P0018 on Land Rover: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor A
1 Land Rover model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $4,000-$8,000 repair
P0018 on Land Rover by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Jaguar/Land Rover AJ-V8 5.0L engine suffers from timing chain tensioner failures. The hydraulic tensioners lose oil pressure on cold starts, allowing the timing chains to slap against the guides. Over time the guides wear and the chain stretches, leading to jumped timing and potential catastrophic engine damage. This is the single most expensive common failure on these engines.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling or whining noise on cold start lasting 2-10 seconds
- Check engine light with camshaft timing codes
- Rough idle after cold start
- Metallic rattling from front of engine
- Progressive worsening of startup rattle over weeks
How to Fix
Replace all four timing chain tensioners, timing chains, and chain guides. This is a major job requiring engine removal or substantial front-end disassembly. Use updated JLR tensioners (part number LR051013 superseded). Budget 20-30 hours labor at an independent specialist.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- DA3416 AJ133 timing-chain kitOEMDA3416.G
Renew the matched timing chains, guides, tensioners and sprockets after AJ133 timing-system failure is confirmed Fitment/availability: Range Rover L322 2010-2012 and L405 AJ133 5.0 V8 branches covered by the listed kit; confirm VIN/engin…
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
- WarningDo NOT ignore cold start rattle. Once the chain jumps timing, the engine is destroyed. Budget $5,000-$8,000 at a specialist. Dealer quotes of $12,000+ are common.
P0018 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 P0018 mean on a Land Rover?
P0018 stands for "Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor A." This code means the computer detected that the crankshaft and the Bank 2 'A' (typically intake) camshaft are out of their expected timing relationship. The computer compares the crankshaft and camshaft position sensor signals; they should stay in a fixed correlation as the engine turns. When the Bank 2 camshaft is too far off from the crankshaft, P0018 sets, indicating the valve timing on that bank is misaligned. This can cause rough running, reduced power, hard starting, or a no-start, and in some cases signals timing chain or phaser trouble that warrants prompt attention. On Land Rover it is documented across 1 model: Range Rover.
What are the most common causes of P0018?
The most common causes of P0018 are: Stretched, worn, or jumped timing chain (Bank 2), Worn or broken timing chain guides/tensioner, Stuck variable valve timing solenoid or phaser, Low or dirty engine oil affecting the phaser, Faulty crankshaft or camshaft position sensor, Damaged reluctor/tone ring, Incorrect timing from prior service, Wiring or connector fault at a cam/crank sensor. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0018 on a Land Rover?
Published repair estimates on Land Rover range from $4,000 to $8,000 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 P0018 on a different make?
View P0018 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.