P0017: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor B)

P0017 means the crankshaft and the exhaust camshaft on bank 1 are not in the correct rotational relationship. The ECU compares the crankshaft position sensor signal to the bank 1 exhaust camshaft position sensor and finds the camshaft timing is off by more than the allowed tolerance. The root cause is typically a stretched timing chain, a failed VVT solenoid for the exhaust cam, or a worn cam phaser.

P0017 is a ignition-related diagnostic trouble code classified as high severity. When your vehicle's ECU detects this condition, it stores P0017 and illuminates the check engine light.

If your vehicle has triggered P0017, you may notice one or more of these symptoms:

• Check engine light illuminated
• Distinct rattle from the front of the engine at cold start (1 to 5 seconds)
• Rough idle, possible misfires
• Hard starting, particularly when warm
• Reduced power and hesitation under acceleration
• Increased fuel consumption

Here are the most common causes of P0017, ranked by how likely they are to be the culprit:

No - address this immediately. Drive only short distances to reach a workshop. P0017 specifically flags the exhaust camshaft on bank 1 being out of correlation with the crankshaft. On interference engines (most modern petrol designs), a skipped chain can bend valves and destroy the engine. If you hear a cold-start rattle, do not drive further.

Follow these steps to pinpoint the root cause of P0017:

1. Check engine oil level and condition. Low or contaminated oil causes 20 to 30 percent of P0017 cases. Top up or change with the manufacturer-specified viscosity and clear the code
2. Listen for a 1 to 5 second rattle from the front of the engine on cold start. This is the classic stretched timing chain symptom and confirms a mechanical fault rather than a sensor issue
3. Use a scan tool to monitor live data. Look at the actual versus commanded exhaust camshaft angle on bank 1. Deviations over 5 to 10 degrees confirm the timing is mechanically off
4. Test the exhaust VVT solenoid with a multimeter. Resistance is typically 6 to 13 ohms. Inspect the mesh screen on the solenoid for debris, which is a common quick fix
5. If the solenoid and oil are good, the timing chain is the next suspect. A workshop can confirm with a timing chain wear measurement or by removing the valve cover to inspect the chain slack

Repair costs for P0017 vary depending on the root cause and your vehicle. Here are typical estimates:

P0017 behaves differently depending on your vehicle. Select your car below for model-specific causes, known issues, and adjusted cost estimates:

These codes are often seen alongside P0017 or indicate related issues: