Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1, Sensor B)
In short
P0017 means the engine computer detected that the crankshaft and the Bank 1 exhaust camshaft (Sensor B) are out of their expected alignment. In the real world this is most often caused by a stretched or worn timing chain (or a chain that has jumped a tooth), but a sticking variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid, low or dirty oil, or a failing cam sensor can trigger it too. The PCM sets the code when the cam timing drifts beyond a set number of degrees relative to crankshaft position.
Is it safe to drive with P0017?
It is generally safe to drive a short distance, but you should not ignore it. A stretched timing chain or jumped timing can worsen quickly and, in interference engines, a chain that slips far enough can cause valves to contact pistons and ruin the engine. If you notice a rattle on startup, rough running, or loss of power, stop driving and have it diagnosed.
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light on, sometimes flashing under load
- Rattling or knocking noise from the front of the engine, especially on cold start
- Rough idle or engine hesitation
- Reduced power and sluggish acceleration
- Hard starting or extended cranking
- Reduced fuel economy and occasional stalling
Common causes (most → least likely)
How to diagnose it (before buying parts)
- 1 Scan and record all stored and pending codes with freeze-frame data; note whether other timing or cam/crank codes are present alongside P0017.
- 2 Check engine oil level and condition first — top off or change oil with the correct viscosity, then clear the code and see if it returns, since low or sludgy oil commonly causes this.
- 3 Inspect the cam and crank sensor connectors and wiring for corrosion, damage, or loose pins, and verify sensor resistance/signal against spec.
- 4 Use a scan tool to view live cam-timing/VVT actual-vs-commanded data and listen for a startup chain rattle to gauge whether the chain has stretched.
- 5 Test or swap the Bank 1 VVT/oil control solenoid (check it actuates and is not clogged) before condemning the timing chain or phaser.
Repair options & cost
By manufacturer
EcoBoost and modular V8/V6 engines are known for timing chain stretch and VCT solenoid issues that set P0016/P0017, often with a cold-start rattle. Check solenoids and oil maintenance history first.
Several Ecotec and V6/V8 engines suffer from timing chain wear and VVT actuator/solenoid problems that commonly trigger correlation codes, especially with extended oil-change intervals.
Theta and Gamma engines can set correlation codes from oil control valve sticking or oil-flow problems; verify oil condition and OCV operation before deeper repairs.
VANOS-equipped engines (notably some N20/N47-era designs) are prone to timing chain and guide wear that sets cam/crank correlation codes; a startup rattle is a strong indicator.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with a P0017 code?
You can drive briefly, but you should not delay the repair. If the cause is a stretched timing chain, it can jump further and, on an interference engine, cause serious internal damage. Avoid hard acceleration and get it diagnosed promptly.
Will an oil change fix P0017?
Sometimes. Low, dirty, or wrong-viscosity oil restricts the VVT system and can trigger P0017. An oil and filter change with the correct grade is a cheap first step and occasionally clears the code, but if a chain is stretched it will return.
What is the difference between P0016 and P0017?
Both are crank/cam correlation codes. P0016 refers to Bank 1 Sensor A (typically the intake cam), while P0017 refers to Bank 1 Sensor B (typically the exhaust cam). The causes and diagnosis are very similar.
How much does it cost to fix P0017?
It depends on the cause. A solenoid or sensor repair often runs about 150 to 450 dollars at a shop, while a full timing chain job commonly runs 900 to 2,500 dollars depending on the engine and labor.