Fixing Error Code P0017 on My Volkswagen MK7 GTI SE (Manual Transmission)

George Jen

My Volkswagen MK7 GTI recently displayed a P0017 error code, indicating a timing issue due to a mismatch between the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors on the exhaust side (Bank 1, Sensor B).

Using VCDS, I observed a significant discrepancy in the exhaust camshaft adjustment: the specified value was 9 degrees, while the actual value was 30 degrees. In contrast, the intake camshaft adjustment showed close alignment between specified and actual values, and no error codes were present on the intake side.

This suggested the issue lies on the exhaust side, specifically with the camshaft adjuster magnet solenoid or the oil control valve.

On many Volkswagen and Audi models — including this MK7 GTI — camshaft timing is controlled by the camshaft adjuster magnet solenoid. This solenoid receives a PWM signal from the ECU, generating a magnetic force that actuates a pin to press on the oil control valve. The valve then regulates oil flow, influencing camshaft timing. If this system fails, the exhaust camshaft position drifts, triggering errors such as P0017.

Step 1: Output Test of Camshaft Adjuster Magnet Solenoids

With the engine off and ignition on, I connected VCDS and navigated to:

[Control Module] → [Engine] → [Output Tests]

• Intake Camshaft Adjustment Bank 1: Selected this test, clicked “Start”, then checked under the hood. I heard a distinct clicking sound — indicating the intake camshaft adjuster magnet solenoid is operational

- Exhaust Camshaft Adjustment Bank 1: Ran the same test. This time, no sound was heard — suggesting the exhaust camshaft adjuster magnet solenoid may not be functioning.

Step 2: Remove and Retest the Exhaust Camshaft Adjuster Magnet Solenoid

I turned off the ignition and went to the engine bay:

1. Disconnected the cable from the exhaust camshaft adjuster magnet solenoid.
2. Removed the solenoid by unscrewing the three T30 bolts.

3. Reconnected the cable with the solenoid outside the timing case so its movement could be observed.
4. With the engine off and ignition on, I re-ran the Output Test for Exhaust Camshaft Adjustment Bank 1.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFo30vpnsGw

This time, I could see the solenoid’s pin extend and retract rhythmically. This confirmed the solenoid itself is functional.

Step 3: Diagnose and Clean the Oil Control Valve

The actual problem was now likely the oil control valve. I removed it (note: it’s reverse-threaded) and took it out for inspection.

Using a pick tool, I gently pressed on the valve’s internal plunger and found it was stuck — very difficult to move. This confirmed that oil gunk buildup had created too much static friction for the solenoid pin to overcome.

To fix this:
— I manually pushed the plunger loose using finger pressure.
— Cleaned the valve thoroughly using brake cleaner.
— Ensured the plunger moved freely with reasonable resistance (dynamic friction only).

Step 4: Reassembly and Final Testing

I reinstalled both the cleaned oil control valve and the previously tested camshaft adjuster magnet solenoid.

— Ignition on, engine off: Cleared all fault codes using VCDS.
— Engine start: No more P0017.
— Live data: Both intake and exhaust camshaft specified and actual timing values were closely aligned and within spec.

Conclusion

The P0017 timing error on my MK7 GTI was caused by a stuck oil control valve due to oil sludge buildup. The solenoid was functioning correctly but couldn’t overcome the static resistance. Cleaning and freeing the valve restored proper timing operation and resolved the issue.