Mk5 Golf GTi fault code P0011

[bigkris06]

Hi guys, new to the forum, couldn’t find a new member intro but if I’ve missed it, please accept my apologies.
So, been working on my nephews 2006 Mk5 golf GTI.
It’s a 2.0tfsi with the BWA engine,
Back story.
Purchased as a non runner, as cam chain has snapped.
Had the head removed, fully stripped and rebuilt.
New head gasket, full timing kit with water pump, chain, tensioner and gear.
All reassembled. Once this was done, the car started and ran perfectly. No hesitation in running or starting, however we had the fault code P0011 no signal / communication - A Camshaft position (Bank1) : Timing over advanced or system performance.
As I wasn’t there I automatically assumed they had done the timing wrong as they didn’t use locking tools  So I told them to check the timing again. They insisted that it was 100% but being the doubting person I am, I stripped it down and checked it myself. It was 100% correct.
I have checked live data and it showed in block 91 Required 28 degrees and the actual flickers between 27.5 and 28 degrees so that’s all good. However in block 93 phase position bank 1 intake we are getting -10 degrees.
After some research we thought it was the VVT solenoid so we replaced that with a brand new one from Eurocarparts -  exactly the same so thinking it may be an issue with an aftermarket part, we tried a used one from a breaker car and the fault still remains.
I have also checked the wiring to the VVT solenoid and everything seems okay.
I am at a loss now where to look next. Does anyone have any ideas?
As stated, the car runs and drives really well, starts on the button and has power. It’s just the EML being eliminated and the fault code that’s stored, that will return almost straight away when cleared.
Many thanks in advance!

[wbutler00]

Hi there,

Have you manage to fix it? My Mk5 GTI (EA113, ~111k miles, mostly good history). Recently had a new timing chain kit at 110,100 miles (previous owner but gave me invoice). Then a new INA VVT solenoid and a repaired camshaft position sensor plug done by a VAG specialist (Volkstech, maltby) after a P0011 fault literally 40 miles ago. The car starts and pulls really well, but once fully warm the idle isn’t great – there’s a light tick and every so often a slight misfire at idle. After getting it from volkstech and driving it for about 25 minutes, the EML has come back with P0011 again. I reset it with my OBD and again after about 30 minutes its came back. I’m wondering how likely it is that a failing PCV/engine block breather could be contributing to the rough warm idle and helping trigger P0011, versus this still being a VVT/oil‑control or slightly out cam timing issue even after the chain job. I have no idea what to do.