P0011 on 2023-2024 Honda Civic Type R: VTC System Malfunction Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2023-2024 Honda CIVIC TYPE R

The 2023-2024 (FL5 generation) Civic Type R is specifically called out in Honda Technical Service Bulletin #A24-070 🎬 Watch: Understanding the P0011 code on 2022+ Civics for this exact code. Initially, Honda acknowledged they were investigating complaints of P0011 accompanied by a rough idle under TSB #ATI&01022024904. The investigation concluded that a software flaw in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) was the cause. The official fix is now a software update, not a hardware replacement, making this a very platform-specific issue requiring a dealer visit.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Generation note: The K20C1 engine has been used in the Civic Type R since the 2015 FK2 model. While the P0011 code can occur on any vehicle with VVT, the specific software-related cause and TSB #A24-070 are unique to the 2023-2024 FL5 generation and its platform mate, the 2024 Acura Integra Type S.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) is on
• Rough or erratic engine idle, especially on cold start.
• Reduced engine power and acceleration
• Decreased fuel economy
• Engine may be hard to start or stall.
• Auto Rev-Matching system may be disabled.

Most Likely Causes

1. PGM-FI Software Calibration Issue Very High Probability Honda TSB #A24-070 explicitly states the cause is that the VTC system may not be able to control timing within the target range during warm-up. The corrective action is a software update, confirming a flaw in the PCM's control logic. Acura issued a similar TSB (#24-026) for the Integra Type S, which shares the same engine, citing 'lack of oil control by the PCM causes the VTC to overshoot its target'.
   How to confirm: This can only be confirmed by a Honda/Acura dealer. They will check the vehicle's current software version (Program ID) against the updated version specified in the TSB.
   Typical fix: Update the PGM-FI software, then perform a CMP (camshaft position) learn and an IN-VTC learn procedure. This is a warranty repair.
   Est. part cost: $0 (Warranty)
2. Low or Dirty Engine Oil 🟡 Medium Probability The VTC system is hydraulic and relies on clean engine oil at the correct pressure. While the primary cause for the FL5 is software, incorrect oil level or viscosity can still trigger this code on any VVT-equipped engine. The first step in Honda's own TSB is to verify the oil level is correct before proceeding with the software update.
   How to confirm: Check the engine oil dipstick for proper level and inspect the oil's condition. If it is dark, gritty, or past its service interval, it needs to be changed.
   Typical fix: Perform an oil and filter change using the correct viscosity oil (0W-20) 🎬 See this DIY oil change and lifting guide for the FL5 specified for the K20C1 engine.
   Est. part cost: $50-$100
3. Faulty VTC Solenoid (Oil Control Valve) ⚪ Low Probability Prior to the software fix being identified, this was a primary suspect. Forum discussions show dealers were initially instructed not to replace any parts while Honda investigated. A solenoid failure is still possible but is not the widespread issue affecting these models.
   How to confirm: A technician can use a scan tool to command the solenoid on/off while monitoring camshaft angle data. The solenoid can also be removed and bench-tested for operation or resistance.
   Typical fix: Replace the VTC solenoid for the intake camshaft. This is now considered an unlikely fix for this specific platform unless the software update fails to resolve the issue.
   Est. part cost: $40-$120

Rare But Worth Checking

• Stretched Timing Chain or Failed Tensioner: While very unlikely on a new vehicle, a defect in the timing chain or tensioner could cause slack and lead to incorrect camshaft timing. There is at least one owner report of a catastrophic engine failure on a 2024 Type R due to a loose valve keeper throwing off timing, which is an extreme and rare factory defect.
• Failed VTC Actuator (Cam Phaser): The VTC actuator is the mechanical gear on the camshaft that actually does the rotating. It can fail internally, but this is less common than a solenoid failure and more expensive to repair.
• Clogged Oil Passages or VTC Strainer: Sludge from infrequent oil changes or engine debris can block the small oil passages or the VTC solenoid strainer, preventing proper operation. This is highly improbable on a new vehicle but a possibility.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Verify the engine oil level is correct and the oil is clean. If low, top it off. If in doubt, perform an oil and filter change with 0W-20 oil.
2. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0011 is the only code present. Note the freeze frame data.
3. Contact a Honda dealership and reference TSB #A24-070. The dealer will verify the vehicle's eligibility and check its current software Program ID.
4. If the software is outdated, the dealer will perform the PGM-FI software update as the primary corrective action.
5. Following the update, the dealer must perform the 'CMP Learn' and 'Clear and Complete IN-VTC Learn Procedure' as mandated by the service bulletin.
6. If the code returns after the software update, then further diagnosis of the VTC solenoid, wiring, and mechanical VTC components would be necessary.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• PGM-FI Software Update (OEM #37805-66V-A07 (or later)) — This is the official corrective action from Honda per TSB #A24-070 to fix the logic flaw causing the VTC system to overshoot its target.
  Trusted brands: Honda (Genuine OEM)
  OEM price range: $0
  Aftermarket price range: N/A
• Engine Oil and Filter — The VTC system is entirely dependent on clean oil at the proper pressure. An oil check is the first step in the TSB, and an oil change is a fundamental prerequisite if the level or condition is suspect.
  Trusted brands: Honda (Genuine OEM), Mobil 1, Castrol
  OEM price range: $70-$100
  Aftermarket price range: $50-$80

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• A24-070: 'MIL Is On With DTC P0011'. States that during warm-up, the VTC system may not control timing within its target. The fix is to check oil, update PGM-FI software, and perform relearn procedures.
• ATI&01022024904: Details a search by Honda for specific 2023 Civic Type Rs with P0011 and a rough idle for further investigation. This is now superseded by the fix in TSB A24-070.
• Acura TSB 24-026: A parallel TSB for the 2024 Acura Integra Type S with the same engine and P0011 code, also prescribing a software update as the fix.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Honda TSB #A24-070 (April 2024) is the definitive document, superseding earlier investigations. It confirms a software update is the fix for P0011 on 2023-24 Type R models.
• Owner experiences on forums like CivicXI.com and IntegraForums.com corroborate the TSB. Many users reported dealers initially clearing the code, but the issue would return until the software fix was applied.
• The issue often presents on a cold start or during normal, non-spirited driving.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• VTC Solenoid (Spool Valve) Resistance — expected: 14 - 30 Ohms (based on other Honda VTEC solenoids).. Failure: A reading of infinite resistance (OL) indicates an open coil; a very low reading (near 0 Ohms) indicates a shorted coil.
• VTC Solenoid Connector Voltage — expected: Approximately 12V (battery voltage) on one of the two pins.. Failure: No voltage indicates a wiring or power supply issue upstream of the solenoid.
• Engine Coolant Temperature (for IN-VTC Learn Procedure) — expected: Engine must be cooled to below 94°F (34°C).. Failure: Attempting the learn procedure above this temperature may result in failure.

Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking

• Software Program ID: While not a traditional shadow code, the PGM-FI software's Program ID is a hidden value that determines if the vehicle is susceptible to the P0011 fault. TSB A25-023, which addresses a different DTC, notes that if a vehicle's Program ID is older than 37805-66V-A04, it may be affected by the P0011 issue described in TSB A24-070. The corrected software is version 37805-66V-A07 or later. (see via This can only be read using the Honda Diagnostic System (i-HDS) at a dealership.)

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Honda i-HDS: Clear and Complete IN-VTC Learn Procedure — This multi-step procedure is mandatory after performing the PGM-FI software update per TSB A24-070 to resolve the P0011 code. It ensures the VTC system's learned baseline is correct for the new software logic.
• Honda i-HDS: CMP Learn — This function must be performed after the software update and before the IN-VTC learn. It is accessed via the PGM-FI -> Adjustment -> CMP Learning menu.
• Honda i-HDS: IN-VTC Learning Value Clear — This is a specific step within the overall relearn procedure, performed after the CMP learn and after cooling the engine. It is found under PGM-FI -> Adjustment -> IN-VTC Learning Value Clear.
• Honda i-HDS: VTC Test — In the PGM-FI Data List, a technician can command the VTC solenoid on and off to observe the change in camshaft angle, verifying the mechanical and hydraulic function of the system if a hardware fault is suspected after the software update.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Engine Harness Ground (Thermostat) — A ground wire from the main engine wiring harness is typically bolted to the thermostat housing on Honda K-series engines.. A poor ground at this location can affect sensor readings and solenoid operation controlled by the ECU, as it provides a ground reference for the harness.
• Valve Cover Ground — A ground strap often connects from a stud on the valve cover directly to the chassis or radiator support.. Ensures the cylinder head and its attached sensors (like the Camshaft Position Sensor) have a solid ground path to the chassis.
• Transmission to Chassis Ground — A primary ground cable runs from a mounting bolt on the transmission case to a point on the vehicle's frame rail/chassis.. This is a main ground path for the entire powertrain. A loose or corroded connection here can cause a wide range of electrical issues, including erratic ECU behavior.
• VTC Solenoid ECU Pin (Representative) — On a similar Honda ECU (P/N 37820-5FA-Z52), the VTEC Solenoid signal is located at Connector B, Pin 7.. For advanced diagnosis, a technician would test for continuity from the solenoid connector back to the corresponding pin on the FL5's ECU to rule out a wiring break. While the exact pin may differ on the FL5, this provides a likely location.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• CivicXI.com & IntegraForums.com (Aggregated Owner Experience) (2023-2024 Honda Civic Type R / Acura Integra Type S) — Check engine light on with P0011, often accompanied by a rough idle on startup and disabled rev-matching system.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Clearing the code with an OBD-II scanner (code would return, often within a few drive cycles)., Performing an oil change (while good practice, it did not resolve the underlying software issue)., Initial dealer visits where technicians were awaiting instructions from Honda and would only clear the code.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The issue was definitively resolved by having a Honda/Acura dealer apply the PGM-FI software update as specified in TSB A24-070 (for Civic) or TSB 24-026 (for Integra). This is a warranty repair.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 37805-66V-A04 (and prior) → 37805-66V-A07 (or later) — The original PGM-FI software had a logic flaw that could cause the VTC system to overshoot its target during engine warm-up, triggering DTC P0011. The updated software corrects this control logic.
  Heads up: Vehicles with software versions prior to 37805-66V-A04 are known to be affected by the P0011 issue. The update to version A07 or later is the required fix.
• N/A → 15810-RPY-G01 — This is the confirmed OEM part number for the VTC Spool Valve Assembly (solenoid) for the K20C engine used in the FK2, FK8, and FL5 Civic Type R.
  Heads up: This is for the intake camshaft ('A' Camshaft). The exhaust side uses a different solenoid. Do not confuse with part number 15831-RPY-G01, which is the VTC Oil Control Valve for the other camshaft.