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·Volkswagen
P0018 on Volkswagen: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost
Quick Answer
High SeverityNot safe to driveVolkswagen
P0018 on a Volkswagen 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 Volkswagen€90 - €9000
What does P0018 mean on a Volkswagen?
Volkswagen Touareg
2005–2024The 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 Volkswagen-specific patterns we see most often:
Volkswagen Touareg3.0 TDI V6 bank 2 chain stretch (CASA/CASB)
Volkswagen Touareg3.0 TFSI V6 bank 2 camshaft adjuster failure
How to diagnose P0018 on a Volkswagen 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 Volkswagen? (EUR)
Estimated repair costs on a Volkswagen (Volkswagen parts and labour typically run 50% 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 Volkswagen
These codes commonly cluster with P0018 on Volkswagen vehicles:
FAQ: P0018 on Volkswagen
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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