P0009 on Saturn
Engine Position System Performance - Bank 2
P0009 on Saturn vehicles indicates engine position system performance - bank 2. Au7o has documented this code across 2 Saturn models — most commonly on Aura, Vue. This code means the engine control module detected that the position of the camshaft(s) on bank 2 is out of alignment with the crankshaft beyond an acceptable range. The computer compares crankshaft and camshaft position sensor signals to confirm the valve timing is correct; when bank 2 is off, the engine's intake and exhaust valves are not opening and closing at the proper moments. This can cause rough running, reduced power, hard starting, or rattling, and on engines with variable valve timing it often involves the timing components or the phasing system. It generally indicates a mechanical timing problem — such as a stretched chain or jumped timing — on the bank of cylinders not containing cylinder 1. Typical repair costs on Saturn range from $1,500 to $4,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0009
- •Stretched or worn timing chain on bank 2
- •Worn timing chain guides or tensioner
- •Faulty camshaft phaser / variable valve timing actuator
- •Stuck or clogged VVT oil control (cam phaser) solenoid
- •Low oil level or dirty oil affecting VVT operation
- •Camshaft or crankshaft position sensor fault
- •Timing chain that has jumped a tooth (skipped timing)
P0009 on Saturn by Model
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 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 P0009 on a different make?
View P0009 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0009 mean on Saturn?▼
P0009 stands for "Engine Position System Performance - Bank 2." This code means the engine control module detected that the position of the camshaft(s) on bank 2 is out of alignment with the crankshaft beyond an acceptable range. The computer compares crankshaft and camshaft position sensor signals to confirm the valve timing is correct; when bank 2 is off, the engine's intake and exhaust valves are not opening and closing at the proper moments. This can cause rough running, reduced power, hard starting, or rattling, and on engines with variable valve timing it often involves the timing components or the phasing system. It generally indicates a mechanical timing problem — such as a stretched chain or jumped timing — on the bank of cylinders not containing cylinder 1. On Saturn specifically, this code is documented across 2 models.
What causes P0009 on Saturn vehicles?▼
Common causes on Saturn: Stretched or worn timing chain on bank 2, Worn timing chain guides or tensioner, Faulty camshaft phaser / variable valve timing actuator, Stuck or clogged VVT oil control (cam phaser) solenoid, Low oil level or dirty oil affecting VVT operation. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0009 on a Saturn?▼
Repair costs on Saturn range from $1,500 to $4,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Saturn models have P0009 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0009 on 2 Saturn models: Aura, Vue.