P0017 on Mazda: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor B
2 Mazda models · 3 documented issues · 2 critical · $800-$3,500 repair
P0017 on Mazda by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Ford-derived 3.7L Duratec V6 in first-generation CX-9 suffers from timing chain stretch, typically between 80,000-120,000 miles. Chain guides and tensioners wear, causing timing to retard and triggering check engine codes. If not addressed, can lead to jumped timing and severe engine damage.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling noise on cold start from timing chain area
- Check engine light with P0016, P0017, or P0018 cam/crank correlation codes
- Rough idle and intermittent stalling
- Engine performance noticeably degraded at higher mileage
How to Fix
Replace timing chain, guides, tensioners, and cam phasers as a complete kit. This is a labor-intensive job requiring partial engine disassembly. Recommended to replace water pump and thermostat while engine is apart.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Melling 3-1047S professional timing setOEMMelling 3-1047S
Early V6 timing-set branch for 2007 3.5L, 2008-2010 3.7L and qualifying 2011 vehicles produced through December 14, 2010 Fitment/availability: Direct indexed product page identifies Melling 3-1047S for 2007-2011 CX-9, with 2007 3.5L, 200…
- Melling 3-1049SC professional timing setOEMMelling 3-1049SC
Late V6 timing-set branch for qualifying 2011 vehicles produced after December 14, 2010 through 2015 3.7L Fitment/availability: Direct indexed product page identifies Melling 3-1049SC for late-2011 through 2015 CX-9 3.7L, explicitly from…
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Owner tips & cautions
- TipUse full synthetic 5W-20 oil and change every 5,000 miles to prolong chain life
- TipReplace water pump and thermostat during timing chain job - saves labor cost. CX9Club.com timing chain thread
Sources for this issue (1)
The second-generation CX-9 with the 2.5L turbocharged SkyActiv-G engine can develop timing chain stretch, producing a rattle or whine at startup that may persist for several seconds. Unlike the first-gen 3.7L V6 issue, the 2.5T chain stretch is typically less severe but still requires attention. The issue is linked to extended oil change intervals and use of non-synthetic oil allowing chain guide and tensioner wear.
Common Symptoms
- Rattle or whine at cold startup lasting 2-10 seconds
- Check engine light
- Reduced engine performance
- Rough idle after cold start
- Metallic ticking noise from engine
How to Fix
Use full synthetic 0W-20 oil and change at 5,000-mile intervals (not the 7,500-10,000 Mazda suggests for normal driving). If chain rattle is present, the timing chain, tensioner, and guides should be replaced. Mazda has issued TSBs for software updates to address cold-start rattle in some model years. Inspect during valve cover gasket or cam seal service.
Sources for this issue (2)
The 3.0L Duratec V6 uses two timing chains, one per cylinder head, each with a hydraulic tensioner and plastic guide rails. The tensioners bleed down when the engine sits, so the classic first symptom is a rattle or slap from the front of the engine for the first one to thirty seconds after a cold start, fading as oil pressure builds and re-extends the tensioner. Worn guides, a tensioner that no longer holds pressure, or a stretched chain let that slack persist, and because the 3.0L Duratec is an interference design, a chain that jumps time can put valves into pistons. Neglected oil changes accelerate this: sludge starves the tensioners and wears the guides. This is engine-code specific - it does not apply to the 2.0L Zetec, 2.3L or 2.5L four-cylinder Tributes, which use different valvetrain drive designs and failure modes.
Common Symptoms
- Rattle or slap from the front of the engine for a few seconds after a cold start
- Rough idle
- Reduced power
- Check engine light with camshaft/crankshaft correlation codes
- Metallic debris found in the oil pan
How to Fix
First isolate accessory-drive tensioner noise from an internal timing rattle. For a confirmed 3.0L timing-drive fault, replace both chains, tensioners, guides and the front-cover sealing components as a complete repair; inspect oil pressure and sprockets while open.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Cloyes 9-0708S complete timing-chain kit$205
2001-2006 and 2008-2011 Mazda Tribute 3.0L V6 only. The direct listing includes two chains, tensioners, guides and crank sprocket; 2007 is not listed and front-cover gaskets/seals remain separate.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
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 Mazda?
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 Mazda it is documented across 2 models: CX-9, Tribute.
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 Mazda?
Published repair estimates on Mazda range from $800 to $3,500 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 P0017 on a different make?
View P0017 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.