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P0017 – Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor B (OBD2)

P0017 means "Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor B". Two signals that should agree with each other no longer match. The control unit cannot tell which one is wrong, so it stores a correlation fault for the camshaft/crankshaft position system.

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P0017 quick summary

Fault codeP0017
MeaningCrankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor B
SystemPowertrain (Engine & Transmission)
VehiclesGeneric OBD2
SeverityCritical
Can I drive?Not recommended. If the cause is a stretched chain or jumped belt, further driving can lead to the chain jumping and major engine damage. Have the timing checked first.
Repair cost€50 – €3,000

What camshaft and crankshaft correlation means

These codes mean the engine control unit sees the camshaft and crankshaft out of their correct relationship – the valve timing is not where it should be.

The engine control unit compares the camshaft sensor signal with the crankshaft sensor signal. On a healthy engine the camshaft trigger always appears at the same crankshaft angle (adjusted only by the variable valve timing). If the deviation exceeds a limit, it stores a correlation code for the affected bank and sensor (A = intake, B = exhaust camshaft on most engines).

The most serious cause is a stretched timing chain, worn chain guides or tensioner, or a timing belt that has jumped a tooth. Other causes are faulty camshaft adjusters (variable valve timing), wrong installation after a timing job, or simply a faulty sensor or reluctor ring. 'Engine position system performance' codes (P0008, P0009) are used by some manufacturers specifically for chain stretch.

Never ignore a correlation code on an engine with a known timing chain weakness. If the chain jumps further, the valves can hit the pistons and destroy the engine.

Bank 1 is the side of the engine that contains cylinder 1. In-line engines (three, four, five or six cylinders in a row) have only bank 1.

Symptoms of P0017

  • Check Engine light on
  • Rattle from the timing chain, especially for a few seconds after a cold start
  • Rough running, reduced power
  • Long cranking or no start
  • Higher fuel consumption

Most common causes of P0017 (most likely first)

Mechanic's Pro Tip

Do not just replace the camshaft sensor because the code mentions camshaft position. On engines with a known chain problem, a correlation code is often the first electronic sign of chain stretch – check the timing before buying a sensor.

  1. 1.One of the two sensors is faulty or drifting

    Most likely

  2. 2.Mechanical cause

    For example a stretched timing chain, a wrong installation or a leak that really makes the two values differ.

  3. 3.Wiring fault on one of the two signals

  4. 4.Stretched timing chain or worn guides/tensioner

    Common on several well-known engines; the cold-start rattle is the typical warning.

  5. 5.Timing belt jumped a tooth or wrongly installed

    Often after a timing belt job.

  6. 6.Faulty camshaft adjuster (VVT unit)

    The adjuster does not return to its base position.

  7. 7.Low oil pressure or wrong oil

    The hydraulic tensioner and the adjusters depend on oil pressure.

Step-by-step diagnostic guide

  1. 1

    Read codes and correlation values

    Read all codes and, where available, the camshaft/crankshaft deviation values in live data. Many manufacturers specify a limit in degrees.

  2. 2

    Compare both signals side by side

    Display both values together in live data (or on a two-channel oscilloscope) and see which one is out of line with the actual conditions. Fix that signal or the mechanical cause first.

  3. 3

    Listen to the engine

    Listen for timing chain rattle at a cold start and when idling. Check oil level and condition.

  4. 4

    Compare cam and crank signals

    With a two-channel oscilloscope, compare the camshaft and crankshaft signals with a known-good pattern for the engine – this shows the timing deviation without opening the engine.

  5. 5

    Inspect the timing drive

    If the deviation is confirmed, inspect the chain, guides and tensioner or the belt marks. On many engines chain stretch can be checked through an inspection port or with the tensioner position.

  6. 6

    Repair and adapt

    Replace the timing chain kit or correct the belt timing, replace faulty adjusters, then clear codes and run any required camshaft adaptations.

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep driving with P0017?

Not recommended. If the cause is a stretched chain or jumped belt, further driving can lead to the chain jumping and major engine damage. Have the timing checked first.

How much does it cost to fix P0017?

Typical repair costs are 50 € – 3000 €, depending on the cause and the vehicle. The most common fixes are: one of the two sensors is faulty or drifting; mechanical cause; wiring fault on one of the two signals. Always confirm the cause with the tests above before buying parts.

Can I drive with a camshaft/crankshaft correlation code?

It is risky. If the cause is a stretched chain or jumped belt, the timing can slip further and the valves can hit the pistons. Have it checked before driving further.

What does bank 1 sensor A mean?

Bank 1 is the side of the engine with cylinder 1. Sensor A is usually the intake camshaft and sensor B the exhaust camshaft.

What is the difference between P0017 and similar codes?

P0017 belongs to a group of codes for the same component that differ in the type or location of the fault: P0008 – Engine Position System Performance - Bank 1; P0009 – Engine Position System Performance - Bank 2; P0016 – Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor A; P0018 – Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor A; P0019 – Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor B; P0315 – Crankshaft Position System Variation Not Learned. The tests on this page apply to the whole group; the type of fault tells you where to start.

Related fault codes

This guide is for information only. Working on vehicles can be dangerous — if you are unsure, have the car checked by a qualified mechanic. Values can differ between model years; always check the manufacturer's repair information.