P0008
Fix within a few daysEngine Position System Performance Bank 1. This means your engine's computer detects that the crankshaft and camshaft positions on Bank 1 are out of sync.
Code P0008 means your engine's cam and crank are out of sync. Common causes: Stretched timing chain (90%), VVT actuator (8%). Drivability: Limit driving, fix within days. Repair cost: $1,000-$2,500 DIY, $2,000-$5,000 professional.
Can I Drive With P0008?
Limit driving, fix within a few days
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways and heavy acceleration. Immediate repair needed.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, loud rattling or grinding noises, significant power loss, engine stalling, or inability to start.
Symptoms of P0008
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Reduced engine power
- 3Rough idle or stalling
- 4Engine noise (rattling or whining from the front of the engine)
- 5Poor fuel economy
- 6Engine may not start
Common Causes of P0008
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
A stretched timing chain or worn guides/tensioners prevent the camshafts and crankshaft from staying in proper synchronization.
90% of P0008 cases are fixed by replacing the timing chain and related components
A faulty VVT actuator can fail to adjust camshaft timing correctly, leading to a correlation error with the crankshaft.
8% of P0008 cases are fixed by replacing a VVT actuator
Insufficient oil pressure or sludged oil can prevent hydraulic timing chain tensioners and VVT actuators from functioning correctly, causing timing issues.
2% of P0008 cases are fixed by addressing oil pressure or quality issues
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Check your engine oil level and condition. Low or dirty oil can affect hydraulic tensioners and VVT actuators.
- Listen carefully for any rattling, whining, or grinding noises coming from the front of your engine, especially during startup or idle. This is a strong indicator of a stretched timing chain.
How to Diagnose P0008
- 1Check for other related codes (P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0009).
- 2Check engine oil level and condition; ensure it's full and clean.
- 3Listen for any rattling or whining noises from the front of the engine, especially on startup or during acceleration.
- 4Use a scan tool to monitor camshaft and crankshaft position sensor data for discrepancies.
- 5Perform a physical inspection of the timing chain components, which often requires removing the front engine cover.
P0008 on Popular Vehicles
Chevrolet Traverse
2009-2017Highly prone to P0008 due to stretched timing chains on the 3.6L V6 engine. Often requires full timing chain kit replacement.
95% fixed by timing chain replacement
GMC Acadia
2007-2016Similar to the Traverse, the 3.6L V6 in the Acadia frequently develops P0008 from stretched timing chains. Regular oil changes are critical but often don't prevent it.
95% fixed by timing chain replacement
Buick Enclave
2008-2017The 3.6L V6 in the Enclave is also very susceptible to P0008 due to timing chain wear. This is a known issue across these GM platforms.
95% fixed by timing chain replacement
Cadillac CTS
2008-2015Certain 3.6L V6 engines in the CTS can also experience P0008 due to timing chain stretch, though less frequently than the larger SUVs.
90% fixed by timing chain replacement
Ford F-150
2011-2017Ford's 3.5L EcoBoost engines can also develop P0008/P0009, often due to timing chain stretch or VVT phaser issues, sometimes accompanied by a 'cold start rattle'.
85% fixed by timing chain/phaser replacement
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0008 mean?
P0008 indicates that the engine's computer has detected a misalignment or performance issue between the crankshaft and camshaft positions on Bank 1. This usually points to a problem with the mechanical timing components, like a stretched timing chain.
Can I drive with P0008?
Limit driving, fix within a few days. While your car might still run, ignoring P0008 can lead to severe engine damage, including catastrophic engine failure if the timing chain breaks or jumps further. Drive only if absolutely necessary and for short distances.
Will P0008 clear itself?
No, P0008 will not clear itself. This code indicates a mechanical issue, primarily a stretched timing chain or related component failure. The problem will persist until the faulty parts are replaced. Clearing the code with a scan tool will only make it reappear shortly.
How do I fix P0008 myself?
Fixing P0008 yourself involves diagnosing the exact cause, which is often a stretched timing chain. This requires significant mechanical skill, specialized tools, and often partial engine disassembly to replace the timing chain, guides, and tensioners. It's a complex job.
How much does it cost to fix P0008?
The cost to fix P0008 varies significantly. DIY repair, primarily for parts like a timing chain kit, can range from $1,000 to $2,500. Professional repair, due to the extensive labor involved, typically costs between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the vehicle and shop rates.
P0008 keeps coming back - why?
If P0008 keeps coming back, it means the root cause of the timing misalignment has not been fully addressed. This could be due to an incomplete repair (e.g., only replacing the chain but not the tensioners or guides), a secondary issue like a faulty VVT actuator, or underlying low oil pressure affecting the timing system.
Will P0008 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0008 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure in most jurisdictions. Additionally, the underlying timing issue can lead to increased emissions.
What's the difference between P0008 and P0009?
P0008 indicates an engine position system performance issue specifically for Bank 1 (the side of the engine with cylinder #1). P0009 indicates the same issue but for Bank 2 (the opposite side of the engine). Both codes point to similar timing chain related problems, just on different banks.
P0008 on GM 3.6L V6 engines (e.g., Traverse, Acadia, Enclave)?
P0008 is a very common code on GM vehicles with the 3.6L V6 engine, particularly models like the Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Buick Enclave. It almost always indicates a stretched timing chain due to design flaws and extended oil change intervals. Repair involves replacing the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check for timing chain stretch or play?
Good answer: Yes, we inspected the timing chain tension and looked for any signs of wear on the guides. We also monitored cam/crank correlation data with the scan tool.
What are the camshaft and crankshaft correlation values?
Good answer: The scan tool shows the cam/crank correlation is outside the specified range, indicating a mechanical timing issue. For example, Bank 1 intake cam is X degrees off.
Did you check the oil pressure and condition?
Good answer: Yes, the oil level is correct, and the oil appears clean. We also confirmed the oil pressure is within specifications, so it's not an oil delivery issue.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$1000-$2500
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$2000-$5000
Save $1,000-$2,500 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
advanced
Time
10-20 hours
Professional recommended - This repair requires extensive mechanical knowledge, specialized tools, and significant time. Incorrect installation can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0008 can lead to catastrophic engine damage. A stretched timing chain can jump a tooth, causing valves to hit pistons, resulting in bent valves, damaged pistons, and a completely destroyed engine. A $2,000-$5,000 timing chain repair now prevents a $5,000-$10,000 engine replacement later.
While You're In There...
The water pump is often located behind the timing cover or is easily accessible once the timing cover is off. Replacing it prevents future coolant leaks and repeat labor.
These solenoids control oil flow to the VVT phasers. They are often accessible during timing chain replacement and can contribute to timing issues if faulty.
The front main seal is exposed when the harmonic balancer is removed for timing chain access. Replacing it is cheap insurance against future oil leaks.
On some engines, the oil pump is driven by the timing chain or is easily accessible once the timing cover is off. Replacing it ensures proper oil pressure for the new timing components.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool
- Full metric and standard socket set
- Torque wrenches (ft-lb and in-lb)
- Timing chain locking tools (vehicle-specific)
- Harmonic balancer puller
- Engine lifting support (if engine needs to be lowered)
- Gasket scraper
- RTV sealant
- Oil drain pan
- Coolant drain pan
P0008 is a serious code that requires immediate attention, but it is a fixable problem. Addressing it promptly will prevent much more expensive engine damage and get your vehicle running reliably again.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Check your engine oil level and condition. Ensure it's full and clean. If it's low or dirty, change it and see if the code clears (unlikely for P0008, but good practice).
Step 2: Use an OBD-II scan tool to check for any other related codes (P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0009). These codes confirm a timing correlation issue. Also, monitor live data for camshaft and crankshaft position sensor readings.
Step 3: If other codes confirm a timing issue and you hear rattling noises, prepare for a timing chain replacement. This is a complex job. Parts you'll likely need include a full timing chain kit (chain, guides, tensioners, sprockets), new timing cover gaskets, and possibly a new water pump and VVT solenoids.