P0011 on BMW: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost
Quick Answer
Safe to drive (short-term)
P0011 on a BMW means the intake camshaft on bank 1 is positioned more advanced than the ECU commanded it to be. The variable valve timing system is not responding correctly, typically due to oil flow issues, a faulty VVT solenoid, or a stretched timing chain affecting cam position.
- Severity
- Moderate · Emissions
- Typical repair cost, all makes
- €55-€2300
Connect a standard OBD2 adapter (Bluetooth LE on iPhone) to your BMW and Skanyx tells you what P0011 means on that engine, whether it is safe to keep driving, and what the fix should cost. Free on iPhone and Android.
Get Skanyx freeWhat does P0011 mean on a BMW?
The Quick Answer above is the generic definition. What follows is the model-specific detail for the BMW models that log P0011.
BMW 3 Series
2005-2013
The E90 generation of the 3 Series (E90, E91, E92, E93) was sold with the N52 six-cylinder petrol (325i, 328i, 330i) and the turbocharged N54 (335i, 2006-2010), both with double-VANOS variable valve timing. P0011 means the intake camshaft sits further advanced than the engine computer asked for. VANOS is adjusted with engine oil pressure, so check oil level, grade and condition before replacing parts.
Source: en.wikipedia.org, en.wikipedia.org
Sources
- en.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_N52
- en.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_N54
What causes P0011 on a BMW?
Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P0011 page, these are the patterns noted for BMW models:
Low or dirty oil slowing the VANOS response
: BMW 3 Series
VANOS solenoid stuck or fouled
: BMW 3 Series
How to diagnose P0011 on a BMW with OBD2
- Check engine oil level and condition. Low, dirty, or incorrect viscosity oil is the most common cause. Change oil if overdue and clear the code
- Read the actual camshaft advance angle and the target angle commanded by the ECU with manufacturer-level software (actual and target cam angles are not part of the standard OBD2 data set; a generic reader shows the code, freeze frame and fuel trims). A persistent gap between the two confirms the VVT system is not following commands
- Inspect and test the VVT solenoid. Measure resistance (typically 6-13 ohms) and check for clogged screens. Commanding the solenoid on and off is an actuator test that needs manufacturer-level software
- Listen for timing chain rattle on cold startup. A stretched chain will cause a brief rattle that fades as oil pressure builds
- If the solenoid and oil are fine, inspect timing chain stretch with a scope or by checking timing marks alignment
How much does P0011 cost to fix on a BMW? (EUR)
Estimated repair costs for P0011 in EUR, compiled across makes. Expect BMW parts and labour towards the upper end of each range.
| Repair | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Total Estimate | DIY Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil and filter change (if dirty oil is the cause) | €25–€80 | €30–€80 | €55–€160 | Easy |
| Replace VVT solenoid | €25–€130 | €40–€120 | €65–€250 | Moderate |
| Replace timing chain and tensioner | €150–€600 | €400–€1700 | €550–€2300 | Professional |
| Replace camshaft phaser/actuator | €80–€300 | €200–€600 | €280–€900 | Professional |
Prices estimated as of October 2026. Costs vary by region, vehicle, and shop.
Codes related to P0011
These codes are often seen alongside P0011 or point to related issues, on any make:
Looking for the full P0011 reference (all makes, full diagnosis flow, complete repair cost matrix)? See the main P0011 guide