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2011 Chevrolet Traverse LT 3.6L V6 P0017, P2105, P0336, P0303 - Engine Stalls, Won't Start Past 1500 RPM

Model: 2011 chevrolet traverse lt 3.6l v6 Fault Code: P0017 Posted: 2019-02-20 13:06

A friend reported her 2011 Chevrolet Traverse LT with a 3.6L V6 engine stalled at a traffic light and would not restart. After attempting to jump-start the vehicle, it eventually started but the service light was flashing and the engine only reached approximately 1500 RPM and 15 mph. We brought it home and connected a scan tool, which revealed codes P0017, P2105, P0336, and P0303. The engine cranks slowly, almost as if it's trying to start but fails to ignite properly. We checked the oil level and found it low—had to add two quarts, as the last oil change was overdue. The crankshaft position sensor was replaced with no improvement. Despite this, the vehicle still exhibits poor performance and intermittent stalling. The P0017 code suggests issues with cam or crankshaft position sensors, timing chain wear, or misalignment. Possible causes include a stretched timing chain, skipped tooth in the timing belt, damaged tone rings on the crank or camshafts, faulty sensor wiring, or a stuck solenoid (such as the CMP actuator). The P0336 code indicates a problem with the camshaft position sensor, which may be related to incorrect signal detection. Additionally, P0303 points to a misfire in cylinder 3, possibly due to ignition or fuel system issues. Given that the vehicle briefly ran normally for about one minute before stalling, it suggests intermittent electrical or mechanical faults—possibly involving a stuck solenoid or oil-related interference (e.g., loose oil filter causing internal pressure issues). Low engine oil levels can also negatively impact VVT systems and overall engine performance. We recommend clearing the codes and monitoring which ones appear first during operation. A professional diagnostic check of cam/crank signal correlation is advised to confirm root causes, especially since sensor replacements have not resolved the issue.

Related fault codes
P0017P0303P0336P2105
Comments (10)
Anonymous 2019-02-20 23:24

Begin by checking battery cranking voltage—ensure it's within normal range (typically above 9.6V) during engine cranking.

Anonymous 2019-02-20 23:29

We fully charged the battery and used jumper cables to test if the vehicle could maintain a running state after startup.

Anonymous 2019-02-21 09:59

Confirm that the engine is cranking normally and that spark is present at the plugs.

Anonymous 2019-02-21 10:47

If the engine is cranking properly, check for spark. If no spark is detected, prioritize diagnosing P0336 (camshaft position sensor fault).

Anonymous 2019-02-21 16:00

The vehicle almost starts but only cranks slightly—appears to fire before certain cylinders reach top dead center (TDC), indicating potential timing or ignition issues.

Anonymous 2019-02-21 17:01

Clear the trouble codes and note their appearance order. P0017 and P0336 are both linked to crank/no-start conditions. Since the crankshaft position sensor has already been replaced, focus on the camshaft sensor or timing chain/chain alignment. A professional analysis of cam/crank signal correlation is recommended to isolate the root cause. Possible causes for P0017 include: stretched timing chain, tooth skipped in timing belt due to wear, misalignment of timing components, damaged tone rings (crank or cam), faulty sensors, wiring issues, tensioner damage, improperly torqued crankshaft balancer, or a misbuilt/timed engine. A stuck CMP actuator solenoid or incorrect position of the CMP actuator may also contribute. Read more: P0017 explanation.

Anonymous 2019-02-21 17:35

The vehicle briefly revved and ran normally for about one minute before stalling—this suggests a temporary electrical fault, such as a stuck solenoid or cam sensor issue, rather than mechanical skipping of teeth.

Anonymous 2019-02-21 17:36

We confirmed that the oil level was critically low; the last oil change had been overdue and the vehicle required two quarts to be topped up.

Anonymous 2019-02-21 17:37

Suspected an oil leak from a loose oil filter with a coil wrapped around it—this could interfere with internal engine components or cause sensor malfunctions, possibly including a stuck solenoid.

Anonymous 2019-02-21 18:36

Low oil levels are detrimental to Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and overall engine health. Test the solenoid by applying 12 volts momentarily—observe if it moves. Bank 1 refers to the side containing cylinder #1; the 'B' sensor is likely on the exhaust camshaft side. Read more: P0017 troubleshooting guide.