Quick Answer
P0017 means: P0017 indicates a misalignment between the crankshaft and camshaft positions, affecting engine timing.
Can I drive with P0017? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent engine damage.
Common Questions
What does P0017 mean and how does it affect my car?
P0017 signifies a misalignment between the crankshaft and camshaft, which can lead to various performance issues including rough idling, reduced acceleration, and poor fuel economy. If not addressed, this can result in further engine damage.
What are the most common causes of P0017 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include faulty sensors (50% likelihood), stretched timing belts (30%), and oil flow issues (10%). Repair costs can range from $150 for sensor replacement to $1,500 for timing chain replacement.
Can I drive my car with P0017 or should I stop immediately?
It’s advisable to stop driving immediately if you see the P0017 code, as it can lead to severe engine damage if the problem persists.
How can I diagnose P0017 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, scan your vehicle to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes and freeze frame data. Check the live data for sensor readings to identify anomalies in crankshaft and camshaft positions.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0017?
Commonly affected vehicles include the 2014-2017 Ford Fusion, 2016-2019 Chevrolet Malibu, and several models from Nissan and Toyota in the same year range.
How can I prevent P0017 from happening again?
Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and replacing timing belts as recommended, can help prevent future occurrences of P0017.
What is P0017?
The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0017 indicates a problem with the correlation between the crankshaft position and the camshaft position. This typically means that the engine's timing is off, which can lead to poor engine performance, increased emissions, and potential engine damage if left unaddressed. When this code appears, it suggests the engine control module (ECM) has detected a discrepancy between the signals from the crankshaft and camshaft sensors. This condition can occur due to a variety of reasons including a stretched timing chain or belt, a faulty sensor, or issues with the engine timing itself. For many vehicle owners, this can manifest as a rough idle, reduced acceleration, or the dreaded check engine light illuminating on the dashboard. Ignoring this code may lead to further complications, such as decreased fuel efficiency and increased wear on engine components. It's essential to diagnose and address the issue promptly to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P0017 is present:
- Check engine light remains illuminated, indicating a need for immediate diagnostic attention.
- Engine hesitates during acceleration, making it difficult to merge or overtake safely.
- Fuel economy has decreased by 10-15%, leading to more frequent visits to the gas station.
- Rough idle when the vehicle is stopped, causing vibrations that can be felt inside the cabin.
- Unusual noises from the engine, such as rattling or knocking, suggesting potential mechanical failure.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P0017 (ordered by frequency):
- {'cause': 'Faulty camshaft or crankshaft sensor - 50% likelihood. These sensors are crucial for engine timing and can fail due to wear or exposure to extreme conditions.', 'details': 'When either sensor malfunctions, the ECM cannot accurately determine the position of the crank or camshaft, resulting in a P0017 code.'}
- {'cause': 'Stretched timing belt or chain - 30% likelihood. Over time, timing belts can stretch or wear out, causing misalignment.', 'details': 'Regular maintenance is crucial to replace timing belts according to manufacturer recommendations, typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.'}
- {'cause': 'Oil flow issues to the VVT system - 10% likelihood. Insufficient oil can affect the variable valve timing (VVT) system, leading to timing discrepancies.', 'preventionTips': 'Regular oil changes and monitoring oil levels can help avoid these issues.'}
- {'cause': 'Mechanical failure in the engine - 8% likelihood. This could include issues like a damaged timing gear or chain.', 'details': 'These problems are less common but can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed.'}
- {'cause': 'Corroded or damaged wiring - 2% likelihood. Wiring issues can disrupt signals between the sensors and the ECM.', 'details': 'Visual inspections can help identify these types of problems early.'}
P0017 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Sensor Replacement
Replacing faulty camshaft or crankshaft sensors is often the first step in resolving the P0017 code.
- Total: $150 - $400
- Success rate: 85%
Timing Belt/Chain Replacement
If the timing belt or chain is found to be stretched or damaged, this will need to be replaced.
- Total: $500 - $1,500
- Success rate: 90%
Money-Saving Tips for P0017
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional P0017 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0017. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components like camshaft and crankshaft sensors (20-30 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (15-20 minutes)
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: 2015 Ford Fusion P0017 Diagnosis and Repair
Vehicle: 2015 Ford Fusion, 85,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported check engine light and rough idling.
Diagnosis: Using GeekOBD APP, retrieved P0017 code and found sensor readings inconsistent.
Solution: Replaced the camshaft position sensor and performed a timing belt inspection.
Cost: $350 (including parts and labor)
Result: Customer reported improved performance and no check engine light after repair.
Case Study 2: 2016 Chevrolet Malibu P0017 Case Study
Vehicle: 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, 60,000 miles
Problem: Engine hesitating during acceleration.
Diagnosis: OBD2 scan showed P0017, and further inspection revealed a stretched timing chain.
Solution: Replaced timing chain and adjusted timing settings.
Cost: $1,200 (cost breakdown included parts and labor)
Result: Post-repair, vehicle performance was restored, and customer expressed satisfaction.