P0011 fault code: 'A' Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance

Last updated · OBDCode UK editorial

Can I drive with P0011? — Limit your driving

Our verified driving guidance for P0011 is: limited driving. Short, gentle trips to a garage are the intent. Do not thrash the engine, and stop if it knocks, loses power, or will not start.

P0011 means “'A' Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance” — a fuel and air metering fault in the powertrain. Limit your driving. The computer thinks the bank-1 intake camshaft is timed too far advanced, or the variable-timing system is not doing what it was asked. Ignore it and the engine can be harmed. This is not a simple bulb fault.

Can I DIY?

Caution — conditions apply. We do not publish DIY repair or strip-down steps for this code on this page. Read codes and observe only; leave the repair to a qualified garage.

Caution — conditions applyDIY boundary
ToolsBasic tools only — for example a household socket set, tyre gauge, or a consumer OBD reader.

Some checks may be possible for a careful DIY driver with the right tools and a safe place to work. Stop if anything feels beyond your skill or kit.

P00xxFuel and air metering
MOT fail riskif the warning light stays on

What does P0011 mean?

P0011 is a generic (SAE standard) powertrain code reported by your car’s engine control unit. It sits in the P00xx block, which covers fuel and air metering. The stored description is “'A' Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance”. The code itself tells you which circuit or system tripped the fault — not always the exact part that failed.

How to diagnose P0011 yourself

  1. Confirm P0011 and related timing codes: Scan with the car stationary. Record P0011 as current or pending, freeze-frame rpm, and any companion codes such as crank-cam correlation (P0016) or cam-sensor circuit faults. Do not clear the memory to 'reset the timing'. Stop if: The engine knocks, will not start, or the management light is flashing.
    Generic driver footwell showing a broad OBD-II socket search zone and the usual 16-pin socket shape.
    Park safely and switch off before locating the socket. Its position varies, so use the vehicle handbook and never force or dismantle trim.
  2. Check engine oil level when cold: Park on firm level ground with the engine cold. Read the dipstick or the handbook electronic level display. Refit the dipstick and oil filler fully. Do not open a hot oil filler to 'top up and see', and do not change the oil from this page. Stop if: The level is below minimum, the oil looks metallic or milky, or an oil-pressure warning is on — do not keep driving.
    Oil dipstick with the correct oil level between the MIN and MAX marks.
    If fitted, check the dipstick on firm, level ground with the engine cold, then refit it fully. Use the handbook for electronic level displays.
  3. Listen at a cold start, then stop: In open air, start the engine once and listen from outside the car for a few seconds. You are only judging whether a new harsh knock or chain-like rattle is present. Switch off. Do not remove covers, lock the engine, or follow any cambelt procedure. Stop if: You hear a knock, the engine will not idle, or you would need to go under the car — call recovery.

Will P0011 fail an MOT?

An illuminated engine management light is a Major defect at MOT until the fault is repaired and the lamp stays off. Cam timing itself is not a separate named MOT check.

Before booking your test, check what usually fails on your car: see our MOT pass rates by make and model, built from 33.1 million DVSA tests.

What the MOT data says

No MOT certificate item corresponds to this code; MOT outcome data cannot be shown.

Related guides

Car diagnostic test cost: compare the scopeUK booking marketplaces currently publish diagnostic averages of about £52–£65. Engine management light on: steady or flashing?A steady engine management light means the computer has stored a fault. Drive with caution and get the code read. A flashing light is different — stop when it is safe.
P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open P0002Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance P0003Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low P0004Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High P0005Fuel Shutoff Valve 'A' Control Circuit/Open P0006Fuel Shutoff Valve 'A' Control Circuit Low P0007Fuel Shutoff Valve 'A' Control Circuit High P0008Engine Position System Performance

P0011 — quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0011?

Limit your driving. Our verified driving guidance for P0011 is: limited driving. Short, gentle trips to a garage are the intent. Do not thrash the engine, and stop if it knocks, loses power, or will not start.

Can I fix P0011 myself?

Caution — conditions apply. We do not publish DIY repair or strip-down steps for this code on this page. Read codes and observe only; leave the repair to a qualified garage. Basic tools only — for example a household socket set, tyre gauge, or a consumer OBD reader.

Will P0011 fail my MOT?

An illuminated engine management light is a Major defect at MOT until the fault is repaired and the lamp stays off. Cam timing itself is not a separate named MOT check.

Fault-code identifiers are standard diagnostic facts. Their explanations and diagnostic guidance on this site are original editorial summaries, not reproduced SAE wording. MOT defect rules reflect the DVSA MOT inspection manual (2026). This page is general guidance for UK drivers, not a substitute for a professional diagnosis.