P0011 DTC Passat Camshaft Position Fault

P0011 code means that, “A” Camshaft Position Timing Over Advanced or System Performance Bank 1. The engine computer cannot adjust or correct the camshaft angle as desired. The variable Cam solenoid on this Passat has three bolts that hold it in place. I usually start on the bolt that is the hardest to get to access, which in this case, is the lower one. Then leave the easiest one for last some people do it the other way; I like to do the hard stuff up front.

I remove the bolts and then carefully pry the solenoid out of its place. It’s up against an o-ring, so it’s a little tight, but be gentle, and it will come right out of there. That’s what it looks like; that’s all there is to it. That little pin you see in the middle extends and retracts, to actuate the oil valve inside the cam gear.

The o ring that seals the solenoid is held in position by a groove machined on the inside lip of the head. All you need is a small pick tool to remove it from its place carefully. It is as simple as that, and a new o ring is installed.
I use a little oil to lubricate the front of this new solenoid so that when I’m pushing it in, it’s not going to catch on the dry O ring, possibly cutting or dislodging it from its place. Carefully wiggle it back and forth. Orient it, so it lines up with bolt holes and then carefully install the new bolts. I have new bolts as recommended by the manufacturer. Whenever I’m working on these cars, I keep it as oem as possible. The new bolts are designed with thread lock to prevent them coming loose due to vibration over time. Be careful not to drop a bolt because they will be hard to find in this very tight engine bay because they are so small, so don’t be in a rush. Remember slow is fast. After tightening all the bolts to manufacturer specifications, plug the solenoid back in, clear the fault codes, and test drive to confirm the repair.