CAM sensor P0017

Well a P0017 generally means that the actual sensor is working. That is because the code is created when the signals from the cam sensor and crankshaft sensor fall out of time by more than a very few degrees. The normal causes for this on the 2.4 are a worn timing chain or failing chain tensioner or the camshaft actuator(s) get stuck. At 170K I would suspect the timing chain itself.

On older engines you could check the chain stretch by removing the spark plugs and distributor cap. Turning the engine with a bar until the rotor moved. Then turning it backwards until it moved again. You could use the timing tab numbers to get the degrees of stretch in the chain.

Basically this engine does that same test but it uses the crank and cam sensors to do it while the engine is running by measuring the difference between the signals from those sensors. In a "perfect" engine there would be 0 degrees difference. That might happen in the very first few minutes the engine ran when it was brand new but with all of the build tolerances and initial break in wear that goes away fast.
The makers know this so they program in a wear allowance number. Depending on the engine and controls this can be anywhere from 2-3 degrees up to 8-10 degrees difference in the signals. When the difference falls outside of the number you get a P0017 code.

The attached pictures show the path of the chain. The long curved sections both ride on tensioner guides. The part with the 3 pointing to it is the intake VVT actuator. It's twin is on the exhaust cam. Those parts are the ones causing the code. Not the sensor.

With a no start and this code I would first check the crankshaft signal for output. If you have a tachometer this is easier. If it moves while you are cranking the engine it has a signal. No motion = bad crankshaft sensor (they usually won't set a code on their own)

Next would be to check for fuel. A quick shot of starting fluid in the intake is an easy test for this. If it tries to fire on that you are missing fuel. As the injectors are timed using the crank signal a loss of that means no fuel. OR it could be the fuel pump relay or a bad pump itself.