Trouble codes › P0008

P0008 Engine Position System Performance (Bank 1)

Engine timing

P0008 means bank 1's camshafts have drifted out of time with the crankshaft, most often from stretched timing chains (well known on GM 3.6L V6 engines).

The engine computer compares the crankshaft and camshaft positions and sees bank 1's cams out of their normal relationship. On GM V6 engines (3.0, 3.6) and some others it's a well-known sign of stretched timing chains.

Can I keep driving? Yes, but get it fixed soon.

Drivable for now if it runs normally, but don't put it off: a badly stretched chain can jump a tooth and damage the engine. Stop if it rattles loudly or runs poorly.

Common causes

  1. Stretched timing chains (most common on GM 3.6L V6 engines)
  2. Worn timing chain guides or tensioners
  3. Low oil level or long oil-change intervals (a big contributor to chain wear)
  4. A cam phaser problem

Symptoms

  • Check-engine light, often with P0009, P0016 or P0017
  • Rattle at start-up
  • Rough running or reduced power (sometimes none)

Common on: Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Malibu, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia

Known problems: GM 3.6L V6 timing chain stretch · GM 2.4L Ecotec oil consumption and timing chain wear

What to check first

  1. Check the oil level and condition.
  2. Look up service bulletins for your engine: GM has specific procedures for P0008/P0009.
  3. With a scan tool, check the cam/crank correlation values against your service information's limits.
  4. Timing chain replacement is a big job; get a quote and confirm the diagnosis first.

What does P0008 mean on your vehicle?

The likely cause depends on your engine. iRepair researches your exact year, make, model and engine (service bulletins, recalls and owner reports) and tells you what to check first. Your first 3 questions are free.

Ask iRepair about P0008

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Related codes

General guidance for P0008 on most vehicles. Some makers use the same code a little differently; confirm in the service information for your vehicle, put safety first, and see a professional when in doubt.