P0011 on GMC: How to Diagnose & Fix
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 1)
2 GMC models · 3 documented issues · 2 critical · $40-$3,000 repair
P0011 on GMC by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
P0011 means the Bank 1 intake camshaft is timed more advanced than the ECM commanded — the phaser is stuck/biased advanced. On the Sierra 1500 5.3L/6.2L, the dominant cause is a VVT (camshaft actuator) solenoid whose internal screen has clogged with oil sludge or AFM debris, jamming the plunger so oil pressure to the phaser can't be modulated. GM acknowledges sticking/binding solenoids in PIs such as PIP5130K and PIP5855. Low or incorrect-viscosity oil is a very common trigger, so oil condition is always checked first. Because AFM lifter wear sheds metal into the oil, that debris circulates and clogs the solenoid screens — tying P0011 directly to the trucks' oil-consumption reputation. Drivers report rough running, and in worse cases stalling when slowing to a stop.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Rough idle / rough running
- Stalling when slowing to a stop
- Hard start
- Reduced power and fuel economy
How to Fix
Check engine oil level, viscosity, and condition first; an oil/filter change with correct-spec oil sometimes clears it. A proven test is swapping the Bank 1 intake solenoid with another solenoid — if the code follows to P0014/P0021, the solenoid is bad. Replace the VVT/cam actuator solenoid (roughly $40-$90 part). If the phaser or timing chain is worn, the timing set must be replaced.
Sources for this issue (1)
P0016 means the crankshaft and Bank 1 intake camshaft are out of sync beyond tolerance. On the 5.3L V8 Sierra 1500 this is a signature failure because of two engine-specific problems: (1) the timing chain stretches over time — accelerated by AFM lifter debris and extended oil-change intervals — retarding cam timing until correlation exceeds threshold; and (2) the cam actuator (VVT) solenoid or phaser sticks. The AFM V8s are also known for oil consumption, and low/dirty oil starves the phasers and clogs solenoid screens, which both triggers P0016 and worsens chain wear. This is more serious than the related P0011: a severely stretched chain can jump a tooth and cause piston-to-valve contact, so continued driving is risky.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Rough idle
- Rattle from front of engine on cold start
- Reduced power / poor fuel economy
- Hard start or stalling in severe cases
How to Fix
Check oil level/condition first — low or sludged oil alone can set it. Use a scan tool to read cam-retard/phaser data. If the timing chain is stretched (confirmed by measuring cam retard or valve-cover inspection), replace the timing chain, guides, tensioner, and cam phaser/sprocket; if only the VVT solenoid is stuck, replace it. Address AFM oil consumption to prevent recurrence.
What you need to diagnose it
The repair instructions explicitly call for reading stored codes. Use a scanner that can read the named code families before choosing a repair.The recommended scanner supports these code families; confirm your exact year, model and module coverage before buying.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
Read & clear engine (P) codes
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Reading and clearing the code is DIY work. Module replacement or reprogramming is not — most modules are VIN-programmed, so a new one does nothing until a shop codes it to your car. Check for an open recall or service bulletin before buying anything.
Sources for this issue (1)
The GM Ecotec 2.4L in the 2010-2014 Terrain has the same timing chain stretch and tensioner failure as the Equinox and Malibu. GM Special Coverage Adjustment SCA 12313C covers some vehicles. The 2010-2011 models are worst affected. Improperly hardened piston rings on 2010-2013 models cause excessive oil burning, which leads to low oil and accelerated timing chain wear. 2015+ models received revised internal components.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling noise on cold start
- Check engine light with P0016 or P0017
- Rough idle and misfires
- Excessive oil consumption (1 qt per 1000 miles)
- Loss of power and poor acceleration
- Engine stalling
How to Fix
Sources for this issue (1)
P0011 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0011 mean on a GMC?
P0011 stands for "Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 1)." P0011 means the engine computer detected that the intake camshaft timing on Bank 1 is more advanced than it should be — the variable valve timing system is either over-advancing the cam or not responding correctly to commands. Modern engines use a camshaft actuator, controlled by an oil-fed solenoid, to vary valve timing for better power and efficiency. When the actual cam position stays more advanced than the computer commands (or won't move back), this code is set. It generally indicates a fault in the variable valve timing system and can cause rough idle, reduced performance, or poor fuel economy. On GMC it is documented across 2 models: Sierra 1500, Terrain.
What are the most common causes of P0011?
The most common causes of P0011 are: Stuck or faulty camshaft (VVT) oil control valve / solenoid, Low or dirty engine oil restricting actuator movement, Clogged oil control valve screen or oil passages, Faulty camshaft phaser / actuator stuck advanced, Wrong oil viscosity or overdue oil change, Wiring or connector fault to the VVT solenoid, Faulty camshaft position sensor. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0011 on a GMC?
Published repair estimates on GMC range from $40 to $3,000 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0011 on a different make?
View P0011 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.