AutoCodes – Pontiac – P0018 Pontiac

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

Quick Answer

The Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor is a permanent magnet generator, known as a variable reluctance sensor. Common causes include Mechanical timing fault, Blocked oil passage, Low oil level. 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 Pontiac indicates Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor 'A'.
Common causes: Common causes include Mechanical timing fault, Blocked oil passage, Low oil level.
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 4,435

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

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 Jun 28, 2020

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

The Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor is a permanent magnet generator, known as a variable reluctance sensor. The magnetic field of the sensor is altered by a crankshaft mounted reluctor wheel that has seven machined slots, 6 of which are equally spaced 60 degrees apart. The seventh slot is spaced 10 degrees after one of the 60 degree slots. The CKP sensor produces seven pulses for each revolution of the crankshaft. The pulse from the 10 degree slot is known as the sync pulse. The sync pulse is used to synchronize the coil firing sequence with the crankshaft position. The CKP sensor is connected to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) by a signal circuit and a low reference circuit.
The Camshaft Position (CMP) sensor is triggered by a notched reluctor wheel built into the exhaust camshaft sprocket. The CMP sensor provides 6 signal pulses every camshaft revolution. Each notch, or feature of the reluctor wheel is of a different size for individual cylinder identification. This means the CMP and crankshaft position (CKP) signals are pulse width encoded to enable the PCM to constantly monitor their relationship. This relationship is used to determine camshaft actuator position and control its phasing at the correct value. The PCM also uses this signal to identify the compression stroke of each cylinder, and for sequential fuel injection. The CMP sensor is connected to the PCM by a 12-volt, low reference, and signal circuit.

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0018 Pontiac?

Mechanical timing fault
Blocked oil passage
Low oil level
Faulty Intake ('A') Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor
Faulty Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor

How to Fix the DTC P0018 Pontiac?

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

If this Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) started after recent internal engine repairs, inspect for proper engine mechanical timing. With the camshaft cover removed and the #1 cylinder at top dead center, make sure that the darkened chain links are lined up with the alignment marks on the exhaust and intake cam sprockets.

There is a factory service bulletin for the following Pontiac models:
2007-2010 Pontiac G6
2008-2009 Pontiac G8
2008-2009 Pontiac Torrent
Pontiac Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P0018

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0018 Pontiac 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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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.