P0018 on Volkswagen: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost
Quick Answer
Not safe to drive
P0018 on a Volkswagen 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. VW, Audi, Skoda and SEAT apps often show this code as P001800; the last two digits are a failure-type byte.
- Severity
- High · Ignition
- Typical repair cost, all makes
- €60-€6000
Connect a standard OBD2 adapter (Bluetooth LE on iPhone) to your Volkswagen 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 Volkswagen?
The Quick Answer above is the generic definition. What follows is the model-specific detail for the Volkswagen models that log P0018.
Volkswagen Touareg
2005-2024
The Touareg 3.0 TFSI EA837 V6 and 3.0 TDI V6 are the typical P0018 sources. On the 3.0 TDI (CASA, CASB), bank 2 timing chain stretch is well documented and often appears with P0016, P0017, or P0019. The 3.0 TFSI requires supercharger removal for chain work. Plan for 3000 EUR or more on either engine at an independent VAG specialist.
What causes P0018 on a Volkswagen?
Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P0018 page, these are the patterns noted for Volkswagen models:
3.0 TDI V6 bank 2 chain stretch (CASA/CASB)
: Volkswagen Touareg
3.0 TFSI V6 bank 2 camshaft adjuster failure
: Volkswagen Touareg
How to diagnose P0018 on a Volkswagen with OBD2
- 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 Volkswagen? (EUR)
Estimated repair costs for P0018 in EUR, compiled across makes. Expect Volkswagen parts and labour towards the upper end of each range.
| Repair | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Total Estimate | DIY Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oil change with correct spec oil | €40–€100 | €20–€50 | €60–€150 | Easy |
| Replace bank 2 intake VVT solenoid | €80–€300 | €60–€200 | €140–€500 | Moderate |
| Replace timing chain kit (V6/V8 with multiple chains) | €800–€3000 | €800–€3000 | €1600–€6000 | Professional |
Prices estimated as of October 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 guide