OBD II Codes (P0000 - P0099) | P0008 “Engine Position System Performance - Bank 1”

Meaning:

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0008 stands for “Engine Position System Performance Bank 1.” It may get registered when the car’s primary computer, often referred to as the power control module (PCM), detects that the crankshaft and camshaft are out of sync.
When your car computer detects that the crankshaft and camshaft are out of sync, it may trigger code P0008.
The camshaft sensor sends a signal to the PCM that identifies the right time to fire the fuel injectors (and on some vehicles, fire the spark plugs). To ensure that the engine is timed properly, the PCM tests for misalignment between the camshafts on one bank of the engine and the crankshaft. The PCM may register the trouble code if the camshaft is misplaced relative to the crankshaft’s position.
This DTC could appear in a vehicle that has other related codes such as P0009, P0016, P0017, P0018, and P0019.
Vehicles that are prone to code p0008 include various models of Chevrolet (especially Chevy Traverse), GMC, Cadillac, Buick, and Suzuki.

causes:

The P0008 code can stem from numerous issues that may involve the components responsible for keeping the crankshaft and camshaft in sync. Below are the most common causes for code P0008:

• Loose Stretched timing chain
• Jumped timing
• Slipped reluctor ring on bank 1 camshaft
• Faulty or displaced crankshaft reluctor wheel (select General Motors vehicles have a technical service bulletin for this concern)
• Low engine oil level
• Faulty variable valve timing actuator (phaser)
• Faulty variable valve timing solenoid (oil control valve)

Symptoms:

OBD P0008 shares some of its symptoms with codes like P0009, P0016, P0017, and so on. Its warning signs include:

• Check Engine Light
• Rough running engine
• Poor fuel economy
• Decreased engine performance
• Timing chain noise
• Hard/extended start
• No start

This trouble code can cause the vehicle to be hard to start and run rough. In some cases, the vehicle may not be drivable. It should be addressed as soon as possible.

Effect caused:

Diagnosis:

As with most codes, checking for this error code requires an advanced scan tool and the expertise of a qualified technician to check and re-test the vehicle to verify the error. If the fault persists, then technicians will perform a thorough visual inspection or wiggle test until the error become more persistent.

Solution:

It does one good to note that this typically not a sensor problem, since the ECM can only use good sensor readings to determine whether the engine is in time or not. In other words, if a CMP is bad, it cannot check for good timing between that CMP and the CKP.
That having been said, diagnosing timing problems may best be left to the professionals, particularly if your vehicle is still covered under warranty. Always double check warranty application before opening something as critical as the timing covers. With an up-to-date repair manual, experienced DIYers may be able to diagnose this problem, though the availability of special tools may limit repair ability.

• Depending on the model, at least the top timing cover or the valve cover(s) will have to be removed in order to see the timing marks. Rotate the crankshaft pulley clockwise until it’s timing mark is at 0° or TDC. If you cannot see the camshaft timing marks at all, then you’ll need to rotate the crankshaft another 360°. Once the crankshaft is rotated to TDC and you have the camshaft timing marks in view, you can verify their positions.
• If the camshafts are aligned properly, suspect a crankshaft or camshaft reluctor ring problem, which could be skewing CKP or CMP readings. Further disassembly will be required to verify that reluctor rings are properly aligned to their respective shafts.
• If the camshafts are not aligned properly, suspect a skipped or stretched timing belt or timing chain. Loose or worn timing belt or timing chain tensioners can also cause a misalignment problem. Further disassembly will be required to verify proper belt or chain position, tensioner function, and measure the timing belt or timing chain.
• In case the timing belt or timing chain has skipped a tooth, it will need to be reinstalled properly.
• In case of stretched timing belt or timing chain, it will need to be replaced.
• In case of a worn tensioner, it will need to be replaced.