The Quick Answer above is the generic definition. What follows is the model-specific detail for the Mercedes-Benz models that log P0018.
DTC/P0018·Mercedes-Benz
P0018 on Mercedes-Benz: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost
Quick Answer
High SeverityNot safe to driveMercedes-Benz
P0018 on a Mercedes-Benz means the crankshaft and the intake camshaft on bank 2 are not in the correct rotational relationship. Bank 2 is the cylinder bank that does not contain cylinder 1, and because an inline engine has a single cylinder head with one set of camshafts, this camshaft code only appears on engines with two cylinder heads: V engines (V6, V8, V10, V12) and flat (boxer) engines. The ECU sees the bank 2 intake cam position deviate from the commanded angle, typically because of a stretched chain, a failed VVT solenoid or low oil pressure.
Typical repair cost, all makes€60 - €6000
Connect any standard Bluetooth OBD2 adapter to your Mercedes-Benz and Skanyx tells you what P0018 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 P0018 mean on a Mercedes-Benz?
Mercedes E-Class
2005-2024The M276 V6 and M278 V8 both commonly set P0018 around 100,000 to 150,000 km. Mercedes camshaft adjuster magnets (Magnet Stellglieder) fail on both banks but often one before the other. The M276 has separate solenoids per bank, each around 200 to 350 EUR. Use only MB-approved 229.5 or 229.51 oil to prevent recurrence.
What causes P0018 on a Mercedes-Benz?
Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P0018 page, these are the patterns noted for Mercedes-Benz models:
Mercedes E-ClassM276 V6 bank 2 camshaft adjuster solenoid failure
Mercedes E-ClassM278 V8 timing chain wear on bank 2
How to diagnose P0018 on a Mercedes-Benz 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
- Monitor live cam phasing data on bank 2 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). Compare actual versus commanded intake cam angle. Deviations over 5 to 10 degrees confirm a 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 Mercedes-Benz? (EUR)
Estimated repair costs for P0018 in EUR, compiled across makes. Expect Mercedes-Benz parts and labour towards the upper end of each range.
Prices estimated as of March 2026. Costs vary by region, vehicle, and shop.
Codes related to P0018
These codes are often seen alongside P0018 or point to related issues, on any make:
Looking for the full P0018 reference (all makes, full diagnosis flow, complete repair cost matrix)?
See the main P0018 guideSkanyx · Mercedes-Benz
Diagnose P0018 on your Mercedes-Benz
Your car logged P0018. Skanyx reads it on any standard Bluetooth OBD2 adapter, tells you whether it is safe to keep driving, and shows the €60-€6000 repair range so you know the number before a shop quotes you. Free on iPhone and Android, and you do not need to be a mechanic to read it.
Get Skanyx free