P0008: Engine Position System Performance Bank 1
What Does P0008 Mean?
P0008 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Engine Position System Performance Bank 1. This code relates to the fuel and air metering system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 7 different vehicle models.
Symptoms of P0008
- ⚠️ Check engine light illuminated
- ⚠️ Rough or unstable idle
- ⚠️ Poor fuel economy
- ⚠️ Loss of engine power
- ⚠️ Vehicle won't start
- ⚠️ Sluggish acceleration
Common Causes
- 🔍 Faulty oxygen sensor
- 🔍 Worn or fouled spark plugs
- 🔍 Throttle body or throttle position sensor issue
- 🔍 Wiring or connector problem
- 🔍 Worn timing chain or belt
- 🔍 Camshaft position sensor failure
P0008 Reports by Year
Real Owner Reports
From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.
""TAKATA RECALL" THE TIMING BELT. TIMING BELT STRETCHED. KNOW FOR FACT THAT 5 OTHER CHEVROLET EQUINOX 2008 HAS HAD THE SAME PROBLEM BROUGHT TO THE SAME AUTOMACANIC SHOP. OURS WOULD BE THE 6TH KNOWN IN HASTINGS MINNESOTA. WOULD LIKE A RECALL AND HAVE PROBLEM FIXED AND PAID FOR BY THE MANUFACTURE. "
— Chevrolet Equinox owner, 04/17/2017
"MY VEHICLE HAS 84,000 MILES ON IT. ABOUT 3 WEEKS AGO THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON FOR CODE P0008. AFTER FURTHER REVIEW THE DEALER DISCOVERED I HAD A STRETCHED TIMING CHAIN THAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AT THE TUNE OF $3,000. I HAVE CHANGED MY OIL AS STATED IN THE MANUAL AND CHECK THE OIL LEVELS PE"
— Chevrolet Equinox owner, 07/05/2016
"THE TIMING CHAIN AND GUIDES WENT BAD AT ONLY 110K MILES. AND IF IT WAS RECALLED LIKE THE 2009 CHEVY TRAVERSE WAS THEN I WOULDN'T HAVE HAD TO FIX IT. IT HAS THE SAME MOTOR. IT IS THE 3.6L MOTOR. BECAUSE IT IS THE SPORTS MODEL. IT WAS THROWING P0008 P0018 P0017 AND TWO TRANSMISSION CODES SO I BELIEVE "
— Chevrolet Equinox owner, 05/12/2020
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Most Reported Vehicles for P0008
Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
| # | Vehicle | Reports |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CHEVROLET TRAVERSE | |
| 2 | CHEVROLET CAMARO | |
| 3 | GMC ACADIA | |
| 4 | CHEVROLET EQUINOX | |
| 5 | HONDA ACCORD | |
| 6 | CHEVROLET MALIBU | |
| 7 | JEEP WAGONEER |
P0008 Reports by Vehicle
Detailed NHTSA complaint analysis for each vehicle model.
Diagnostic Tips
- Scan all modules, save freeze-frame data, and clear unrelated history codes before focusing on P0008.
- Confirm whether companion codes are present first; they often identify the root cause sooner than the headline DTC.
- Prioritize inspection around engine and the most common failure path for this code family.
- Compare commanded vs actual cam/crank angle at idle and during light acceleration to detect actuator or phaser drift.
- After each repair step, complete one drive cycle and verify readiness monitors instead of judging success after a quick idle test.
- If the code keeps returning on high-incidence platforms (for example CHEVROLET TRAVERSE), check TSB patterns and wiring/connector fitment before major part replacement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Skipping freeze-frame review and losing the exact RPM/load conditions when the fault set.
- ❌ Replacing cam sensors before validating oil condition/pressure and actuator control performance.
- ❌ Clearing P0008 and returning the car before monitors complete — this often creates repeat visits.
- ❌ Treating intermittent wiring or connector faults as permanent component failure without wiggle testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with this code?
Will this code cause my car to fail emissions?
How much does it typically cost to fix?
Reported Repair Costs for P0008
Based on 30 owner-reported repair costs from NHTSA complaints.
⚠️ These are owner-reported costs, not estimates. Actual costs vary by location, labor rates, and root cause. Source: NHTSA complaints database.
What To Do Next
Possible Fixes
- 🔧 Have the code scanned with a professional-grade scanner to read freeze frame data
- 🔧 Test the relevant sensor(s) with a multimeter before replacing
- 🔧 Inspect wiring harness and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose connections
- 🔧 Clean or replace the mass air flow (MAF) sensor; check for vacuum leaks
- 🔧 If DIY repair isn't feasible, get a diagnostic from a trusted mechanic ($50-150)
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Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
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Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
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Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.