What does fault code P0017 mean?
The P0017 fault code, applicable to all car manufacturers, means “Crankshaft Position – Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1, Sensor B)“.
Background Information: The crankshaft converts the up-and-down motion of the pistons into rotational motion. The camshaft controls the opening and closing of the valves. The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) continuously monitors the timing position of the variable camshaft, checking the relative position between the camshaft and crankshaft. If the relative position is misaligned by more than one gear tooth, this fault code will appear. Possible causes include a faulty camshaft position sensor or its circuitry, a faulty crankshaft position sensor or its circuitry, a faulty engine speed sensor, contaminated engine oil, or a stuck variable camshaft solenoid valve.
Symptoms of P0017 Error Code
- Engine instability
- Reduced power
- Increased fuel consumption
- Difficulty starting
- Engine may stall
- Engine misfire
Main Causes of P0017 Error Code
- Stretched or jumped timing chain
- Crankshaft or camshaft position sensor malfunction
- Variable Valve Timing (VVT) problems
- Oil contamination or low oil level
- Broken or stuck chain tensioner
P0017 Error Code in Different Vehicles
P0017 in Chevrolet: In many Chevrolet models (including Cruze and Malibu), the error is due to a stretched timing chain and problems with the VVT system. The phase shifter usually needs to be replaced.
P0017 in BMW: For BMWs, this error may indicate a VANOS system malfunction. Cleaning the phase control valve and changing the oil often helps.
P0017 in Hyundai: The cause of the error in Hyundai vehicles is usually oil contamination or a faulty VVT valve.
P0017 in Mercedes-Benz: In Mercedes-Benz engines, the error may be caused by worn camshaft gears or sensor malfunction.
P0017 in GMC: GMC models with large gasoline engines often experience timing chain wear and phase shifter sticking problems.
How to Diagnose P0017 Error Code?
Step 1: Read the fault codes with an OBD2 scanner
Step 2: Check the oil level and condition
Step 3: Check the timing chain components: tensioner, stabilizer
Step 4: Check the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors
Step 5: Check the VVT valve and electrical connections
Possible Causes and Diagnostic Methods
| Possible Cause | How to Check？ |
|---|---|
| Extended timing chain | Check phase by marking, measure chain stretch |
| Crankshaft or camshaft position sensor malfunction | Multimeter diagnosis, signal testing on oscilloscope |
| Problems in the VVT system | Check the operation of the VVT valve, confirm the presence of oil pressure |
| Contaminated or old engine oil | Check engine oil level and condition |
Tools needed: OBD diagnostic tool, multimeter, oscilloscope (preferred), timing cover removal tool kit, oil dipstick
How to fix P0017 error code? (Solutions to the problem)
Simple troubleshooting methods
- Engine oil and oil filter replacement
- Clean or replace VVT valve
- Reset error code after addressing the cause
In-depth diagnostic and repair solutions
- Replace stretched timing chain and tensioner
- Replace faulty position sensor
- Phase synchronization verification and restoration
- Check ECU for software faults
Troubleshooting by symptoms
| Symptom | Possible solution |
|---|---|
| The engine is misfiring | Check timing chain, replace camshaft sensor |
| Increased fuel consumption | VVT system diagnosis |
| Difficulty starting | Check crankshaft sensor |
| The error occurs periodically | Check sensor wiring and connectors |
P0017 Error Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to drive with error P0017?
It is not recommended, as the error may indicate a violation of valve timing, which can lead to serious engine damage in the long run.
What happens if I ignore error P0017?
Ignoring the error can lead to unstable engine operation, increased fuel consumption, and even complete failure of the timing chain or VVT system.
Can changing the oil eliminate P0017?
In some cases, yes. If the error is caused by dirty or poor-quality oil, changing the oil can help restore the valve timing system.
Do I need to replace the sensors when I get a P0017 error?
Only if diagnostics confirm they are faulty. The problem is often with mechanical components or oil contamination, not the sensors themselves.
The P0017 error reappeared after resetting – what should I do?
If the error reappears, a comprehensive diagnosis is needed: check the timing chain, sensors, VVT system, and oil condition. Simple resetting is not enough if there is a malfunction.
Related OBD2 Errors:
P0008 – Engine Position System Performance (Bank 1)
P0016 – Crankshaft Position – Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1, Sensor A)
Important! Ignoring error P0017 may lead to serious engine mechanical damage over time, including wear on valves and pistons due to disrupted phase synchronization. Do not delay diagnosis when error P0017 occurs. The sooner the cause is identified, the lower the risk of requiring major engine repairs in the future.