Code P0011

Good afternoon,

This codes usually comes up when the oil is dirty and does not allow the timing to be adjusted on the cams.

Usually, the oil system needs to be flushed of all dirt and debris. If that does not work, the actuator may have to be replaced.

Roy

We have changed the oil and the actuator has been replaced, but check engine light turned on again.

Did you flush the system?

You need to get some seafoam. Add that to the oil and let it run for about one hour. Then drain the oil and filter again and add new oil.

Then the actuator should be replaced. Otherwise, the debris goes back into the new actuator and the same results.

If there is too much debris in the oil passages from sludge, then you will need a shop to force flush the system as a last chance to clear the debris.

Roy

Roy, the system has been flushed and oil changed. I ran it for a bit and light has turned off. Hopefully all stays that way. Thank you so much for your help.

You are welcome.

Always glad to help.

Roy

What do you mean by "flush the system"?

That is when you have a shop drain the oil and remove the filter. They attach a hose to where the oil filter was and the drain plug in the oil pan. The machine pressurizes the passages in the engine and gets out all the dirt and debris in the passages. That's what causes the code. The dirt.

Additives to the oil have no effect on cleaning the system.

Roy

I know how to change the oil and oil filter but for this particular case (p0011) should I have a mechanic drain the oil?

Yes, and they need the machine to do this flush. Do not let them tell you they are going to use seafoam. That has little or no effect.

They need to have a flushing machine.

Roy

What is this particular flushing called if I go to a mechanic?

The one we have is called a Bilstein machine for engine oil flushing.

Roy

Okay.

so I'll get the engine oil flushed, oil and filter changed then the actuator replaced.
thanks

Sounds like a plan.

Keep us updated.

Roy

I got the engine oil flushed, oil and oil filter changed and replaced the camshaft position sensor (actuator) replaced and the code p0011 is still there.

How did they flush the system?

If they did it correctly, then you replace the actuator. Dirt and debris may be still in the actuator.

Roy

I have the same problem with my Chevrolet Sonic 2017. Does anybody have an estimate on how much I'd be paying if I had a place like Carx fix it? More than $600.00?

Good morning,

Yes, it would be higher. I would allow about $800.00 to $1,000.00 depending on what they find.

Roy