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P0017 on Volkswagen: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost

Quick Answer

Not safe to drive

P0017 on a Volkswagen 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.

Severity
High · Ignition
Typical repair cost, all makes
€60-€5500

Connect a standard OBD2 adapter (Bluetooth LE on iPhone) to your Volkswagen and Skanyx tells you what P0017 means on that engine, whether it is safe to keep driving, and what the fix should cost. Free on iPhone and Android.

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What does P0017 mean on a Volkswagen?

The Quick Answer above is the generic definition. What follows is the model-specific detail for the Volkswagen models that log P0017.

Volkswagen Touareg

2005-2024

The Touareg 3.0 TFSI shares the EA837 V6 with the Audi A6 and has the same camshaft adjuster failure pattern. The 3.0 TDI V6 (CASA, CASB engines) has a well-documented timing chain stretch issue that can set P0017 alongside P0016. Repair on either engine requires significant disassembly and 1500 to 3000 EUR labour at a specialist.

What causes P0017 on a Volkswagen?

Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P0017 page, these are the patterns noted for Volkswagen models:

  • 3.0 TDI V6 timing chain stretch (CASA/CASB engines)

    : Volkswagen Touareg

  • 3.0 TFSI camshaft adjuster failure

    : Volkswagen Touareg

How to diagnose P0017 on a Volkswagen with OBD2

  1. Check engine oil level and condition. Low or contaminated oil is one of the most common causes of P0017. 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. Monitor live cam phasing data on bank 1 with manufacturer-level software (actual and target cam angles are not part of the standard OBD2 data set; a generic reader shows the code, freeze frame and fuel trims). Compare actual versus commanded exhaust camshaft angle. 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

How much does P0017 cost to fix on a Volkswagen? (EUR)

Estimated repair costs for P0017 in EUR, compiled across makes. Expect Volkswagen parts and labour towards the upper end of each range.

Repair Parts Cost Labor Cost Total Estimate DIY Difficulty
Oil change with correct spec oil and clear code €40–€100 €20–€50 €60–€150 Easy
Replace exhaust VVT solenoid €80–€300 €60–€150 €140–€450 Moderate
Replace timing chain kit (chain, guides, tensioner) €800–€3000 €600–€2500 €1400–€5500 Professional

Prices estimated as of October 2026. Costs vary by region, vehicle, and shop.

These codes are often seen alongside P0017 or point to related issues, on any make:

Looking for the full P0017 reference (all makes, full diagnosis flow, complete repair cost matrix)? See the main P0017 guide

Diagnose P0017 on your Volkswagen

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