P0009 on Saturn: How to Diagnose & Fix
Engine Position System Performance - Bank 2
2 Saturn models · 3 documented issues · 3 critical · $1,500-$4,500 repair
P0009 on Saturn by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
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.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Rattle or rattling on cold start
- Rough idle / engine running rough
- Reduced power
- Timing correlation fault codes
How to Fix
Verify oil level and condition first; severely stretched chains require replacing the timing chains, tensioners, and guides as a complete set (often all three chains on this engine). Owners can reduce risk by using the correct dexos1-spec oil and changing it at conservative (e.g., ~5,000-mile) intervals rather than relying on the oil-life monitor's longer recommendations.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Cloyes 9-0753S complete three-chain timing set with sprockets
Variable-valve-timing sprockets/components, seals, gaskets, fluids and required one-time fasteners are not included; inspect and VIN-confirm those separately.
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Sources for this issue (3)
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.
Common Symptoms
- cold start rattle
- misfire
- check engine light
- reduced power
How to Fix
Full timing chain kit ($1,800-$3,000 at independent) including primary and secondary chains, all tensioners and guides. Switch to 5,000-7,500 mile dexos1 oil intervals. Catastrophic chain skip means cylinder head damage ($4,000+).
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Cloyes 9-0753S three-chain timing set
Variable-valve-timing components are not included; verify VIN, engine code, exact procedure, seals, bolts and ancillary parts before purchase. Professional engine-timing work.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
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.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light with timing correlation codes
- Rattle on cold start
- Rough idle / misfire
- Reduced power
- Engine light flashing under load
How to Fix
Replace all three timing chains, tensioners, and guides (a major job). GM issued Special Coverage Adjustment #11340 (extending warranty to 10 years/120,000 miles on affected engines and requiring ECM reprogramming in some cases). Use the correct oil and change intervals to slow wear.
Sources for this issue (3)
P0009 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0009 mean on a 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 it is documented across 2 models: Vue, Aura.
What are the most common causes of P0009?
The most common causes of P0009 are: 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). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0009 on a Saturn?
Published repair estimates on Saturn range from $1,500 to $4,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0009 on a different make?
View P0009 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.