Variable Valve Lift System Performance Bank 2
2016-2016 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6 EcoBoost
The 2016 Ford Explorer is equipped with a 3.5L V6 turbocharged gasoline engine. Below you'll find detailed p3018 diagnostic code information including labor time estimates, cost ranges, and technician notes specific to this engine configuration.
Description
The variable valve lift system on Bank 2 is not meeting performance expectations.
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light
- Uneven power between banks
- Engine vibration at certain RPMs
- Reduced high-RPM power
- Valve train noise Bank 2
Common Causes
- Worn valve lift mechanism Bank 2
- Oil flow restriction Bank 2
- Control solenoid failure
- Mechanical wear in rocker assembly
- Clogged oil passage
Diagnostic Steps
- Monitor Bank 2 valve lift PID
- Check oil pressure at Bank 2 actuator
- Command lift change and verify Bank 2 response
- Compare Bank 1 vs Bank 2 lift transition timing
- Inspect oil passages Bank 2
Repair Notes
Replace Bank 2 variable valve lift mechanism.
Related Codes
Other Powertrain Codes
- P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
- P0002Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0003Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
- P0004Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
- P0010Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0011Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0012Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
- P0013Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0014Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0015Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
P3018 on Other Vehicles
Common Questions
What does code P3018 mean on a 2016-2016 Ford Explorer?
P3018 stands for "Variable Valve Lift System Performance Bank 2". The variable valve lift system on Bank 2 is not meeting performance expectations.
What are the symptoms of P3018 on a Ford Explorer?
Common symptoms of P3018 include: Check Engine Light, Uneven power between banks, Engine vibration at certain RPMs, Reduced high-RPM power, Valve train noise Bank 2.
What causes P3018 on a 2016-2016 Ford Explorer?
Common causes of P3018 include: Worn valve lift mechanism Bank 2, Oil flow restriction Bank 2, Control solenoid failure, Mechanical wear in rocker assembly, Clogged oil passage.
Last updated: March 2026
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