P0018 means the crankshaft and the intake camshaft on bank 2 are not in the correct rotational relationship. Bank 2 contains the cylinder not housing cylinder 1, so this code only appears on V-engines and some inline engines with multiple banks. The ECU detects the bank 2 intake cam position deviates from the commanded angle, typically due to a stretched chain, failed VVT solenoid, or low oil pressure.
DTC/P0018·BMW
P0018 on BMW: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost
Quick Answer
High SeverityNot safe to driveBMW
P0018 on a BMW means the crankshaft and the intake camshaft on bank 2 are not in the correct rotational relationship. Bank 2 contains the cylinder not housing cylinder 1, so this code only appears on V-engines and some inline engines with multiple banks. The ECU detects the bank 2 intake cam position deviates from the commanded angle, typically due to a stretched chain, failed VVT solenoid, or low oil pressure.
Repair cost on BMW€84 - €8400
What does P0018 mean on a BMW?
BMW 3 Series
2005–2024P0018 on a BMW 3 Series implies a V8 or V10 model: the M3 with the S65 V8 or rare M5 sedan variants with S63 V8. The S65 has known VANOS solenoid failures and rod bearing issues unrelated to P0018 but flagged in the same maintenance window. On the 335i with N54 or N55, bank 2 codes are uncommon because these are inline-6, but VANOS faults can still trigger correlation codes.
What causes P0018 on a BMW?
Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P0018 page, these are the BMW-specific patterns we see most often:
BMW 3 SeriesM3 S65 V8 VANOS solenoid failure on bank 2
BMW 3 Series335i N54/N55 inline-6 VANOS issue (rare for bank 2 code)
How to diagnose P0018 on a BMW with OBD2
Follow these steps to pinpoint the root cause of P0018:
- Check engine oil level and condition. V-engines are particularly sensitive to oil quality and pressure because both banks share the oil pump. Top up or change with the manufacturer-specified viscosity and clear the code
- Listen for cold-start rattle from the front of the engine. On V6 and V8 engines a stretched chain or worn tensioner makes a distinct 1 to 5 second rattle until oil pressure builds
- Use a scan tool to monitor live cam phasing data on bank 2. Compare actual versus commanded intake cam angle. Deviations over 5 to 10 degrees confirm mechanical timing fault
- Test the bank 2 intake VVT solenoid. Resistance typically 6 to 13 ohms. Inspect the screen for debris. A clogged screen blocks oil to the phaser and triggers P0018
- If the solenoid is good and oil pressure is normal, suspect the timing chain or guide wear on bank 2. A workshop will need to remove the valve cover for inspection. On many V-engines this is bank 2 specifically, not both banks
How much does P0018 cost to fix on a BMW? (EUR)
Estimated repair costs on a BMW (BMW parts and labour typically run 40% above the average for this code).
Prices estimated as of May 2026. Costs vary by region, vehicle, and shop.
Related codes that often appear with P0018 on BMW
These codes commonly cluster with P0018 on BMW vehicles:
FAQ: P0018 on BMW
What does Bank 2 mean for P0018?
Bank 2 is the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder 1. On V6 and V8 engines, the cylinders are split into two banks. P0018 only appears on engines with multiple banks (V6, V8, V10, V12). On an inline-4 you would not see this code because there is only one bank.
Why is P0018 more expensive to fix than P0011 or P0016?
Because P0018 is a bank 2 fault on a V-engine. V6 and V8 engines often have separate timing chains for each bank, or a single chain that requires significant disassembly to access. Labour can run 1500 to 3000 EUR on V-engines like the Audi 3.0 TFSI, Mercedes M276 V6, or VW 3.0 TDI.
Can a stretched timing chain show up on only one bank?
Yes, particularly on engines with separate chains for each bank (Mercedes M278, Audi EA837). Wear can be uneven if one bank runs hotter or experiences more load. When you have a confirmed stretched chain on bank 2, always inspect bank 1 at the same time because preventive replacement saves a second teardown later.
How much does it cost to fix P0018 on an Audi 3.0 TFSI?
Plan for 2500 to 4500 EUR at an independent specialist. The 3.0 TFSI requires removing the supercharger and significant front-engine disassembly to access the timing chain. Parts (chain kit, both adjusters, tensioner, guides) are typically 1200 to 1800 EUR. Labour is 1500 to 2500 EUR. A dealer quote will be 30 to 50 percent higher.
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See the main P0018 guideSkanyx · BMW
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