2009 BMW P0011: What It Means & Is It Safe to Drive?
P0011 on the 2009 BMW: Camshaft Position A – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1). Here's what it means, what usually causes it, what repairs typically cost, and whether it's safe to keep driving.
What this code means
The intake camshaft on bank 1 is more advanced than the PCM commanded, or the VVT system isn't responding as expected. Often caused by low/dirty oil or a faulty oil control valve.
Common causes on the 2009 BMW
- Low or dirty engine oil (most common—change oil first)
- Failed or sludged oil control valve (OCV/VVT solenoid)
- Stretched or worn timing chain
- Stuck VVT actuator (cam phaser)
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light
- Rough idle or rattling on cold startup
- Poor fuel economy
- Reduced power
Typical fixes
- Oil change with correct viscosity oil (often resolves it)
- Clean or replace oil control valve
- Replace timing chain if stretched
- Replace cam phaser if faulty
Repair cost range
For a 2009 BMW, repairs for P0011 typically fall between $50 and $1200, depending on the root cause and labor rates in your area.
Known issues on BMW
BMW N52 and N54 engines flag P0011 (or BMW-specific VANOS codes) from vanos solenoid wear or oil sludge. Use only BMW-approved LL-01 full synthetic oil and replace the vanos solenoid filters if the code returns after an oil change.
Most commonly affected models