Error P0008 – how to fix?

Code definition P0008

The code P0008 is related to the mechanical timing of your engine.

It can also be accompanied by the codes: P0009, P0010, P0011, P0012, P0013, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019 and many others.

What does the code P0008 mean

P0008 is a general OBD-II code indicating a problem with the engine control module (ECM) detecting changes in the mechanical timing between the crankshaft and bank 1 camshaft.

The ECM uses sensors to detect the position of the crankshaft and camshaft (s). Based on the signals from these sensors, the ECM controls the ignition and fuel timing at various speeds and loads. The code will illuminate the Check Engine light and possibly reduce engine performance.

What is the cause of the P0008 code?

The Engine Positions System Performance Bank 1 code can have several reasons:

• Out of sync engine timing
• Worn timing components (chains, gears, guides)
• Malfunctions of the crankshaft sensor or the camshaft
• Cable breakage
• Outdated ECM software
• Internal ECM failure

What are the symptoms of the P0008 code?

Code P0008 will illuminate the Check Engine light on the instrument panel / dashboard. This is likely to affect:

• The quality of the engine idling
• Fuel economy
• Overall engine performance

How does the mechanic diagnose the P0008 code?

P0008 is properly diagnosed with an advanced scan tool capable of reading factory sensors and codes (not just one from your local auto parts store) to get started. A skilled technician can read the data from the scanning tool to determine when and where the problem has occurred or if it still persists. It can clear the code from the ECM and perform a road test by monitoring data from a scan tool to see if the fault recurs or if it occurs intermittently.

If the fault is intermittent then a visual inspection or a wiring test may give more results. Otherwise, the vehicle will have to keep running until the problem becomes more persistent.

If the fault returns immediately, a scanning tool and information from expert sources should help narrow down the problem. Otherwise, it will be necessary to use the digital voltage range to monitor the sensor signals. These signals will indicate what the ECM sees and whether they are correct. Removal of the engine front timing cover may be required for timing verification.

Based on the test results, possible code removal and road test during data monitoring, further diagnostics may be required. Diagnosis will require a number of tools such as:

• Advanced scanning tool to read ECM data values
• Digital voltage meter with attachments
• Essential hand tools for accessing sensors and timing components

The most common errors when diagnosing the P0008 code

It often happens that inexperienced mechanics on the basis of this code assume that the engine requires a new timing chain or belt. Without performing the diagnostic procedure, the vehicle owner may spend several hundred dollars not to fix the problem.

The code can be solved with a simple computer learning or reprogramming procedure. I’ve seen vehicles come in from other repair shops after spending hundreds of dollars just to fix the problem in less than an hour.

Having a proper diagnosis is always recommended before replacing parts based on the code alone.

How serious is the P0008 code?

Fault code P0008 may cause your vehicle to have:

• Lower fuel consumption
• Idle instability
• Reduced power
• Possible engine damage in the future
• Inability to pass exhaust emission tests

A qualified technician can diagnose the problem with the appropriate tools and can verify these potential problems and the impact on other systems.

What repairs can fix the code P0008?

The most common procedure for repairing the P0008 code is as follows:

• Connect a professional scanning tool to check if the code exists.
• Perform your research from professional sources for code-driven testing and value.
• Check for other fault codes that may be related to the problem and possibly clear the fault codes to see which fault codes will return.
• Analyze ECM scan tool data related to code and vehicle road test when analyzing ECM scan tool data. Verify that the P0008 code returns or if symptoms are present.
• Visually check all the above-mentioned items (noises, wiring, etc.).
• Continue to diagnose the problem with the special tools mentioned above if the problem seems to repeat.
• The signals and wiring from sensors require analysis with a digital voltage range to determine where the problem is.
• If the scan tool signals and values ​​are within specification, then the timing / bonnet removal may be required.
• Check that the timing marks on the crankshaft and camshaft gears match.
• Check the condition of the timing chain / belt and guides for signs of wear.
• Replace the defective component found in the above tests.

Additional considerations for code P0008

The engine timing between the crankshaft and camshaft (s) is critical to engine performance and smooth operation. This code usually means that the timing is not aligned, which causes performance issues.

The code is most commonly found on Chevrolet, Subaru and Suzuki vehicles, although I have seen it on other brands as well. On vehicles with higher mileage, I usually suspect a stretch in the timing chain or wear of the timing chain guides, resulting in a minor timing shift.

For vehicles with lower mileage, I suspect a problem with the ECM software update or a weak crankshaft or camshaft sensor signal giving incorrect signals.

In all of these scenarios, an experienced technician with the right tools and professional resources will be able to identify the real blame behind the P0008 code.