Facing persistent OBDII codes P0014 and P0017 on your 2.2 Ecotec engine can be frustrating. Many Chevy HHR owners encounter these trouble codes, even after replacing several components. Let’s break down these codes and explore effective troubleshooting steps, potentially involving a detailed inspection and component disassembly to pinpoint the root cause.
Understanding codes P0014 (“Camshaft Position – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 1”) and P0017 (“Crankshaft Position – Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor B”) is crucial. They often indicate a timing discrepancy between the crankshaft and camshaft. While you’ve already replaced camshaft and crankshaft position sensors, along with solenoids and spark plugs, the issue might lie deeper within the engine’s timing system or related wiring.
One area to investigate is the camshaft harness. A faulty or damaged harness can disrupt the signals between the sensors and the engine control module (ECM), triggering these codes. Carefully inspect the wiring and connectors for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Disassemble the connector if necessary to check for internal corrosion or damage that might not be visible externally. Cleaning and securely reconnecting these harnesses can sometimes resolve intermittent issues.
If the wiring checks out, the next logical step is to consider the timing chain itself. Over time, timing chains can stretch, leading to timing inaccuracies and these error codes. A stretched timing chain throws off the correlation between the crankshaft and camshaft positions. Diagnosing a stretched timing chain might require further disassembly to inspect the chain and guides for wear or damage. A timing chain replacement kit might be necessary to rectify this mechanical issue and eliminate the P0014 and P0017 codes.
While sensor replacement is a common first step, persistent P0014 and P0017 codes on a 2.2 Ecotec engine often point towards deeper timing-related problems. Thoroughly inspecting the camshaft harness and considering timing chain wear, potentially involving component disassembly for closer examination, are crucial steps in effectively resolving these OBDII code issues and restoring your Chevy HHR’s engine performance. Seeking advice from experienced mechanics familiar with 2.2 Ecotec engines can also provide valuable insights and guidance.
