Engine-Codes - Cadillac - P0018 Cadillac

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

- Code Popularity: 14,720 Views
- Repair Importance Level: 3/3
- Repair Difficulty Level: 3/3
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What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0018 Cadillac?

NOTE: The causes shown may not be a complete list of all potential problems, and it is possible that there may be other causes.
  • Mechanical timing fault
  • Blocked oil passage
  • Low oil level
  • Faulty Intake ('A') Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor
  • Faulty Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor

Code Tech Notes

2016-2019 Cadillac ATS
2016-2019 Cadillac CTS
2016-2020 Cadillac CT6
2017-2020 Cadillac XT5
2020 Cadillac CT5 3.0L V6 or 3.6L V6
2020 Cadillac XT6 3.0L V6 or 3.6L V6
Technical Article: Diagnosing DTCs P0016 and P0018

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 Cadillac models:
2007-2011 Cadillac STS
2007-2012 Cadillac SRX
2008-2012 Cadillac CTS
Cadillac Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P0018

⚠ Does your Cadillac have Safety Recalls? → Check here

How to Fix the DTC P0018 Cadillac?

Check the 'Possible Causes' listed above. Visually inspect the related wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and look for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins.

Search for P0018 Cadillac Questions and Answers: Search here →

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

The cost to diagnose the P0018 Cadillac code is 1.0 hour of labor. The diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops vary depending on the location, make and model of the vehicle, and even the engine type. Most auto repair shops charge between $75 and $150 per hour.

When is the Code Detected?

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected the actual Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor angle of one camshaft is greater or less than the commanded state.

What are Code Possible Symptoms?

  • Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)
  • Engine hard to start
  • Engine stall while driving

What Does the P0018 Cadillac Code Mean?

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

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