Last Updated on: 7th September 2023, 12:45 am
P0009 is an OBD fault code standing for “Engine positions system performance bank 2”, this fault can trigger for multiple reasons.
| Fault Code | Fault Location | Probable Cause |
| P0009 | Engine positions system performance bank 2 | Engine timing out of sync, worn timing components, crankshaft or camshaft sensor error, wiring damage, ECM software out of date or damage |
A P0009 OBD fault code indicates an issue with the engine control module (ECM) detecting a change in the mechanical timing between the crankshaft and bank 2 camshaft.
The ECM employs sensors to determine the crankshaft and camshaft positions.
This fault code may also be associated with the following codes; P0008, P0010, P0011, P0012, P0013, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, and potentially many more.
What P0009 Means
An issue with the engine control module (ECM) detecting a change in the mechanical timing between the crankshaft and bank 2 camshaft is indicated by the OBD code P0009.
The ECM employs sensors to determine the crankshaft and camshaft positions. The ECM regulates ignition and fuel timing at varying speeds and loads using these sensor signals.
Usually the MIL (check engine light) will come on and the engine performance can be affected by the code.
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12% OffPossible Causes
There are a variety of causes to a P0009 trouble code, such as the following.
- Engine timing out of sync
- Worn timing components (such as timing chains, gears, and guides)
- Crankshaft or camshaft sensor issues
- Wiring issues (such as faulty connections or damage)
- ECM software out of date
- ECM internal damage
Signs & Symptoms
The following signs and symptoms frequently appear in association with a P0009 error code.
- MIL (check engine light) illumination
- A change in idle quality (such as high idle, lumpy idle, etc)
- Reduced fuel economy
- A change in engine performance (reduced power, stalling, etc)
How to Diagnose
With a sophisticated scan tool that can read factory sensor readings and codes, P0009 can be accurately diagnosed.
A competent expert can read the data from the scan tool to determine when and where the issue first occurred as well as whether it is still occurring.
In order to find out whether the problem is persistent or only occurs sometimes, they could clear the ECM’s code and put the car through a test drive while monitoring the scan tool results.
Visual inspection or a wire wiggle test could be able to reveal more information if the issue is intermittent; if not, it might be necessary to keep driving the car until it gets worse.
If the fault returns straight away, the scan tool and information from professional sources should be able to identify the problem.
A digital voltage scope will be required if not in order to monitor the sensor signals.
What the ECM is observing and its accuracy will be revealed by the signals. It might be necessary to remove the engine’s front timing cover in order to verify the timing.
Depending on the results of the testing, if the code was cleared, and the results of a road test while keeping an eye on the data, a second diagnostic might be required.
Multiple diagnostic tools will be needed, including:
- A sophisticated scan tool for reading the values of the ECM
- A digital voltage scope (with attachments)
- Various tools may be required to reach the sensors and timing elements
Common Mistakes
This code is typically interpreted by inexperienced mechanics to indicate that the engine needs a new timing chain or belt. A P0009 error code may not always have this as its root cause.
It might only take a simple reprogramming of the ECM to fix this issue.
Instead of depending exclusively on the code, a proper diagnosis is required prior to replacing any components.
How Serious Is a P0009 Code
If a P0009 fault code is not identified and corrected, it may lead to the following problems.
- Lower fuel economy
- Idle instability (lumpy or high idle)
- Reduced power
- Potential for future engine damage
- Inability to pass emissions testing
With the right knowledge and resources, a competent technician should be able to identify the issue and confirm these potential problems and consequences.
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12% OffHow to Fix a P0009 Code
The following is the most typical way to fix the P0009 error code.
- Connect a reputable scan tool to confirm the existence of the code.
- Research testing and values based on the code using credible sources.
- Look for any more fault codes that may be connected to the problem, and you may try clearing the fault codes to see which ones reappear.
- Analyze the scan tool data from the ECM associated with the code, and road test the car while doing so. Check to see if the symptoms or the P0009 code is present.
- Visually examine the vehicle for issues (such as any noises, the wiring and sensors, etc).
- If the issue seems to recur, further analyse the issue using specialised tools.
- To identify the source of the issue, a digital voltage scope should be used to analyse the signals and wiring from the sensors.
- The front engine cover and timing chain may need to be removed if the signals and scan tool data are within specification.
- Check to see if the timing marks on the crankshaft and camshaft sprockets are in line.
- Look for wear on the timing chain or belt, guides, and other components.
- After the testing described above, replace the defective component.
- Clear any codes and road test the vehicle to see if the issue is fixed.
Additional Notes
Timing between the crankshaft and camshaft has a significant impact on both engine performance and smoothness. Timing errors are frequently indicated by this code, which has an impact on performance.
The P0009 error code is most typically encountered on Chevrolet, Subaru, and Suzuki vehicles, while it can appear on vehicles from other manufacturers as well.
When the timing slightly varies on vehicles with a higher mileage, it is often assumed that the timing belt, chain, or guides are straining or have degraded.
It’s frequently an ECM software issue that has to be resolved (such as a software update) in vehicles with lower mileage, or a damaged crankshaft or camshaft sensor that produces false signals.
In any of these scenarios, a competent technician with the appropriate tools and access to knowledgeable resources will be able to pinpoint the precise issue that is resulting in the P0009 code.
