P0017 OBD-II Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor B Trouble Code

The P0017 code is an OBD-II trouble code that stands for “Crankshaft Position – Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor B)” and indicates that the signals from the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors for the Bank 1 exhaust camshaft do not correlate.

In this article, I will be talking about the P0017 trouble code, its symptoms, causes, and how to fix it.

What Does The P0017 Code Mean?

The P0017 trouble code indicates that the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors are misaligned. Bank 1 indicates that the problem occurs on the engine side with cylinder 1, whereas Bank B indicates that the problem occurs on the exhaust camshaft side. Because the code is generic, it appears with multiple manufacturers.

The camshaft opens and closes valves, allowing air and fuel to enter the cylinders. This is followed by a spark, which causes the mixture to burn and drive the cylinders. The crankshaft converts the force of the cylinders into a circular motion that is used to rotate the wheels.

To control the spark, fuel delivery, and timing, the crankshaft position sensor (CKP sensor) and the cam position sensor (CMP sensor) must work in tandem. When they don’t, the engine won’t start, resulting in the P0017 trouble code.

P0017 is a common issue with the following vehicle models: Chevrolet (particularly a Chevy Colorado), GMC, Cadillac, Buick, and Mercedes Benz.

Which Models Are Affected By The P0017 Code

What Are The Possible Causes of the P0017 Code?

The P0017 trouble code is caused when the vehicle’s computer detects that the camshaft and crankshaft sensors on bank 1 are not in sync.

There are several causes of the P0017 trouble code, the majority of which involve the timing chain or belt.

Here are the most possible causes of the P0017 trouble code:

• The timing belt or timing chain is stretched or damaged.
• The camshaft or crankshaft reluctor wheel is faulty.
• The oil level is low
• The engine oil has become contaminated or aerated.
• Defective mechanical oil system.
• Defective variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid (oil control valve).
• Faulty powertrain control module (PCM) (check for any additional update)
• The signals from the camshaft or crankshaft sensors are erratic.
• The belt or distribution chain has become worn.
• Crank sensor failure.
• Faulty variable valve timing (VVT) actuator (phaser)
• Cam sensor failure.
• Faulty wiring or connections.
• Timing chain/belt tensioners or guides are damaged.

What Are The Common Symptoms of The P0017 Code?

Here are the most common symptoms of the P0017 trouble code:

• The check engine light is showing on.
• The engine may idle normally but produce less power.
• The engine may behave erratically or accelerate harshly.
• Fuel mileage may be reduced if the camshafts are not in optimal positions.

Is It Safe To Drive With a P0017 Code?

No, it is not safe to drive with the P0117 trouble code because it can cause several drivability issues such as poor acceleration, low engine performance, and no-start condition.

Because this code can be caused by a variety of issues, including a mistimed engine, it can cause severe engine damage and necessitate costly repairs.

Furthermore, if you don’t fix the P0017 trouble code promptly, carbon deposits can form on the valves and pistons, causing your car’s spark plugs to be damaged. It may also cause engine misfiring.

How To Diagnose The P0017 Code

Here is how to diagnose the P0017 trouble code:

1. Use the OBD scanner the clear the faults in the powertrain control module (PCM). Examine the camshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensors for any other problems.
2. Take the car for a test drive to see if the codes return.
3. Check the wiring and connectors visually. If possible, inspect the timing belt/chain for any obvious problems.
4. Examine the freeze-frame data to see the conditions at the time the code was set. Using a compatible OBD-II scanner, test the operation of the oil control valve/Variable valve timing solenoid and the crankshaft/CMP sensor signals.
5. Check the alignment of the camshaft and crankshaft. If the timing tensioner and chain/belt are not aligned, you must inspect them further.

Most Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0017 Code

The most common mistakes when diagnosing the P0017 trouble code are:

• Failure to inspect the trouble code and the problem before making a diagnosis.
• Failure to follow the diagnostic steps can result in a misdiagnosis.
• Inability to visually inspect wiring and connection issues before replacing them.
• Failure to use appropriate tools to inspect faulty components.

How Much Does It Cost To Repair P0017 Code?

The cost of P0017 repair varies depending on the type of vehicle you own and where you live. Here are some ballpark figures for potential parts and labor costs.

• The replacement of the timing belt/chain is from $900 to $1600.
• The replacement of the CMP actuator solenoid is from $200 to $500.
• Repairing the wiring is from $50 to $500.
• The timing chain/belt tensioner replacement is from $250 to $1500.
• The replacement of the crankshaft/ camshaft tone ring is from $100 to $600.
• The replacement of the crank/cam sensor is from $150 to $450.

What Repairs Can Fix The P0017 Code?

Repairs that can fix the P0017 trouble code are:

• Reset the engine fault codes and confirm that the issue is still occurring.
• Change the camshaft position sensor on a failed camshaft bank.
• Fix or change the wiring connection to the camshaft sensor or the oil control valve (OCV).
• Replace the Engine Control Module or Engine Control Unit
• Change the timing gears, chains, and guides for both engine banks.
• Clean the engine carbon from the pistons and valve after the core repairs.

How To Fix The P0017 Code

Here are how to fix the P0017 trouble code:

• Reset the engine codes and check to see if the problem still exists.
• The faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) must be replaced (PCM).
• Replacing a failed camshaft bank’s camshaft position sensor (CMP sensor).
• Repairing or replacing the camshaft sensor or oil control valve wiring connection.
• Changing the timing chain (timing belt), timing gears, and timing guides for both engine banks.
• Once the code is fixed, clean the engine carbon from pistons and valves.
• Fix and change a lousy oil control valve (OCV), camshaft sensor, or crankshaft position sensor wiring.

In Conclusion

Your vehicle’s check engine light is important to its overall functionality. Please do not ignore this light whenever it appears, as it may indicate a serious problem with the engine components.

P0017 is the diagnostic trouble code for crankshaft and camshaft synchronization. As a result, once this code is registered, it is essential to diagnose and address the issue.

This article has outlined the causes, symptoms, and diagnostic errors, and how to diagnose and correct them. If you are unsure about the repair, consult your mechanic for a professional solution.