What is the code P0017 on a 2007 Lexus ES 350?

An initial takeaway: P0017 means a Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1) issue on the 2007 Lexus ES 350. In practical terms, the engine’s crank sensor data and cam sensor data aren’t lining up within the PCM’s expected tolerance, signaling a potential timing or sensor/wiring problem that should be diagnosed and addressed promptly.

What P0017 Means for the ES 350

P0017 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating a mismatch between the crankshaft position (CKP) data and the camshaft position (CMP) data for Bank 1. On the ES 350’s 2GR-FE V6 engine, this typically points to a timing reference issue or a fault in the sensors or their wiring. Because Bank 1 contains the engine’s single critical timing reference, misalignment can affect idle, power, and overall engine performance. While sensor faults can trigger the code, more serious timing problems—such as a stretched timing chain or a faulty tensioner—can cause true mechanical timing errors that demand immediate attention.

Common Causes

The most frequent culprits behind P0017 in a 2007 ES 350 involve a combination of timing hardware, sensors, and related wiring. The following list highlights the typical sources repair shops check first.

• Timing chain wear or slack (including stretched chain) or a failing chain tensioner/guide, leading to incorrect timing.


• Incorrect timing that resulted from past maintenance or reassembly errors during a timing service.


• Faulty crankshaft position (CKP) sensor or camshaft position (CMP) sensor, or damaged sensor wiring and connectors.


• Wiring harness damage, loose connectors, corrosion, or poor grounding in CKP/CMP circuits.


• Issues with the variable valve timing (VVT) system, such as a stuck or dirty VVT solenoid or oil control issues affecting timing adjustment.


• Low or dirty engine oil or oil pressure problems that impair VVT operation and timing control.


• Engine control module (PCM) software concerns or miscalibration in timing data interpretation (less common).

In essence, the leading suspects involve the timing chain system and the sensors, with electrical wiring as a frequent secondary factor. A mis-timing situation can be caused by wear or improper service, so a thorough check is essential.

Symptoms and Diagnostic Cues

When P0017 is present, owners may notice a range of symptoms that guide the diagnostic process. The following indicators are commonly observed in the ES 350 and help technicians determine whether the issue is mechanical or sensor-related.

• Illumination of the check engine light, often accompanied by a P0017 code and possibly related codes such as P0016.


• Rough idle, misfires, or noticeable hesitation during acceleration.


• Loss of power or reduced engine performance, especially at higher loads.


• Difficulty starting or intermittent stalling, particularly at idle.


• Unusual engine noise (timing chain rattle) in severe cases, though this is not always present.


• Reduced fuel economy or erratic engine behavior.

Because these symptoms overlap with other issues, proper diagnostic steps are essential to confirm whether the root cause is timing-related or sensor/wiring-based.

Diagnostic and Repair Steps

To pinpoint the cause of P0017, a structured diagnostic approach is typically followed. The list below outlines a practical sequence technicians use to verify the problem and determine the correct repair path.

• Verify the codes with an advanced scan tool and review freeze-frame data to understand engine conditions at the time the code was stored.


• Check for related codes (e.g., P0016) and review live CKP/CMP sensor data to assess correlation accuracy.


• Inspect CKP and CMP sensors and their wiring/connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose connections; test sensor resistance and signal integrity as specified in the service manual.


• Evaluate the VVT system: test the oil pressure and the operation of VVT solenoids; listen for solenoid failure or stiction; ensure the oil passages are not blocked.


• Perform a mechanical timing inspection: remove the necessary covers to verify timing marks, chain tension, and tensioner/guide wear; confirm the engine is timed to the manufacturer specification.


• If timing is out of spec, retime the engine or replace worn components (timing chain, tensioner, guides) as required; replace any faulty sensors if confirmed by testing.


• Clear codes, perform a road test, and re-scan to confirm that P0017 and any related codes have not returned.

Because P0017 can indicate a true timing problem, repairs that involve timing components are typically more involved and may require specialized tools and expertise. If you’re not experienced with timing work, it is strongly advised to involve a trained automotive technician.

Repair and Maintenance Considerations

When the root cause is mechanical timing, the repair may include significant parts replacement and a timing retiming procedure. The following considerations guide owners through typical scenarios the shop may present.

• Replace timing chain components (chain, tensioner, and guides) if wear or slack is detected.


• Replace faulty CKP or CMP sensors, and repair or replace wiring/connectors as needed.


• Clean or replace clogged VVT solenoids and verify oil flow to the VVT system; address any oil supply issues.


• Re-timing the engine to the correct specification and performing any required PCM adaptation or reprogramming if recommended by the service manual.


• Ensure fresh, clean engine oil and the correct viscosity for the VVT system; perform an oil change if the engine has accumulated significant use or contamination.

Note: Given the potential for severe engine damage if timing is compromised, repairs are typically more time- and cost-intensive than typical sensor faults. A professional diagnosis is often the best path to avoid misdiagnosis and further complications.

Summary

P0017 on a 2007 Lexus ES 350 signifies a Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation issue on Bank 1. The most common causes are timing chain problems (wear, tensioner/guide failure, or incorrect installation) and sensor or wiring faults in the CKP/CMP circuits, with VVT and oil-related factors as important contributors. A systematic diagnostic approach—covering sensor integrity, wiring, VVT function, and the mechanical timing chain—will determine whether the fix is a sensor replacement, a VVT service, or a full timing-chain repair. Timely attention is essential to prevent potential engine damage and to restore proper performance. If in doubt, consult a qualified technician who can perform the necessary timing checks and retiming if required.

What is the code P0017 on a Lexus ES 350?

The P0017 error code means there might be an issue with your engine's camshaft and crankshaft. These two vital components must be perfectly synchronized for your car's engine to perform at the optimum level.

How much does it cost to fix a P0017 code?

The repair cost for a P0017 code can range from around $200 to over $3,000, depending on the cause, which can be a simple sensor replacement or a more complex timing chain issue. A basic crankshaft or camshaft sensor replacement might cost about $200, while more severe problems like a stretched or broken timing chain could exceed $1,000 or even $2,000 or more. 
This video explains how to diagnose and fix the P0017 code: 1mcar PROblemsYouTube · Sep 7, 2023
Estimated repair costs by issue

• Crankshaft or camshaft sensor replacement: Expect to pay around $200 to $500, including labor. For a DIY repair, the cost of the sensor itself is typically between $15 and $150. 
• Timing chain/belt replacement: This is a more extensive and expensive repair. Costs can range from $1,000 to over $3,000, depending on the vehicle. 
• Other potential repairs: The P0017 code can also be triggered by issues like a faulty VVT solenoid or wiring problems. These repairs will have their own associated costs, which can add to the total bill. 

Factors influencing cost

• Vehicle make and model: Luxury or high-end vehicles may have higher repair costs than standard models. 
• Complexity of the repair: The specific part that needs to be replaced and how difficult it is to access will significantly impact the final price. 
• Labor rates: Labor costs can vary depending on your location and the shop you choose. 

How do I fix the code P0017?

To fix code P0017, start with the simplest checks: perform an engine oil and filter change and clear the code. If the issue persists, inspect the camshaft position sensor, its wiring, and the variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid for faults or clogs. If the problem is still unresolved, the timing chain or belt and its components (tensioners, guides, and timing marks) need to be checked for proper alignment and wear, as this is a more serious and complex issue, explains CarParts.com. 
1. Start with oil and code reset 
This video demonstrates how to change your engine oil and reset the engine code: 57snondaYouTube · Dec 23, 2020

• Change the oil and filter: Low-quality or low-level engine oil can cause VVT problems. A fresh oil change can often fix this. 
• Clear the code: After the oil change, use an OBD2 scanner to clear the code. Some issues may only require a code reset after maintenance is complete, says PartsAvatar.ca and AutoZone.com. 

2. Check the sensors and solenoids 
You can watch this video to learn how to diagnose the sensors and solenoids for P0017 code: 57sHVAC Mechanic YouTube · Sep 1, 2024

• Inspect the sensor wiring: Look for any damage or corrosion in the wiring and connectors for the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors, and the oil control valve (VVT solenoid). 
• Clean the VVT solenoid: The VVT solenoid has a screen that can get clogged with sludge. Carefully remove, clean, and test the solenoid for proper operation, suggests YouTube and Reddit. 
• Test or replace the sensors: If the wiring is good, test the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors. If the engine was running poorly before the code, it's a good idea to replace the sensors. It's often best to use an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part, and a relearn procedure may be needed afterward, explains this YouTube video and this YouTube video. 

3. Inspect the mechanical timing 
This video explains how to inspect the mechanical timing for a P0017 code: 59sAutomotive Diagnosis: Cars Repair &Training GuidesYouTube · Jun 11, 2022

• Check timing marks: Verify that the timing marks on the camshafts and crankshaft are aligned correctly. A slipped or stretched timing belt or chain is a common cause of this code, according to this YouTube video and this YouTube video.
• **Inspect 

What does it mean when the P0017 sensor says your engine is bad?

The camshaft, crankshaft, and sparks all need to be working in perfect sync for the engine to function properly. The P0017 error code indicates that there is a problem with the synchronization of these parts. The error code P0017 specifically refers to Bank 1 Sensor B.