P0017: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor B)
P0017 means the engine computer sees the crankshaft and Bank 1 Sensor B camshaft signals out of sync. The most common fix is replacing a faulty camshaft/crankshaft sensor, repairing wiring, or correcting an oil/variable valve timing problem, typically costing $150 to $900 depending on the cause.
- Severity
- High
- Can I drive?
- Drive with caution
- DIY?
- Possible with some experience
- Repair cost range
- $80 – $1,800
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What does P0017 mean?
P0017 sets when the PCM cannot match the crankshaft position signal to the expected camshaft position on Bank 1, Sensor B. In plain terms, the computer thinks the engine timing relationship is off. This can happen from a bad sensor, stretched timing chain, incorrect cam timing, low or dirty oil affecting cam timing actuators, or damaged wiring. Some vehicles may also set the code if the engine has recently been worked on and the timing is not set correctly.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Rough idle
- Hard starting
- Loss of power when accelerating
- Engine may stall
- Poor fuel mileage
Causes, fixes and costs
P0017: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor B)
General guide for most cars. Your car may differ.
The engine may run poorly, stall, or develop more serious timing damage if the problem is ignored. Stop driving if the engine is knocking, has a flashing check engine light, stalls repeatedly, or will not stay running.
Most likely causes
- 1
Faulty camshaft or crankshaft sensorHigh
A failing sensor can send an incorrect signal, which often comes with rough running, hard starts, or an intermittent check engine light. If the code appears and disappears or the engine runs mostly normal, sensor or wiring issues are likely.
Quick check: Inspect the sensor connectors and wiring for damage, then scan live data for erratic cam/crank signals or test the sensors with a meter/scope.
- 2
Stretched timing chain or slipped timing beltHigh
This is more likely if the engine runs rough all the time, lacks power, rattles on startup, or has a history of high mileage and overdue timing service. A mechanical timing problem can make the cam and crank no longer line up.
Quick check: Listen for chain rattle on cold start and verify mechanical timing marks during inspection.
- 3
Oil flow or variable valve timing problemMedium
Low oil level, dirty oil, a clogged oil control valve, or a stuck cam phaser can cause correlation codes, especially if the car idles rough or the code appears after an oil change delay. These problems are common on engines that depend on oil pressure for cam timing control.
Quick check: Check the oil level and condition first, then inspect for related VVT codes and scan the commanded vs. actual cam timing.
- 4
Wiring or connector damageMedium
If the code is intermittent, shows up after hitting bumps, or comes with other electrical issues, damaged wiring may be the cause. Heat, oil contamination, and rodent damage can all interrupt the sensor signal.
Quick check: Wiggle-test the harness, inspect for rubbed-through wires, corrosion, or oil in the connectors.
Can you fix it yourself?
Possible with some experience
Difficulty: Moderate. Basic checks like oil level, connector inspection, and replacing an easily accessed sensor may be DIY-friendly. Timing chain, cam phaser, or internal timing repairs usually need a workshop and a scan tool or timing tools.
Show the stepsHide the steps
- Check engine oil level and condition
- Inspect cam and crank sensor connectors and wiring
- Scan for related codes and look at live data
- Clear the code and see if it returns
- Replace a clearly failed sensor if it is easy to access
- Do not continue driving if the engine runs badly or rattles
Estimated repair cost
$150 – $350
Camshaft or crankshaft position sensor: parts ~$30-$120, labor ~$120-$230
- Oil change and VVT system inspection$80 – $200
- Wiring repair or connector replacement$120 – $400
- Timing chain service$900 – $1,800
- Cam phaser or VVT oil control valve replacement$250 – $900
Actual prices vary by engine layout, parts access, and local labor rates.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with code P0017?
You can sometimes drive short distances, but it is not a code to ignore. If the engine is shaking, stalling, knocking, or has a flashing check engine light, stop driving and have it towed.
Will P0017 clear itself?
It may clear temporarily if the problem is intermittent, but the underlying fault usually comes back. If the timing problem is mechanical, the code will return until the repair is made.
Is P0017 always a bad timing chain?
No. A bad sensor, wiring issue, low oil, or a stuck cam phaser can also set it. Timing chain problems are common, but they are not the only cause.
Can an oil change fix P0017?
Sometimes, if the engine had very low, dirty, or wrong oil and the cam timing system was affected. If the code returns after a proper oil change, more diagnosis is needed.
Will P0017 fail inspection?
In many states, yes, because the check engine light is on and the readiness monitors may not set. Fixing the cause and clearing the code is usually required before inspection will pass.
Related codes
- 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)
- P0011 A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced Or System Performance
- P0012 A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded
- P0340 Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit (Bank 1)
Related problems
This guide covers most cars and is general advice, not an inspection. Prices are typical US independent-shop ranges and vary by region, car and shop. If your brakes, steering or a warning light feel unsafe, stop driving and contact a mechanic.