P0008 code meaning
Engine Position System Performance Bank 1
Powertrain system Generic code P00xx codes Check engine light
What P0008 means
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.
P0008 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor8 to 20 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P0008
- Check engine light on
- Timing chain rattle, especially at cold start
- Loss of power or rough running
- Often stored together with P0016 to P0019
Common causes of P0008
- Most likelyPrimary or timing chain stretched
- PossibleChain tensioner worn or loose
- PossibleTiming drive fitted incorrectly after an engine repair
- Less likelyCrankshaft reluctor wheel slipped
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Timing chainTiming chain tensionerCrankshaft reluctor wheelCrankshaft position sensor
What each part of P0008 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 0 | Area: fuel and air metering and auxiliary emission controls. |
| 08 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0008 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P0008
What does P0008 mean?
P0008 means "Engine Position System Performance Bank 1". The engine control module learns how far each camshaft of bank 1 is offset from the crankshaft and compares this with a reference. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0008?
Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.
Will P0008 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0008 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P0008 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 8 to 20 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0008 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.