Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor B)
What it means
The engine computer constantly compares the crankshaft position sensor signal with the "B" camshaft (usually the exhaust cam) sensor signal on Bank 1. This code is set because the relationship between the two signals is out of the allowed range, meaning the cam is no longer where it should be relative to the crankshaft. The key cause to rule out is a stretched or jumped timing chain.
Symptoms5
- Check engine light on.
- Hard or long cranking.
- Loss of power and rough running.
- A rattle from the front of the engine, especially at cold start, if the chain is stretched.
- Stalling or a no-start in severe cases.
Possible causes6
- Stretched timing chain or worn tensioner or guides.
- Timing chain or belt jumped a tooth, or installed on the wrong marks after a previous repair.
- Cam phaser (VVT gear) stuck away from its home position.
- Sticking VVT oil control valve, or low or dirty oil.
- Faulty cam or crank sensor or their wiring.
- Damaged toothed ring read by the sensor on the cam or crank (less common).
How to diagnose5
- Read all codes; codes for the cam or crank sensor itself point to the sensor and its wiring first.
- Check oil level and condition, and listen for chain rattle at cold start.
- View cam-to-crank deviation values on a scan tool, if available, and compare them with the manufacturer limits.
- Compare both sensor signals on an oscilloscope to measure the offset.
- Check the timing marks mechanically to confirm chain stretch or a jumped tooth before replacing major parts.
How to fix5
- Change the oil and filter if the oil is low or dirty, then clear the code and retest.
- Replace the VVT oil control valve if it is proven to stick.
- Repair the cam or crank sensor wiring, or replace the sensor if it is proven faulty.
- Replace the timing chain kit with tensioner and guides, plus the phaser if needed, and set the timing to the correct marks.
- Clear the codes and confirm the two signals line up and the code does not return.
Repair cost
In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.
The cost is low when oil or a sensor is to blame, and reaches the upper end when the timing chain kit and phaser are replaced, since the job requires opening the front of the engine.
Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with this code?
Long drives are not advised. If a stretched chain is the cause it can jump suddenly, and on some engines the valves can then hit the pistons and ruin the engine.
Should I replace the sensor first?
Only if testing proves it faulty. Often both sensor signals are correct and the problem is mechanical timing, so replacing the sensor alone may not clear the code.
What does it mean if P0017 and P0016 appear together?
P0016 covers the other cam on the same bank. Seeing both together points to something shared by both cams, such as the timing chain or the crank sensor, rather than one cam.
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What was wrong? (optional)
This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.
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