P0018 Crank/cam sync: readings don't match ("A", bank 2)

By: Diagno editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-15

P0018 means: Crank/cam sync: readings don't match ("A", bank 2). The crankshaft and camshaft sensor signals don't line up. Don't drive until the car has been checked. The engine could be damaged. The repair usually costs about €100–1400 in Estonia. The most common cause: timing chain or belt stretched or jumped a tooth.

What it means

The crankshaft and camshaft sensor signals don't line up. The computer sees that the engine timing has shifted. Bank 2 is the side of a V engine without cylinder 1.

What you may notice

• Engine light on
• Hard starting or stalling
• Chain rattle on cold start
• Less power

What could be wrong

1. 1Timing chain or belt stretched or jumped a tooth
2. 2Weak chain tensioner
3. 3Faulty crankshaft or camshaft sensor
4. 4Camshaft phaser stuck

Repair difficulty: Hard

What you can check yourself

Listen to a cold start. If the engine rattles for a few seconds, the chain has probably stretched. Don't drive long distances until it's checked. Best left to a workshop. It needs a diagnostic tool and experience.

How we fix it

1. We check the sensor signals and chain stretch on the diagnostic tool
2. We check the timing marks
3. We replace the chain or belt kit, or the sensor if that's the fault

Standard SAE description: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 2 Sensor A)