What Does Code P0008 Mean?
- P0008 definition: Engine Position System Performance Bank 1
- Issue Severity: SEVERE – Extended driving with this code can cause internal engine damage.
- Repair Urgency: Fix this code immediately.
- Diagnosis: This trouble code can cause the vehicle to be hard to start and run rough. In some cases, the vehicle may not be driveable. It should be addressed as soon as possible.
In order for the engine to run smoothly and efficiently, it has to know exactly where the camshaft and crankshaft are in its rotation. It does this by monitoring them using the Camshaft Position Sensor(s) and Crankshaft Position Sensor. If the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects that the bank 1 camshaft and crankshaft are not in the correct position, it will trigger code P0008.
P0008 Causes
- Stretched timing chain
- Jumped timing
- Slipped reluctor ring on the crankshaft
- Slipped reluctor ring on bank 1 camshaft
- Faulty timing chain tensioner
P0008 Symptoms
- Check Engine Light
- Rough running engine
- Poor fuel economy
- Decreased engine performance
- Timing chain noise
- Hard/extended start
- No start
How Do I Fix Code P0008?
With a P0008 code, the first step is to get it properly diagnosed to figure out what is causing the malfunction related to the engine’s timing. Using the live data function of the FIXD sensor and app allows you to read and analyze engine data to properly diagnose a P0008 code.
If the sensors are all reading correctly and you’re not comfortable further diagnosing this issue at home, we recommend finding a RepairPal-certified shop to pinpoint the problem and give an accurate estimate for repairs.
These shops can not only help you figure out what’s going wrong before you waste time and money on the wrong parts, but they also offer a minimum 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty and stand behind all their estimates with guaranteed fair pricing.
> Find a RepairPal Certified Shop Near You
How Much Does It Cost to Fix Code P0008?
If you take your car to a shop for diagnosis, most shops will start with an hour of “diag time” (the time spent in labor diagnosing your specific issue). Depending on the shop’s labor rate, this typically costs somewhere between $75-$150. Many, if not most, shops will apply this diagnosis fee to any required repairs if you have them perform the repairs for you. From there, a shop will be able to give you an accurate estimate for repairs to fix your P0008 code.
Possible Repair Costs for P0008
When it comes to making repairs associated with the P0008 code, one or more of the below repairs may be needed to solve the underlying issue. For each possible repair, the estimated cost of repair includes the cost of the relevant parts and the cost of labor required to make the repair.
- Timing chain $600-$1200
- Reluctor ring $200-$600
DIY Steps to Diagnose Code P0008
If you’d like to try to fix code P0008 at home without throwing money at parts, you’ll want to follow the steps below for proper diagnosis. Complete diagnosis may require some specialized equipment beyond what the FIXD Sensor can provide, but for the most part, this diagnosis and repair can be attempted by beginner DIYers.
DIY difficulty level: Expert
This repair should not be attempted by beginner DIYers.
Tools/parts needed (our top picks from Amazon):
- FIXD
- Basic Hand Tools
- Vehicle-Specific Service Manual
- Oscilloscope
STEP 1: USE FIXD TO ENSURE NO OTHER ENGINE CODES ARE PRESENT.
Scan your vehicle to verify P0008 is the only code present. If other codes are present, they must be addressed first.
STEP 2: CHECK FREEZE FRAME DATA.
Check the freeze frame data in order to pinpoint the issue.
STEP 3: COMPARE SENSOR VOLTAGES.
This code requires an oscilloscope for proper diagnosis. Not all shops are equipped with this but many are. Using the O-scope (oscilloscope) you would connect to the signal wire for the crankshaft position sensor and bank 1 camshaft position sensor (also bank 2 if so equipped) and compare the 2 or 3 to each other. If they are offset from their proper locations a stretched timing chain, jumped timing, or a slipped reluctor ring is the issue. Replace the necessary parts to resolve the concern.
STEP 4: CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL.
If at this point the vehicle is still setting the same code, you may have a more serious problem with your car’s oxygen sensor system, and you should bring the vehicle to a certified shop to have further diagnostic work performed.
Common P0008 Diagnosis Mistakes
Not checking for TSBs Before starting diagnostics
Still Need Help Fixing Code P0008?
If you’ve followed the steps above and are still experiencing issues with the oxygen sensor system and code P0008, please contact the FIXD Mechanic Hotline if you’re a FIXD Premium subscriber or find a RepairPal certified shop near you to get the right repairs at a fair price.
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Lifelong automotive enthusiast with a soft spot for offroading. Wrencher turned writer, but I still love to tinker on just about anything with an engine. Dream car: tie between a ‘71 Hemi ‘Cuda and a ’91 GMC Syclone. #GirlDad #SaveTheManuals
