BMW P0017

Crank to exhaust cam correlation on BMW N47/N57 — the rear-mounted timing chain has stretched, partner code to P0016.

BMW P0017 — Crank to exhaust cam correlation on BMW N47/N57 — the rear-mounted timing chain has stretched, partner code to P0016. Typical UK independent garage cost: £1400–£3500.

What actually causes P0017 on a BMW

On N47/N57 diesels, P0017 stored alongside P0016 confirms the chain has stretched enough to drift exhaust cam timing past correction. The engine and gearbox need separating to access the rear-mounted chain. N20 petrols suffer similar (front-mounted) chain wear and also throw P0017.

BMW engines that log P0017

• N47 2.0d (1, 3, 5 Series, X1, X3)
• N57 3.0d
• N20 2.0 turbo

How we diagnose P0017 on a BMW

1. Listen for chain rattle at the rear of the engine on N47/N57
2. ISTA: read cam timing deviation alongside P0017
3. Check service history for previous chain work and what parts were used
4. Plan engine-out job with full genuine BMW chain kit
5. Replace rear main seal while engine is out — false economy not to

The common misdiagnosis to avoid

Don't let a non-BMW specialist quote 'chain only' on N47/N57 — full kit (chain, guides, tensioner, sprockets, rear main seal) is the only correct repair.

BMW P0017 repair cost in the UK

Expect £1400–£3500 including parts and labour at an independent garage. Main-dealer quotes on BMW are usually higher for the same job, and the spread exists because the cheap cause and the expensive cause throw the same code — pay for the diagnosis before you pay for parts.

Bob's workshop tip

Buy used N47s only with proof of chain replacement OR sub-80k miles on short-interval (8k mile) servicing — anything else is a coin flip.

Codes usually seen alongside P0017 on BMW

• P0016
• P0008
• P0335

Symptoms drivers report with P0017

• Chain rattle on cold start for 2–5 seconds then quiet
• Rough idle, especially when warm, with slight vibration
• Loss of power / limp mode under hard acceleration
• MPG drop and slight increase in oil consumption
• Paired codes: P0016 (bank 1 sensor A intake), P0011/P0014 (VVT over-advanced), P0341 (cam sensor)

Repairs that clear P0017

• Timing chain service
• Sensor replacement

For the generic, all-makes explanation of this code — meaning, every known cause and UK cost bands — see our P0017 guide.