Throwing cam sensor code (P0017 I think)

[duaneedmonson]

My 2013 Equinox will throw P0017 code that will come and self clear on a reg basis. Engine starts as soon as I turn the key. It's so immediate that I can't hear the starter engage. It idles and cruses at highway speeds as smooth as glass. No detectable noise or rattle to my old ears. Fuel economy and acceleration are the same as when new. Car has 78,000 easy, old man driven miles. Because of the low mileage and no reason to be suspicious I have not been diligent in checking the oil level. Only once did find the oil level low enough for concern, about 3 qts low. That was immediately remedied and the oil changed within 3 days. That was also 5-6000 miles ago. My question is: given that the fault is intermittent and the performance perfect could a cam sensors and VVT solenoids change be worth a try or am I kidding myself? Thanks for your time and consideration. Duane

 

[sdhow]

Three quarts low could have done damage. So many of the valvetrain components operate off of oil pressure. You left out some important info...

What engine do you have...2.4 4 cylinder or 3.6L V6? What are your oil change intervals? What brand and weight of oil do you use?

 

[duaneedmonson]

Three quarts low could have done damage. So many of the valvetrain components operate off of oil pressure. You left out some important info...

What engine do you have...2.4 4 cylinder or 3.6L V6? What are your oil change intervals? What brand and weight of oil do you use?

Thanks for ur response. It's the 2.4 4 cyl. Oil changed when cars info screen calls for it. 5000 mile intervals I think. Last oil change was mobile 1 full syn. Spoke to my mechanic today, he encouraged a sensor and VVT solenoid change before he inspects for timing chain issues. Cost, parts and labor, to do complete timing chain overall is $2100.00. Hopefully the sensor, solenoid change will resolve the fault.

 

[sdhow]

Yeah...I would change the oil before it tells you. I think the factory sets it at like 7,500 miles. I change mine at 4,000 miles.

You can change the sensor and solenoid first, but be prepared for the timing chain and the tensioners and guides. Make sure he uses OE parts or good quality like Cloyes. None of that aftermarket cheap shit. They sell both at RockAuto, depends on what you want to spend.

I only use genuine GM parts.

 

[Tico007]

Are you handy whatsoever? You don’t need to spend that kind of money yet. The code was likely caused by getting extremely low on oil as mentioned. There are some things you can do to mitigate the problems on your own without spending that kind of money.

 

[duaneedmonson]

Thanks. What I've done is change both VVT SOLENOIDS. Tomorrow I'll change the exhaust cam sensor and maybe the intake can sensor. Have also done fresh oil and filter change. After which I'll clear the fault codes and hope they don't return. P0013 and P0014 were the codes, I mistakenly said code P0017.

 

[Tico007]

Have you unblocked the PCV yet? It’s where the problems with this engine start. Fouling the oil, creating pressure, oil consumption, etc.

 

[duaneedmonson]

Have you unblocked the PCV yet? It’s where the problems with this engine start. Fouling the oil, creating pressure, oil consumption, etc.

I have not, but I will. Thankyou