P0017: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor B)
If you hope to repair your car yourself, rather than taking it to a mechanic, you need to use the error code system. This is a way you can get specific information about what is wrong from the vehicle. You also need to know what the specific error code you are given means. If you receive an OBD-II scanner error code P0017 problem, you probably will not know what it means. Even if you learn that it refers to a camshaft position correlation, you may not know what to do with that information. With our guide, you will have all the information you need.
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Understanding the Error
The first question you probably have is, “What does the code P0017 mean?” To start, you need to understand what the camshaft and crankshaft are. Both of these parts relate to the cylinders in the car. The camshaft opens and closes valves, which let an air/fuel mixture into the cylinders. Next, a spark causes this mixture to combust, which drives the cylinders. Finally, the crankshaft translates the force of the cylinders into a circular motion, which can be used to turn the wheels. The camshaft, crankshaft, and sparks all need to be working in perfect sync for the engine to function properly. The P0017 error code indicates that there is a problem with the synchronization of these parts.
The error code P0017 specifically refers to Bank 1 Sensor B. This information helps you understand the exact part that is not working properly. Many engines have multiple banks, each containing some of the cylinders. To know what Bank 1 Sensor B means for your vehicle, you will need to consult a diagram of your engine.
The Symptoms
If there is a problem with the synchronization of your crankshaft and camshaft, the vehicle will suffer from many obvious symptoms, including:
- Very poor performance
- Difficulty starting the vehicle
- A rattling noise while running
Keep in mind that these symptoms will be in addition to the illuminated check engine light. If the error code was given by a faulty sensor, then you will not experience any of these symptoms.
The Potential Risk
Having the cylinders run out of sync may prevent you from operating your vehicle at all. If it does continue to run, its performance will deteriorate more and more until either the vehicle no longer runs or the problem is fixed. If you ignore the issue, it will likely cause even more damage, meaning you will have to spend more money to fix it. If you happen to be driving when the engine fully gives out, it may cause an accident.
Again, if the code is due to a faulty sensor, then you are not in any real danger. However, if something does go wrong with your crankshaft and camshaft, then you will not know due to the faulty sensor.
The Solutions
Now the answer to your biggest question, “How do I fix trouble code P0017?” If the engine is running fine, assume there is something wrong with the sensor and replace it. If the error continues to be given, or if the engine is running poorly, turn your attention the crankshaft and camshaft. These parts may be visibly damaged, which means you will need to replace them. If you cannot see anything wrong, consider buying a scope, which would let you evaluate their patterns. If the crankshaft and camshaft seem to be perfectly functional, then the only other part that could cause this error code is the timing belt or chain. This is a very difficult part to replace because it is usually buried deep in the engine. If you know your way around an engine, you can try to replace it, but you might want to leave it to a mechanic. You can get the parts you need at your local AutoZone Store. If the job is too big for you, seek out one of our Preferred Shops to help you do the job.
