P0018 on Saturn: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 2 Sensor A
2 Saturn models · 2 documented issues · 2 critical · $1,500-$3,500 repair
P0018 on Saturn by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The 3.6L 'High Feature' V6 used in the redesigned 2008-2010 Vue (and shared with Aura/Outlook/Acadia/CTS) is prone to timing chain stretch, often aggravated by extended oil-change intervals. As the chains and plastic guides wear, cam/crank timing drifts out of correlation, triggering the check-engine light, rough running, and a rattle on cold start. GM issued Information Bulletin 12-06-01-009F covering timing chain kit and guide replacement for DTCs P0008/P0009/P0016/P0017/P0018/P0019.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Rattle or rattling on cold start
- Rough idle / engine running rough
- Reduced power
- Timing correlation fault codes
How to Fix
Verify oil level and condition first; severely stretched chains require replacing the timing chains, tensioners, and guides as a complete set (often all three chains on this engine). Owners can reduce risk by using the correct dexos1-spec oil and changing it at conservative (e.g., ~5,000-mile) intervals rather than relying on the oil-life monitor's longer recommendations.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Cloyes 9-0753S complete three-chain timing set with sprockets
Variable-valve-timing sprockets/components, seals, gaskets, fluids and required one-time fasteners are not included; inspect and VIN-confirm those separately.
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Sources for this issue (3)
The early GM 3.6L high-feature V6 (used in Aura XR) is prone to premature timing chain stretch, sometimes appearing as early as 50,000-100,000 miles. As the chains wear, camshaft-to-crankshaft timing drifts out of spec, setting correlation codes and eventually causing rough running, reduced power, and potential engine damage if ignored. A cold-start rattle is a common early warning sign.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light with timing correlation codes
- Rattle on cold start
- Rough idle / misfire
- Reduced power
- Engine light flashing under load
How to Fix
Replace all three timing chains, tensioners, and guides (a major job). GM's timing-chain Special Coverage 11340 (10 years/120,000 miles) covered certain Outlook, Acadia, Enclave, Traverse and Cadillac models but does not list the Aura; GM bulletin 12-06-01-009E gives the timing chain kits for 2007-2009 Aura LY7 engines. Use the correct oil and change intervals to slow wear.
Sources for this issue (5)
- GM Bulletin 12-06-01-009E - High Feature V6 Timing Chain Kits, DTCs P0008/P0009/P0016-P0019 (2007-2009 Saturn AURA LY7)tsb
- GM Bulletin 11340C - Special Coverage Adjustment, Timing Chain Weartsb
- P0019 on 2007-2009 Saturn Aura 3.6L: Stretched Timing Chain Causes and Fixesforum
- Aura 3.6 with code P0017 - Saturn Enthusiasts Forumsforum
- P0017 Saturn Code Meaning, Causes, Symptoms & Tech Notesarticle
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 Saturn?
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 Saturn it is documented across 2 models: Vue, Aura.
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 Saturn?
Published repair estimates on Saturn range from $1,500 to $3,500 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.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.