What's the difference between P0016 and P0017?

P0016 reports a crank-to-intake-cam correlation problem on Bank 1. P0017 reports the same problem but for the exhaust cam on Bank 1. Both indicate the mechanical timing relationship is wrong, not just a VVT solenoid issue. If both codes are present together, the timing chain is the most likely cause.

Can I keep driving with P0017?

Only as far as the nearest shop. P0017 indicates the timing system is operating outside spec. If a stretched timing chain is the cause and the chain skips further teeth, the result is often piston-to-valve contact and an engine that requires rebuilding or replacement.

If I only have P0017 and not P0016, is it less serious?

Possibly. P0017 alone often points to the exhaust VVT actuator or exhaust cam sensor — components that are cheaper to replace than the timing chain. P0017 with P0016 (or with timing chain rattle) is the higher-risk scenario.

Will engine oil affect this code?

Yes. VVT actuators rely on clean engine oil at proper pressure to function. Sludged or low oil can cause VVT actuators to stick in extreme positions and throw correlation codes. Change the oil with manufacturer-specified viscosity before condemning the timing chain — it's the cheapest first step.

OBD-II trouble code

P0017: Crankshaft Position — Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1, Sensor B)

The relationship between the crankshaft and exhaust camshaft on Bank 1 is outside the expected window. Same root causes as P0016 — often a stretched timing chain. Don't ignore it.

Quick facts

System: Powertrain
Category: Variable Valve Timing
Severity: High severity
Drivable: Usually safe to drive short-term
Repair cost range: $200 – $3,000
DIY difficulty: Shop recommended

What does P0017 mean?

P0017 is the exhaust-camshaft counterpart to P0016. The engine control module (ECM) compares crankshaft position to the exhaust camshaft position (Camshaft Position B) on Bank 1. When the cam is too far advanced or retarded relative to where the crankshaft position says it should be, the ECM stores P0017.

The diagnostic implications are similar to P0016: the underlying mechanical timing relationship is wrong, not just a stuck VVT solenoid. If P0017 appears alongside P0016, the timing chain is the prime suspect because a stretched chain throws off both intake and exhaust cam correlation at once. If P0017 appears alone, the issue may be isolated to the exhaust VVT actuator or sensor.

Known platforms with widespread timing chain issues that throw P0017 include Hyundai/Kia 2.4L Theta II, BMW N20 and N26, Audi/VW 2.0L TSI, and certain Ford EcoBoost engines. As with P0016, P0017 should be diagnosed promptly — a chain that skips further can cause piston-to-valve contact and destroy the engine.

Common causes

Stretched timing chain (often appears alongside P0016 on platforms with chain stretch issues)
Jumped timing chain or timing belt
Failed exhaust VVT actuator
Failed crankshaft position sensor
Failed Bank 1 exhaust camshaft position sensor
Damaged tone ring on the crankshaft or exhaust camshaft
Severely dirty or low engine oil
Worn timing chain tensioner or guide

Symptoms

Check engine light is on
Rough idle
Hard starting or no-start in severe cases
Reduced power
Timing chain rattle at startup before oil pressure builds
Possible misfire codes alongside P0017
Engine may hesitate or stall

Diagnostic steps

1.Pull all stored codes. P0017 plus P0016 is a strong indicator of timing chain stretch; P0017 alone is more often an exhaust VVT or sensor issue.
2.Check engine oil level and condition immediately.
3.Use a scan tool to monitor crankshaft and exhaust camshaft positions during cranking and idle.
4.Listen for timing chain rattle at cold start. Audible rattle plus P0017 strongly suggests a stretched chain.
5.Inspect the timing chain through the oil fill cap or with an inspection camera if access allows.
6.If the timing chain looks mechanically sound, test the exhaust VVT actuator and the exhaust camshaft position sensor.
7.On platforms with known timing chain issues, plan for timing chain replacement once P0017 is confirmed.

Repair cost

$200 – $3,000

Exhaust camshaft sensor replacement is $150 to $500. Exhaust VVT solenoid is $200 to $700. Timing chain replacement runs $1,000 to $3,000 depending on the engine. BMW and Audi platforms are on the higher end. Class-action coverage may apply to Hyundai/Kia 2.4L Theta II engines.

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DIY vs shop

Leave this one to a qualified shop. It typically involves emissions-critical components, refrigerant handling, or other work that requires manufacturer-grade tooling, training, or certification. DIY attempts often produce a more expensive problem than the original code.