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2011 Infiniti G37 P0524 and P0011 Codes: Causes, Diagnostics, and Next Steps

Model: 2011 G37 Fault Code: P0011 Posted: 2021-05-10 15:08

My 2011 Infiniti G37 is currently displaying both P0524 and P0011 diagnostic trouble codes. I recently purchased the car and have been experiencing recurring issues including rough idling, severe engine jerking at low RPMs, a noticeable rattle during acceleration, reduced fuel efficiency, and intermittent starting problems. After initially replacing all spark plugs (without applying plug coating), the check engine light briefly turned off—but returned within about 1.5 weeks with symptoms worsening. At an auto shop, the car started successfully after being jumped, and the check engine light went off temporarily. However, the issue has since returned with full symptom recurrence. I'm now concerned that the root cause may not be limited to the variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid—despite multiple mechanics suggesting this as a likely fix. I've confirmed that the oil is clean and the oil filter has been replaced twice, including after an initial mistake with incorrect oil type. I also noticed that my tire pressure warning light comes on intermittently just before symptoms appear, and several interior lights flicker—possibly indicating an electrical short or wiring issue in the tail section. I'm currently seeing P0300 (random misfire) as a pending code alongside P0011. I replaced spark plugs without coating, and when removing the new ones, I found small white particles inside the plug wells—resembling confetti—but no visible debris on the old plugs' ends. I’ve been advised to check oil pressure using a mechanical gauge, as low oil pressure is a known cause of P0524. I have also considered replacing or cleaning the VVT solenoid, but I'm unsure whether this would resolve the issue or if it's simply a symptom of deeper engine wear. I’m seeking clear guidance: What should I prioritize next? Is there a way to verify whether the problem lies with the VVT solenoid itself or its wiring? Can cleaning the solenoid help, and if so, how is this done? Are internal engine components (like bearings or oil pump) potentially worn, given the recurring symptoms? I’m frustrated by ongoing diagnostic guesses—can anyone confirm whether P0524/P0011 are typically linked to VVT issues or could they point to something more fundamental like oil pressure failure or mechanical wear?

Related fault codes
P0011P0524
Comments (4)
Anonymous 2021-05-10 15:10

Additional observation: The car has fresh, clean engine oil and a replaced filter. I’ve also noticed that the tire pressure warning light activates intermittently just before symptoms appear. Additionally, several interior lights—particularly the rear tail light—flicker unpredictably, which may suggest an electrical short or wiring fault in the vehicle’s lighting system.

Anonymous 2021-05-10 16:36

Start by verifying engine oil pressure using a mechanical gauge to rule out low oil pressure as a root cause. Possible causes of P0524 include: low oil level, incorrect oil viscosity, contaminated oil (due to fuel or coolant), faulty oil pressure sensor, electrical short in the sensor circuit, or internal engine wear such as worn bearings or a failing oil pump. For P0011, potential causes include incorrect camshaft timing, wiring faults in the intake valve control solenoid system, continuous oil flow to the VCT piston chamber, or a failed VVT solenoid (stuck open).

Anonymous 2021-05-10 20:48

I'm now seeing P0300 as a pending code. When I replaced the spark plugs without coating, I found small white particles inside the new plug wells—similar to confetti—but no visible debris on the old plugs when removed. The car has been driven for about two months; after resetting the check engine light, it remained off for nearly two weeks before returning. Since then, symptoms have returned consistently. I haven’t yet installed a used oil pressure switch (as advised by a mechanic), but I’m wondering if that’s a valid diagnostic step or whether it's unrelated to the current issues. Is it safe to rule out timing chain or transmission problems given this history? Would cleaning the VVT solenoid be worth trying, and if so, what is the proper procedure?

Anonymous 2021-05-12 08:26

First step: Verify engine oil pressure with a mechanical gauge. This is critical for diagnosing P0524, as low oil pressure can trigger the code and lead to severe engine damage if unaddressed.