P0011 on Peugeot: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost
Quick Answer
Safe to drive (short-term)
P0011 on a Peugeot 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 Peugeot 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 Peugeot?
The Quick Answer above is the generic definition. What follows is the model-specific detail for the Peugeot models that log P0011.
Peugeot 308
2007-2013
The first-generation 308 (2007-2013) was sold with the naturally aspirated 1.6 and the turbocharged 1.6 THP petrol engines (EP6, developed together with BMW), both chain-driven. French magazine L'Argus names the hydraulic chain tensioner as the most common failure on these engines: it lets the chain stretch, which can destroy the engine. PSA fitted a revised tensioner in July 2009, but L'Argus reports chain trouble until early 2013 and fewer failures from 2014. If the engine rattles after a cold start, have the chain checked before replacing solenoids.
Source: largus.fr, en.wikipedia.org
Sources
- largus.fr largus.fr/actualite-automobile/fiabilite-peugeotcitroends-tous-les-defauts-des-m
- en.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prince_engine
What causes P0011 on a Peugeot?
Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P0011 page, these are the patterns noted for Peugeot models:
Timing chain stretch from a failing hydraulic tensioner on the 1.6 (EP6) petrol engines
: Peugeot 308
Oil-driven VVT actuator slowed by old or low oil
: Peugeot 308
How to diagnose P0011 on a Peugeot 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 Peugeot? (EUR)
Estimated repair costs for P0011 in EUR, compiled across makes. Expect Peugeot 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