Powertrain, generic · Fuel and air metering, auxiliary emission controls
P0008 Engine Position System Performance Bank 1
Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleRequired
Limp modeNo
The engine control module learns how far each camshaft of bank 1 is offset from the crankshaft and compares this with a reference. P0008 is set when both camshafts of this bank are shifted in the same direction beyond a threshold. That points to the drive shared by the bank: a stretched primary timing chain, a worn tensioner, an idler gear or a crankshaft reluctor wheel that has slipped. A single faulty camshaft phaser does not set this code, because it affects only one camshaft.
Likely causes
Primary or timing chain stretched
Chain tensioner worn or loose
Timing drive fitted incorrectly after an engine repair
Crankshaft reluctor wheel slipped
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Timing chain rattle, especially at cold start
- Loss of power or rough running
- Often stored together with P0016 to P0019
Repair estimate
DifficultyShop_onlyWorkshop job
Parts and labour€1,500–4,000
Time8–20 h
Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.
Parts involved
timing chaintiming chain tensionercrankshaft reluctor wheelcrankshaft position sensor
Related codes
References: law.cornell.edu, saabwisonline.com, static.nhtsa.gov, static.nhtsa.gov.