Save the code, other faults and available data. Report recent timing or cylinder-head work. Have the exact engine diagnosed before buying parts; clear only after repair.
What P0011 tells you
P0011 is associated with abnormal intake camshaft positioning performance. The engine computer commands variable timing and monitors the response. A mismatch alone does not prove a failed sensor, oil-control solenoid, actuator or mechanical timing drive. Wording and diagnostic criteria vary by manufacturer, so use the service information for the exact engine.
P0016 concerns crankshaft–camshaft correlation; P0340 refers to the cam sensor circuit. They are different codes and may coexist with P0011. Their status, accompanying symptoms and order of appearance matter more than a one-line app translation. A generic scan cannot identify the physical cause by itself.
Choose the next step from the symptoms
If the engine runs roughly, stalls, loses substantial power or makes an unusual mechanical noise, stop safely and seek professional advice before driving on. P0011 alone cannot establish a safe distance. With a steady light and otherwise normal behaviour, arrange a prompt inspection and preserve the evidence.
Check the oil level only as your own handbook instructs. Note any recent oil service, top-up, cylinder-head or timing work; these are useful clues, not proof. Do not remove a solenoid or actuator on the basis of this guide.
| Documented vehicles and engines | Bulletin context | Professional check described |
|---|---|---|
| Cadillac ATS, Buick Regal/LaCrosse/Verano and Chevrolet Malibu 2013–2014; CTS and Impala 2014; 2.0 LTG or 2.5 LCV/LKW as specified | PIP5162: P0011 and/or P0014 after normal service diagnosis is inconclusive | Check solenoid screens for debris, then assess oil passages and actuator according to findings. |
| Chevrolet Sonic 2012, Cruze 2011–2012, Aveo 2009–2011 and other listed GM models; 1.6/1.8 L LXV, 2HO or LUW | PIP4543C: timing code after cam actuator or cylinder-head removal | After normal checks, inspect an engine-specific oil sleeve that may be missing or damaged. |
Manufacturer documents, not OBDPhone® tests of these engines. The bulletins specify models and engines; they do not establish applicability to European variants. Neither cause should be assumed on another vehicle.
Why the two bulletins lead to different checks
GM PIP5162 (November 2013) begins with standard service diagnosis. Only if that fails to resolve P0011 or P0014 does the technician inspect solenoid screens and oil passages. It does not prescribe a solenoid replacement for every P0011.
GM PIP4543C (February 2013) describes a different setting: a timing code following actuator removal on certain engines. A missing oil sleeve may prevent proper actuator control. The bulletin addresses trained technicians and does not say every listed car is affected. Official sources checked 3 October 2026.
Take useful evidence to the workshop
Photograph the dashboard and save P0011 with its status, accompanying codes and available freeze-frame information. Record model, year, fuel, exact engine and mileage. State when the last oil service occurred and whether head or timing components were recently disturbed. Missing app data do not rule out a fault.
Ask which checks suit this engine: oil condition and level under its handbook, timing control, electrical connections, actuator response and mechanical timing if indicated. Test values and procedures are vehicle-specific. Avoid buying a chain or sensor before a cause is established.
- Current or stored P0011 and any P0014, P0016 or P0340.
- Symptoms, noises, warning-lamp behaviour and when they began.
- Available live and freeze-frame data before clearing.
- Exact engine, mileage, oil service and recent repairs.
What OBDPhone® contributes
OBDPhone® reads generic engine and emissions fault codes and available engine data. It helps you share P0011 and its context with a repairer. It cannot measure mechanical timing or replace manufacturer service checks. No additional code is not proof of a healthy timing system.
Save the evidence and clear only after repair to check for a recurrence. ABS, airbag, traction battery, coding, programming and manufacturer-specific functions are not guaranteed. Check compatibility or email support@obdphone.com.
Frequently asked questions
The essential answers.
Does P0011 require a new solenoid?+
No. The code reports timing-system performance; the GM examples call for different checks depending on engine and history.
Does P0011 prove the timing chain is stretched?+
No. Oil-control or recent repair issues can be relevant; mechanical timing needs a vehicle-specific check.
Are P0011 and P0016 the same?+
No. P0011 concerns positioning performance; P0016 concerns crankshaft–camshaft correlation.
Can I clear P0011 before the garage visit?+
Save codes and data first. Clear only after repair; clearing is not a fix.
This guide supports an initial understanding. It does not replace the vehicle manual, manufacturer safety instructions or an assessment by a qualified professional.
Primary sources
Reviewed to verify the facts and show why procedures depend on the vehicle.