P0017
Fix within 1-2 weeksThe engine's crankshaft and camshaft timing are out of sync on Bank 1, exhaust side.
Code P0017 means your engine's crankshaft and camshaft timing are out of sync on Bank 1 exhaust. Common causes: VVT solenoid (35%), low/dirty oil (30%), stretched timing chain (20%). Drivability: Yes, fix within 1-2 weeks. Repair cost: $50-$500 DIY, $150-$1500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0017?
Yes, for short trips only
Essential trips under 10 miles, avoid highways. Prolonged driving can cause engine wear.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light, loud engine noises, significant power loss, or engine stalling.
Symptoms of P0017
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Reduced engine power
- 3Rough idle or stalling
- 4Poor fuel economy
- 5Engine may be harder to start
- 6Engine noise (rattling or ticking)
Common Causes of P0017
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
A faulty variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid fails to properly control oil flow to the cam phaser, causing incorrect camshaft timing.
35% of P0017 cases are fixed by replacing this part
The VVT system relies on clean engine oil at the correct level and pressure to operate the cam phasers effectively.
30% of P0017 cases are fixed by addressing oil issues
A stretched timing chain or worn guides/tensioners directly alters the mechanical relationship between the crankshaft and camshaft.
20% of P0017 cases are fixed by replacing timing components
A faulty camshaft position sensor sends incorrect or no signal to the engine computer, leading to a perceived timing mismatch.
10% of P0017 cases are fixed by replacing this sensor
A damaged or stuck cam phaser cannot adjust the camshaft position as commanded, resulting in incorrect timing.
5% of P0017 cases are fixed by replacing this component
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Check your engine oil level and condition. Low or dirty oil is a frequent cause of VVT system codes.
- Visually inspect the wiring harness and electrical connector for the VVT solenoid and camshaft position sensor on Bank 1 exhaust for any signs of damage or corrosion.
How to Diagnose P0017
- 1Check engine oil level and condition; change oil and filter if dirty or low.
- 2Visually inspect the VVT solenoid (Bank 1, exhaust) and camshaft position sensor (Bank 1, exhaust) wiring and connectors for damage.
- 3Test the resistance of the VVT solenoid and check its operation using a scan tool or by applying power.
- 4Use a scan tool to monitor live data for crankshaft and camshaft position sensor readings to identify discrepancies.
- 5Perform a mechanical inspection of the timing chain/belt for slack or wear, if other checks are inconclusive.
P0017 on Popular Vehicles
Honda Accord
2003-2024Honda engines are sensitive to oil quality and level for VTEC/VVT operation. P0017 frequently indicates a faulty VVT oil control solenoid or neglected oil changes.
65% fixed by addressing oil or VVT solenoid
Toyota Camry
2007-2024Toyota's VVT-i system can trigger P0017 due to a failing oil control valve (OCV) or sludge buildup from infrequent oil changes, which restricts oil flow to the cam phaser.
60% fixed by addressing oil or VVT solenoid
Ford F-150
2004-2024On Ford F-150s, P0017 can be caused by VCT solenoids, but also by timing chain stretch or worn phasers, especially on higher mileage engines. Proper oil pressure is vital for the VCT system.
55% fixed by addressing VVT solenoid or timing components
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0017 mean?
P0017 indicates that the engine's computer detects a mismatch between the crankshaft position and the exhaust camshaft position on Bank 1. This means the engine's timing is off.
Can I drive with P0017?
Yes, you can drive with P0017, but fix it within 1-2 weeks. Continued driving with incorrect engine timing can lead to reduced power, poor fuel economy, and potential engine damage over time.
Will P0017 clear itself?
No, P0017 will not clear itself. The underlying mechanical or electrical issue causing the timing discrepancy must be repaired before the code will clear. Even if the Check Engine Light turns off temporarily, the problem is still present.
How do I fix P0017 myself?
Start by checking your engine oil level and condition, changing it if necessary. If the code persists, inspect and test the VVT solenoid and camshaft position sensor on Bank 1 exhaust. Replacing these parts is a common DIY fix.
How much does it cost to fix P0017?
DIY repair costs range from $50-$500, primarily for engine oil, VVT solenoids, or camshaft position sensors. Professional repair costs range from $150-$1500, depending on the cause. Timing chain replacement is significantly more expensive.
P0017 keeps coming back - why?
P0017 keeps coming back because the root cause was not fully addressed. This often happens if only a sensor was replaced when the actual issue is low oil pressure, a faulty VVT solenoid, or a stretched timing chain.
Will P0017 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0017 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on automatically results in a failure, and the underlying timing issue can also lead to higher emissions.
What's the difference between P0017 and P0016?
P0017 indicates a correlation issue between the crankshaft and the exhaust camshaft on Bank 1. P0016 indicates a correlation issue between the crankshaft and the intake camshaft on Bank 1. They point to different camshafts.
P0017 on Honda Accord?
P0017 on a Honda Accord often points to a faulty VVT (VTEC) oil control solenoid or low/dirty engine oil. Regular oil changes with the correct viscosity are critical for preventing this code on Honda engines.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the engine oil level and condition before diagnosing other components?
Good answer: Yes, I confirmed the oil was at the correct level and clean. We ruled out oil as a primary cause.
What were the live data readings for the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors?
Good answer: The scan tool showed a consistent X-degree offset between the crank and exhaust cam on Bank 1, confirming a timing issue.
Did you test the VVT solenoid's electrical resistance and functional operation?
Good answer: Yes, the solenoid's resistance was out of spec, and it did not actuate correctly when tested, indicating an internal failure.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$500
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$1500
Save $100-$1000 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-4 hours (for solenoid/sensor) to 8-16 hours (for timing chain)
Intermediate. While checking oil and replacing sensors/solenoids is manageable for many DIYers, diagnosing timing chain issues requires more advanced tools and expertise.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0017 can lead to reduced engine performance, decreased fuel economy, and increased wear on internal engine components. If the timing issue is severe, it can cause misfires, sending unburned fuel to your catalytic converter. A $50-$150 VVT solenoid job becomes a $1,200-$2,500 catalytic converter replacement.
While You're In There...
If the code is related to oil quality or level, changing the oil and filter is the first step and good preventative maintenance.
If you are replacing the VVT solenoid, the camshaft position sensor is often nearby and can be replaced with minimal additional labor, preventing a future repair.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool
- Basic Hand Tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Multimeter (for electrical testing)
- Oil Filter Wrench (if changing oil)
- Torque Wrench
P0017 is a common engine timing code. Many times, it's a straightforward fix related to engine oil or a VVT solenoid. Your engine will run smoothly once this is resolved.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Check your engine oil. Ensure it's at the correct level and clean. If not, perform an oil and filter change.
Step 2: If the oil is good, inspect the VVT solenoid (Bank 1, exhaust) and camshaft position sensor wiring. Use a multimeter to test the VVT solenoid's resistance and check for power at its connector.
Step 3: If the solenoid or sensor tests faulty, replace it. If they test good, use a scan tool to monitor live data for cam/crank correlation. If the correlation is still off, a stretched timing chain or faulty cam phaser is likely the issue.