A few different things predominantly cause P0017 in the Hyundai Elantra. It is typically thrown when the Crankshaft Position Sensor and the Camshaft Position Sensor are out of alignment by a certain number of degrees.
This code can cause various issues, such as reduced engine performance, rough idling, and increased emissions.
Quick Info
| Possible Causes | Associated Trouble Code | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Faulty camshaft position sensor | P0017 | Replace the crankshaft position sensor |
| Faulty crankshaft position sensor | P0016, P0335 | Inspect and replace the timing chain or belt |
| Faulty timing chain or belt | No associated trouble code | Inspect and replace timing chain or belt |
| Low engine oil level or pressure | P0011, P0012, P0013, P0014, P0021, P0022, P0023, P0024 | Check and refill engine oil, replace oil pressure sensor if necessary |
| Faulty variable valve timing solenoid | P0010, P0013, P0014, P0020, P0023, P0024 | Replace variable valve timing solenoid |
| Faulty wiring or connections | No associated trouble code | Inspect and repair wiring or connections |
- This table is not exhaustive, and there may be other causes for the P0017 trouble code in the Hyundai Elantra. It is always recommended to consult a professional mechanic for accurate diagnosis and repair.
- P0017 refers to which camshaft position sensor is out of time with the Crankshaft. In this case, sensor “B”. Sensor “A” throws P0016.
P0017 Symptoms: Hyundai Elantra
P0017 should be considered a vital trouble code to diagnose and repair. The crank and cam sensors work in tandem to produce the ideal air/fuel ratio for your engine. When this timing is off, the engine will typically not run (or barely run).
Here are the major symptoms of P0017 in the Elantra:
- Failure to start
- Rattle coming from the motor
- The service engine soon light
- Engine poorly running
P0017 Causes and Solutions: Hyundai Elantra
Here are the most common causes of P0017 in the Elantra, as well as diagnostic advice and resources to further explore. It’ll either be a wiring issue or a physical problem (bad reluctor or timing chain jumped).
Wiring Issues
One of the most common causes of P0017 in any vehicle is wiring issues. You’ll want to inspect the wiring harness for visible damage.
A lot of the harness leading to and from the Crank/Cam sensors is going to be exposed to hot exhaust and vibration. This is a great place to start diagnosing P0017 in your Elantra. It’s quick and easy to do this before moving on to the sensors themselves.
Make sure to check the harness where it plugs into both sensors as well.
How to Diagnose Vehicle Wiring Problems (AA1 Car)
Bad Sensors
After examining the wiring harness, it would be time to check the sensors themselves. Using a simple voltage tester, you’ll be able to determine whether or not they are functioning correctly. We linked to a great video showing you how to do so directly below.
How to test a crankshaft or camshaft sensor (YouTube)
Crankshaft Position Sensor (Amazon Low Price)
Camshaft Position Sensor (Amazon)
Timing
The timing chain or belt will throw cause P0017 to throw. This will happen when it has stretched or jumped a tooth or two.
If it jumps more than a few teeth, the odds are that the engine itself will not run at all.
If you’ve recently changed the timing chain, it may very well have not been aligned properly on install.
Many manufacturers (particularly Japanese Automakers, such as Hyundai) have very strict timing chain service intervals. If it’s been too long, it may jump a few teeth. Even the slightest misalignment can cause P0017.
Timing Chain Jumped Symptoms and Diagnosis
Crank or Cam Tone/Reluctor Ring
The Crankshaft Sensor is going to use a tone or reluctor ring to determine the position of the Crank. This ring uses notches that are scanned by the Crank Sensor in order to get an accurate position.
If this ring fails, the Elantra will not be able to get an exact crank position. The camshaft typically will have a ring that provides the same function.
Often when a reluctor ring goes bad, it’ll rattle quite a lot. That is a very good indication that there is an issue with it.
Diagnosis of P0017 the Code in the Hyundai Elantra
We will focus on three primary methods for diagnosing the P0017 code: using an OBD2 scanner, conducting a visual inspection, and performing mechanical testing.
Using an OBD2 Scanner
An OBD2 scanner is an essential tool for diagnosing P0017. It helps you read and clear the error codes stored in your vehicle’s engine control module (ECM). To use the scanner, follow these steps:
- Locate your vehicle’s OBD2 port, usually under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- Connect the OBD2 scanner’s connector to the port.
- Turn on the ignition, but do not start the engine.
- Press the “Read” or “Scan” button on the scanner and wait for the results.
- The scanner will display the P0017 code if it detected the error.
Visual Inspection
A visual inspection can identify possible causes of the P0017 code, such as damaged wiring or loose connectors. To conduct a visual inspection, follow these steps:
- Turn off the engine and open the hood.
- Locate the camshaft position sensor on your Hyundai Elantra, typically near the top of the engine.
- Inspect the wiring harness and connectors for damage or corrosion.
- Check for any visible damage on the camshaft position sensor itself.
If any issues are found during the visual inspection, repairing or replacing the damaged components may resolve the P0017 code.
Mechanical Testing
Mechanical issues, such as a stretched timing chain or worn timing chain tensioner, can also cause the P0017 code. To check for mechanical issues, you may need to consult a professional mechanic or use specialized equipment. Some mechanical testing methods include:
- Measuring the timing chain’s stretch using a ruler or timing chain wear indicator tool.
- Inspecting the timing chain tensioner for wear or damage.
- Checking the alignment of the crankshaft and camshaft sprockets using a straight edge or specialized alignment tool.
If any mechanical issues are found, repairs or replacements may be necessary to resolve the P0017 code.
Repairing the Three Most Common Issues
Here are the three most common repairs that will fix P0017. They are not specific to any one model year Elantra. You should try and find a guide for your specific engine and year if you’re going to attempt these.
Replacing the Timing Chain
A worn or stretched timing chain could be causing the P0017 trouble code. It can affect the correlation between the camshaft and crankshaft positions. To replace the timing chain:
- Disconnect your vehicle’s battery.
- Remove engine components to access the timing chain cover
- Remove timing chain cover, exposing the timing chain and gears.
- Use a chain holder tool to prevent the chain from disassembling.
- Replace the timing chain, chain tensioner, and guides as necessary.
- Reassemble the engine components and reconnect the battery.
Installing New Camshaft Position Sensor
A faulty camshaft position sensor could be the cause of the P0017 code. To replace it:
- Locate the camshaft position sensor, generally found near the front of the engine.
- Disconnect the electrical connector from the sensor.
- Remove the mounting bolt and gently wiggle the sensor from its housing.
- Install the new sensor, tightening the bolt to the recommended torque.
- Reconnect the electrical connector.
Replacing the Crankshaft Position Sensor
If the crankshaft position sensor is faulty or damaged, it can also trigger the P0017 code. To replace the sensor:
- Locate the crankshaft position sensor, usually near the front of the engine or near the transmission bell housing.
- Disconnect the electrical connector from the sensor.
- Remove the mounting bolt and gently wiggle the sensor from its mounting location.
- Install the new sensor, tightening the bolt to the recommended torque.
- Reconnect the electrical connector.