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0011 Saturn?

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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0011 Saturn 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.

Need more information about the P0011 Saturn code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0011 Saturn code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 P0011 Saturn Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0011 in a Saturn related to the Intake Camshaft Position System Performance?

The common symptoms include rough idling, decreased fuel efficiency, engine misfires, and the Check Engine light illuminated on the dashboard.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0011 in a Saturn?

The code P0011 in a Saturn is usually caused by issues with the camshaft position actuator solenoid, incorrect camshaft timing, dirty engine oil, or a faulty camshaft position sensor.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0011 in my Saturn?

Diagnosing the code P0011 involves checking the camshaft position sensor, inspecting the camshaft position actuator solenoid, verifying camshaft timing, and ensuring the engine oil is clean and at the correct level.

4. What are some repair tips for resolving OBDII code P0011 in a Saturn?

Repair tips for addressing code P0011 include replacing the camshaft position sensor, cleaning or replacing the camshaft position actuator solenoid, correcting camshaft timing, and performing an oil change.

5. Can I continue driving my Saturn with OBDII code P0011 present?

It is not recommended to continue driving your Saturn with code P0011 present, as it can lead to further engine damage and potentially unsafe driving conditions. It's best to address the issue promptly.

6. Is it safe to reset the Check Engine light after fixing OBDII code P0011 in my Saturn?

Once you have fixed the issue causing code P0011 in your Saturn, you can safely reset the Check Engine light using an OBDII scanner to clear the error code from the system.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0011 in a Saturn?

The cost to repair code P0011 in a Saturn can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from $200 to $500 for parts and labor at a dealership or auto repair shop.

8. Will OBDII code P0011 in a Saturn affect the vehicle's performance?

Yes, code P0011 can affect the performance of your Saturn by causing rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential engine misfires if left unresolved.

9. Is it necessary to visit a mechanic to fix OBDII code P0011 in a Saturn, or can I address it myself?

While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address code P0011 themselves by replacing components like the camshaft position sensor, it is recommended to consult a mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair to ensure the issue is resolved correctly.

10. How often does OBDII code P0011 related to the Intake Camshaft Position System Performance occur in Saturn vehicles?

Code P0011 related to the Intake Camshaft Position System Performance is a relatively common issue in Saturn vehicles, especially in models with higher mileage or inadequate maintenance practices.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0011 Saturn OBDII Code

  • 2007 Saturn sky 2.4 engine hesitating upon acceleration. Codes p0010, p0011, p0014. Replaced MAN sensor, intake sensor, exhaust sensor, intake soliniod and exhaust soliniod, spark plugs, air filter . There was oil on 2 of the spark plugs and people are saying valve cover gaskets and piston rings! !!! Still hesitating! !!! Please help

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