P0008 on Saturn
Engine Position System Performance - Bank 1
P0008 on Saturn vehicles indicates engine position system performance - bank 1. Au7o has documented this code across 4 Saturn models — most commonly on Astra, Aura, Ion. P0008 means the engine computer detected that Bank 1 of the engine is timed incorrectly relative to where it should be — specifically, the relationship between the crankshaft and camshaft positions on that bank is off. The 'Engine Position System' refers to the components (timing chain/belt, sprockets, tensioners, and the variable valve timing actuators) that keep the camshafts synchronized with the crankshaft. When the computer commands a timing position but the sensors report the bank is out of the expected range, it sets this code. It generally signals a mechanical timing problem on Bank 1 that can affect performance and, if severe, risk internal engine damage. Typical repair costs on Saturn range from $600 to $4,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0008
- •Stretched or worn timing chain
- •Failed or worn timing chain guides or tensioner
- •Faulty camshaft position (VVT/VCT) actuator or solenoid
- •Low or dirty engine oil affecting timing actuator operation
- •Jumped or mistimed timing chain/belt after service
- •Faulty crankshaft or camshaft position sensor
- •Clogged oil control valve or oil passages
P0008 on Saturn by Model
Saturn Astra(1 issue)
- Astra 1.8L Z18XER Water Pump / Timing Chain Wear2008-2009
2008-2009 Saturn Astra is the Belgian-built Opel Astra H rebadged. The 1.8L Z18XER engine's water pump is driven from the timing chain — pump failure can jam the chain and bend valves. Common at 80,000-130,000 miles. Parts have become scarce in North America since Saturn / Opel withdrew.
Saturn Aura(2 issues)
- Aura 3.6L LY7 V6 Timing Chain Stretch2007-2009
The GM 3.6L LY7/LLT "High Feature" V6 in 2007-2009 Saturn Aura XR (and shared Chevy Malibu / Pontiac G6 / Cadillac CTS) develops timing chain stretch typically by 80,000-150,000 miles. Same root cause family as the LLT in Enclave/LaCrosse/Acadia — extended oil intervals starve the chain.
- 3.6L V6 (LY7) Stretched Timing Chains2007-2009
The early GM 3.6L high-feature V6 (used in Aura XR) is prone to premature timing chain stretch, sometimes appearing as early as 50,000-100,000 miles. As the chains wear, camshaft-to-crankshaft timing drifts out of spec, setting correlation codes and eventually causing rough running, reduced power, and potential engine damage if ignored. A cold-start rattle is a common early warning sign.
Saturn Ion(1 issue)
- 2.2L Ecotec Timing Chain Stretch and Tensioner Failure2003-2004
Early 2.2L Ecotec (L61) engines have a timing chain oiling deficiency: the oiler nozzle doesn't supply enough oil at low RPM, leading to chain stretch, worn plastic guides, and a weak original tensioner that loses tension. Because the Ecotec is an interference engine, a chain that jumps time or breaks causes pistons to strike valves, often resulting in catastrophic engine damage. GM revised the tensioner/oiler for 2005, after which the problem largely disappeared.
Saturn Vue(1 issue)
- 3.6L High Feature V6 (LY7) Timing Chain Stretch2008-2010
The 3.6L 'High Feature' V6 used in the redesigned 2008-2010 Vue (and shared with Aura/Outlook/Acadia/CTS) is prone to timing chain stretch, often aggravated by extended oil-change intervals. As the chains and plastic guides wear, cam/crank timing drifts out of correlation, triggering the check-engine light, rough running, and a rattle on cold start. GM issued Information Bulletin 12-06-01-009F covering timing chain kit and guide replacement for DTCs P0008/P0009/P0016/P0017/P0018/P0019.
Looking for P0008 on a different make?
View P0008 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0008 mean on Saturn?▼
P0008 stands for "Engine Position System Performance - Bank 1." P0008 means the engine computer detected that Bank 1 of the engine is timed incorrectly relative to where it should be — specifically, the relationship between the crankshaft and camshaft positions on that bank is off. The 'Engine Position System' refers to the components (timing chain/belt, sprockets, tensioners, and the variable valve timing actuators) that keep the camshafts synchronized with the crankshaft. When the computer commands a timing position but the sensors report the bank is out of the expected range, it sets this code. It generally signals a mechanical timing problem on Bank 1 that can affect performance and, if severe, risk internal engine damage. On Saturn specifically, this code is documented across 4 models.
What causes P0008 on Saturn vehicles?▼
Common causes on Saturn: Stretched or worn timing chain, Failed or worn timing chain guides or tensioner, Faulty camshaft position (VVT/VCT) actuator or solenoid, Low or dirty engine oil affecting timing actuator operation, Jumped or mistimed timing chain/belt after service. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0008 on a Saturn?▼
Repair costs on Saturn range from $600 to $4,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Saturn models have P0008 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0008 on 4 Saturn models: Astra, Aura, Ion, Vue.