P0017

Universal

Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor B

Definition source: General OBD-II reference catalog

Definition verification: Not independently verified for display.

Time: Varies by diagnosis and vehicle | Diagnostic difficulty: Medium

Medium Severity

The engine computer compares crankshaft and camshaft position signals to check whether Bank 1 camshaft position Sensor B is in the expected relationship to the crankshaft. P0017 means the detected relationship does not match the expected condition. The code identifies a detected condition, not a specific failed part. Depending on the cause, the engine may run poorly or lose performance, though it may also show no noticeable symptoms.

Report an error with this code

⚠️ Before You Begin (Safety First)

If the engine runs very roughly, stalls, loses significant power, or makes unusual mechanical noises, stop driving when safe and arrange an inspection. Continued operation with a serious camshaft timing problem could lead to further engine damage. If it runs normally, avoid hard driving and have the code diagnosed promptly.

Common Symptoms

The check-engine light may be on, with no noticeable change in how the vehicle drives.
Hard starting or extended cranking may occur if the detected timing relationship affects engine synchronization.
Rough running, misfires, or unstable idle may occur when camshaft timing or position signals are inconsistent.
Reduced power or poor acceleration may occur if the engine computer limits operation or valve timing is not as expected.
Stalling may occur in more severe cases, depending on the underlying fault.

Common Causes

A fault in the Bank 1 Sensor B camshaft position signal or the crankshaft position signal can make their relationship appear incorrect.
Damaged wiring, a poor electrical connection, or a connector problem can interrupt or distort a position signal.
Mechanical camshaft timing may have shifted or may not be controlled as expected.
A timing chain, belt, tensioner, or related timing component may be worn or damaged, depending on the engine design.
If the engine uses variable cam timing, an oil-control or camshaft-adjustment problem may prevent the camshaft from reaching the expected position.
A problem with the engine computer or its signal processing is possible but should be considered only after other causes are checked.

Diagnostic Steps

Note whether the engine is hard to start, running roughly, losing power, stalling, or making unusual noises; these details help assess urgency.
With the engine off and cool, check the engine-oil level and look for an obvious leak or severely degraded oil. Correct oil level and condition can matter on engines with oil-controlled cam timing; use the vehicle's specified oil.
Visually inspect accessible camshaft and crankshaft sensor wiring and connectors for looseness, damaged insulation, corrosion, or contamination. Do not pull on wires or probe terminals without the correct service information.
If a suitable scan tool is available, record the stored code and freeze-frame information before clearing anything. Other codes and the conditions when the code appeared can help guide diagnosis.
Do not replace a sensor based on P0017 alone. If the code returns or symptoms are present, have signal relationships and mechanical timing checked using procedures for the specific engine.

When to Call a Professional

Confirm the code and review available freeze-frame and camshaft/crankshaft data before replacing parts. A technician can check wiring and connectors, compare camshaft and crankshaft signals with suitable scan or scope equipment, and verify mechanical timing and related oil-control components if fitted. Procedures and expected readings depend on the model, year, and engine.

Compare component listings

Confirm diagnosis and vehicle fitment before buying. A listing does not prove that a part needs replacement. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

Search Amazon Search eBay

Commonly Asked Questions

Does P0017 prove that the camshaft position sensor is bad?

No. It reports a mismatch between crankshaft and Bank 1 Sensor B camshaft position. A sensor, wiring, mechanical timing, or a related camshaft-control issue may be involved.

Does Sensor B always mean the exhaust camshaft?

Not necessarily. The meaning and identification of Sensor B depend on the engine. Check model-, year-, and engine-specific service information rather than assuming its location or role.

Can I keep driving with P0017?

That depends on how the vehicle runs and the underlying cause. Avoid driving if it stalls, runs very roughly, loses significant power, or makes unusual mechanical noises. Otherwise, arrange diagnosis promptly and avoid hard driving.

Could an oil issue cause this code?

On engines with oil-controlled cam timing, low, unsuitable, or degraded oil can interfere with camshaft adjustment. It is one possible cause, not proof that an oil or timing component is at fault.

What tests help identify the cause?

Useful checks include reviewing scan data and related codes, inspecting signal wiring and connectors, comparing camshaft and crankshaft signals, and verifying mechanical timing and related control components as applicable to the engine.

Browse Available Code Guides

Previous and next available guides in database record order, across makes. Adjacent entries may share a code number and do not necessarily describe related faults.