P0017 on Buick: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor B
4 Buick models · 4 documented issues · 4 critical · $300-$4,500 repair
P0017 on Buick by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The GM 3.6L LLT (built 2007-2011) and LFX (built 2012 on) "High Feature" V6 in LaCrosse, Enclave, Acadia, Traverse, CTS, Cadillac SRX, and many others suffers timing chain stretch typically between 80,000-150,000 miles. Root cause is oil-related — original OLM intervals (up to 12,000 miles) starved the chain of fresh oil. Excessive oil consumption (LLT also has a known consumption issue) accelerates wear.
Common Symptoms
- cold start rattle
- check engine light
- extended cranking
- misfire
- low oil between changes
How to Fix
Full timing chain kit ($2,000-$4,500 incl. labor) — both primary and secondary chains, all tensioners and guides. Switch to 5,000-7,500 mile oil intervals with full-synthetic dexos1 5W-30. LLT engines may also need PCV valve replacement to reduce oil consumption (TSB 10-06-01-007).
Sources for this issue (2)
The 3.6L high-feature V6 in 2008-2013 Enclaves is prone to timing chain stretch and worn chain guides/tensioners, sometimes appearing as early as 40,000-60,000 miles. As the chain elongates, valve timing drifts, triggering misfires and a rattle at idle/startup; if a chain jumps a tooth it can bend valves and cause catastrophic engine damage. GM acknowledged premature chain wear under certain driving conditions with the vehicle's original oil change intervals and issued Special Coverage Adjustment #11340C extending the chain warranty to 10 years/120,000 miles, but for the Enclave it covers only the 2009 model year.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling noise at idle or cold startup
- Check engine light
- Engine misfire / rough running
- Reduced engine power message
- Metal shavings in oil
How to Fix
Replace the timing chains, guides, and tensioners (a full front-of-engine job). On a 2009 Enclave, GM Special Coverage #11340C made the chain replacement free up to 10yr/120k mi (or, if the chain did not need replacing, an ECM reprogram); otherwise it is an out-of-pocket repair. Keeping oil changes current and using correct-spec oil slows wear.
Sources for this issue (1)
The 2013-2015 Encore generated hundreds of NHTSA complaints for engine stalling and abrupt loss of power, including incidents at highway speed where the vehicle decelerated unexpectedly. Owners report rough idle, hesitation, misfires, and the "engine power reduced" message, often traced to sensor faults, throttle body issues, or turbo-related underboost. Multiple reports note the problem recurring even after throttle body or sensor replacement, creating a serious safety hazard in traffic.
Common Symptoms
- Stalling while driving
- Sudden deceleration at highway speed
- Engine power reduced message
- Rough idle
- Hesitation / misfire
- Shaking
How to Fix
Diagnose with a scan tool to isolate the trigger (camshaft/crankshaft position sensors, throttle body, turbo underboost, or misfire). Common repairs include throttle body replacement, sensor replacement, and addressing turbo or PCV faults. On 2013 Encores with the 1.4L turbo and 6-speed automatic, GM Special Coverage 25160 had dealers reprogram the ECM and TCM to fix reduced engine power, hesitation or stall, covered for 6 years or 100,000 miles from the in-service date (now expired for most cars); ask a dealer whether the update was done.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (1)
The 2.0L Turbo LHU (2011-2013) and LTG (2014+) in Regal — and shared LaCrosse, Cadillac ATS/CTS — develops timing chain stretch around 80,000-130,000 miles. Symptoms: cold-start rattle, P0008/P0017 codes, eventual loss of cam timing. Aggravated by extended oil intervals and stop-start fleet use.
Common Symptoms
- cold start rattle
- misfire
- check engine light
- reduced power
How to Fix
Full timing chain kit including chain, tensioner, guides, sprockets — $1,800-$3,500 at an independent shop. Stick to 5,000-7,500 mile oil intervals with dexos1 full-synthetic 5W-30. Carbon-clean intake valves at the same service ($300-$500) since LHU/LTG are direct-injection.
Sources for this issue (3)
P0017 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 P0017 mean on a Buick?
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 Buick it is documented across 4 models: LaCrosse, Enclave, Encore, Regal.
What are the most common causes of P0017?
The most common causes of P0017 are: 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. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0017 on a Buick?
Published repair estimates on Buick range from $300 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.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.