P0017 on Saturn
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor B
P0017 on Saturn vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 1 sensor b. Au7o has documented this code across 3 Saturn models — most commonly on Aura, Ion, Vue. This code means the engine computer has detected that the crankshaft and the Bank 1 'B' camshaft (typically the exhaust camshaft) are out of their proper timing relationship with each other. The computer compares the crankshaft position signal to the camshaft position signal, and when they don't line up within the allowed window, it sets this correlation code. This usually points to mechanical timing being off, most often from a stretched or worn timing chain, a slipped or stuck variable valve timing phaser, or a tensioner problem. You may notice rough running, low power, rattling at startup, or a no-start, and it should be addressed promptly to avoid valve-to-piston contact on some engines. Typical repair costs on Saturn range from $600 to $4,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0017
- •Stretched or worn timing chain
- •Worn or failed timing chain tensioner or guides
- •Stuck or faulty variable valve timing (VVT) cam phaser
- •Faulty VVT oil control/solenoid valve
- •Low or dirty engine oil affecting phaser operation
- •Faulty camshaft or crankshaft position sensor
- •Timing chain jumped a tooth or incorrect timing after service
- •Damaged reluctor (tone) ring
P0017 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 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 P0017 on a different make?
View P0017 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0017 mean on Saturn?▼
P0017 stands for "Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor B." This code means the engine computer has detected that the crankshaft and the Bank 1 'B' camshaft (typically the exhaust camshaft) are out of their proper timing relationship with each other. The computer compares the crankshaft position signal to the camshaft position signal, and when they don't line up within the allowed window, it sets this correlation code. This usually points to mechanical timing being off, most often from a stretched or worn timing chain, a slipped or stuck variable valve timing phaser, or a tensioner problem. You may notice rough running, low power, rattling at startup, or a no-start, and it should be addressed promptly to avoid valve-to-piston contact on some engines. On Saturn specifically, this code is documented across 3 models.
What causes P0017 on Saturn vehicles?▼
Common causes on Saturn: Stretched or worn timing chain, Worn or failed timing chain tensioner or guides, Stuck or faulty variable valve timing (VVT) cam phaser, Faulty VVT oil control/solenoid valve, Low or dirty engine oil affecting phaser operation. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0017 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 P0017 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0017 on 3 Saturn models: Aura, Ion, Vue.