Top Makes and Models with DTC P0011

General Motors brands (Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick) represent 40% of the automakers on this list of cars with a history of code P0011 occurrences. These results are unsurprising as many GM models share components. For instance, the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain compact crossovers are identical mechanically. So, seeing both models with the same (high) occurrence rating is to be expected.

However, there are a few twists. The GMC Acadia midsize crossover has a high occurrence rating, but its platform-mate, the Buick Enclave, has a moderate level. More interestingly, another near clone, the better-seller Chevrolet Traverse, doesn’t even make the list. 

Meanwhile, Ford products don’t escape P0011 troubles, yet the results differ vastly. Most Ford models, such as the Edge, Escape, Fusion, Mustang, Ranger, and Taurus, have a history of P0011 incidents, but a low level. Yet the company’s top vehicle, the venerable F-150, has a high overall occurrence rating. 

Detroit’s heavyweights aren’t the only affected players. Like Ford, many Nissan models, including the Pathfinder, Rogue, and Sentra, have histories with P0011 codes. The worst is the Murano crossover. Nissan’s luxury division, Infiniti, has a showing with the G35, a model that’s been out of production since 2015.

Numerous Toyota models—4Runner, Corolla, Highlander, Prius, and RAV4—are susceptible to the same problem. Yet, one name is missing from the list: the Camry. German automakers also have a presence on this index, with Audi and Volkswagen completing the list of top ten manufacturers with code P0011 troubles. 

Keep reading as we cover the top makes and models prone to code P0011 instances. These year-by-year details look at low, moderate, or high occurrences and are based on a broad spectrum of model years, from 2000 through 2023, and vehicles with installed FIXD sensors.  

What is Code P0011?

Diagnostic trouble code P0011 points to a problem with camshaft timing. Specifically, an intake camshaft on Bank 1 of the engine operates in an over-advanced or out-of-sync state compared to a predefined threshold. This situation can occur only in an engine that uses a variable valve timing (VVT) or variable camshaft timing (VCT) system. 

While robust in design, camshafts require precise timing to ensure smooth and efficient operation. Exact timing also impacts how the camshaft interacts with other internal engine components like the valves and pistons. A disruption in this synchronization can lead to these parts colliding, which results in severe engine damage and four- or five-figure repair bills. This is why it’s strongly advised not to drive a car with a P0011-related problem.

To learn more about this issue, read the in-depth review article, P0011 Engine Code | “A” Camshaft Position—Timing Over-Advanced (Bank 1). Discover the causes and symptoms of a P0011 code and determine what repairs can be handled as DIY projects.

Top Models for P0011 Codes 

Here’s a look at the makes and models most likely to have P0011 codes, according to FIXD sensor data. The absence of a model year ranking indicates no P0011 code was detected among the analyzed years, insufficient data, or the model wasn’t in production.