P0017 on Saturn: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor B
3 Saturn models · 4 documented issues · 4 critical · $600-$4,500 repair
P0017 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)
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.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling or chain-slap noise, especially on cold startup
- Rough running or misfire if chain has jumped time
- Check engine light with camshaft/crankshaft correlation codes
- Engine won't start or runs very poorly after chain skips
How to Fix
Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides with the updated parts at the first sign of rattle, before the chain jumps time. Addressing a startup or cold rattle early prevents a destroyed engine. Maintaining clean oil and regular changes reduces wear.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Cloyes 9-4201S cam timing-chain kit with sprockets and oiler
Confirm VIN/engine and exact kit contents.
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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)
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 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 it is documented across 3 models: Vue, Ion, Aura.
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 Saturn?
Published repair estimates on Saturn range from $600 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 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.