Codes P0014 and P0017, engine performance and noise?

2005 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER
225,000 MILES • 4.2L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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RICKYSH11
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  • 75 POSTS
I have recently scanned my check light and to find P0014 and P0017 codes. I was driven to check after experiencing bad engine performance such as loss of power, intermittent squeaking noise, rough idle, stalling and the engine shutting off while stopped. There is also the presence of a tapping type of noise when the engine is running. I checked the oil level, which was low, and the oil was rather dark and thick, so I changed the oil, replaced the VVT solenoid and connector, with no noticeable improvements. Would this be an issue of the timing chain or maybe the camshaft actuators? I am attaching an audio file of the noises.
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Apr 13, 2025 at 5:52 PM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,065 POSTS
Thanks for the video. Oh boy, yep, this engine has internal mechanical issues, I would not put anymore parts on the exterior.

P0014: The ECM detects that the exhaust camshaft is too far advanced than it should be.

P0017: The ECM detects a timing discrepancy between the crankshaft and the camshaft - essentially, they’re out of sync.


This guide might help you understand what's going on:


https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-noises


So, these codes come up when the timing chain and camshaft actuators go bad, but I don't think this is making the noise, it sounds like a broken piston or a spun rod bearing. If you plan on keeping the car I would get a rebuilt engine for it from ATK. Sorry about that.
Apr 14, 2025 at 5:30 AM
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REALLYBILLIE
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I'm not any real help- but I'm in the same boat, & sending moral support! i have the 4wd 2003 trailblazer. after a little bit of searching, trying to troubleshoot one of the maaaaany issues I've had with it... I find that all over the Internet, this car has been nicknamed the FAILblazer!! at this point, we've almost replaced all the systems that tend to fail with these.. except all the quickly degrading plastic parts!! ugh!
and the door panels alone are held on by 5 different types of fasteners! no joke!
i have a box of almost 50 of the little white arrow shaped ones- i only actually needed 6 i think! so if you're reading this, & need some of those for your trailblazer- I'll send them to you if you pay shipping!
my email is reallybilliereally@gmail.com
I'm serious!
if you don't need them yet- you will in due time! none of the plastic holds up, sadly.
Aug 6, 2026 at 11:57 AM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,065 POSTS
Great help, I hope they come back to see the post.
Aug 6, 2026 at 6:26 PM
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