This trouble code P0017 activates when the crankshaft position sensor and exhaust camshaft position sensor are unable to correlate their readings in relation to the timing. The engine control module expects both camshaft and crankshaft to be powered on in precise synchronization, yet when more than 10 degrees intervene between the two, fuel delivery disruption, ignition timing, and engine performance are affected.
It is indeed a severe problem that needs to be dealt with immediately because ignoring this issue may cause catastrophic engine damage.
Causes for the P0017.
The following are the most common reasons or causes that cause this trouble code to emerge in a vehicle:
1. Stretched, Worn, or Misaligned Timing Belt/Chain
The timing belt or chain makes the crankshaft and camshaft move with all timing.
Over time it will stretch or skip a tooth resulting in wrong timing.
This can cause misalignment if the tensioner broke or has gotten weak.
2. Defective Crankshaft or Camshaft Position Sensors
These sensors send the wrong signal to the ECM when CMP or CKP fails.
Also, if the reluctor ring (timing disc) is broken, it generates error signals.
3. Wiring or Connector Issues
Frayed, corroded, or broken wires keep signals from getting to and from the sensor and ECM.
Dirty or loose sensor connectors can cause sporadic readings as well.
4. Clogged Oil Channels or Wrong Oil Type
The camshaft phaser is entirely dependent on oil pressure to function properly.
Thick oil or wrong viscosity oil might cause a phaser failure.
5. Faulty Camshaft Phaser Solenoid
Then the camshaft timing cannot be modulated properly. The engine may be stuck in one timing phase, which activates P0017.
Symptoms of P0017
Here are a few symptoms that may occur in your car if it gets the P0017 error code:
Check Engine Light (MIL) is ON
Reduced engine power and acceleration issues
Rough idling or engine misfires
Fuel efficiency is not that great
Problems in starting
Strange engine sounds (rattling, ticking)
How to Fix P0017?
The P0017 error codes could be diagnosed as follows:
1. Check Engine Oil
Check for optimum oil levels and top them up as required.
If it is old or sludged, flush and refill the system with proper viscosity oil.
This helps maintain proper camshaft phaser operation.
2. Inspect the Crankshaft & Camshaft Position Sensors
Check resistance and voltage of the sensors using a multimeter.
If out of range, replaced the faulty sensor.
Clean sensor connectors using an electronic contact cleaner.
If the reluctor ring has missing teeth or is misaligned, replace it.
3. Analyze Wiring and Connectors
Check the wiring harness for damage (frayed, broken, or corroded wires).
Repair or replace any faulty connectors.
4. Check Timing Belt/Chain
Replace the timing belt/chain if stretched, worn, or skipped a tooth.
Check the tensioner and adjust if needed.
Verify that the camshaft and crankshaft both align properly with one another.
5. Camshaft Phaser & Solenoid Testing
Replace the phaser solenoid with a jammed one.
Inspect oil flow issues in the VVT system.
6. Reset the ECM and Test Drive
Clear P0017 code with an OBD-II scanner.
Drive the car briefly.
More diagnosis troubleshooting is required if it happens again.
Can You Drive with the P0017 Code?
No!
P0017 can cause:
Major destruction to the engine when timing chain/belt fails completely.
Poor fuel economy & power loss such that it’s unsafe to drive.
Permanent damage to camshaft, valves, and pistons.
Do not drive a vehicle if it has a rough running engine, misfiring, or is difficult to start – fix it promptly.
