P0019 on 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse 3.6L V6: Timing Chain Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse

The 3.6L V6 engines (both LLT and LFX) in this generation of Traverse and its platform mates are notorious for premature timing chain stretching. The issue was so widespread that General Motors issued multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), like #12-06-01-009, and a Special Coverage program (#14582) that extended the warranty for this specific repair to 10 years or 120,000 miles. The problem is often linked to the original Oil Life Monitor (OLM) calibration, which allowed for excessively long oil change intervals, leading to oil degradation and accelerated wear on the chains, guides, and tensioners. 🎬 Watch: Why these GM 3.6L timing chains fail so often. For this vehicle, P0019 is considered a strong indicator of mechanical failure, not a simple sensor issue. Manufacturer service bulletin TSB Bulletin #PIP3423P specifically notes that when P0019 is set, technicians must inspect for loose timing chains or tensioners.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light illuminated
• Reduced engine power or "limp mode"
• Rough or unstable idle
• Rattling noise from the engine, especially a brief but distinct rattle on a cold start lasting a few seconds.
• Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration
• Poor fuel economy
• Engine stalling
• Disabled remote start functionality as a safety precaution.
• Simultaneous illumination of the StabiliTrak or Traction Control warning lights, as reported in NHTSA ODI #11220676.
• Air bag light remaining on, which was documented alongside P0019 in NHTSA ODI #11373006.

Most Likely Causes

1. Stretched Timing Chains 🔴 High Probability → Shop Engine Timing Chain A well-documented design and maintenance issue on the 3.6L V6 engine family, exacerbated by long oil change intervals leading to poor lubrication of the chains and tensioners. The original chains were of a design prone to wear, and GM later released updated, more robust parts.
   How to confirm: A professional mechanic can use a scan tool to view camshaft/crankshaft correlation data; a consistent deviation greater than 4-6 degrees suggests a mechanical timing issue. Advanced diagnosis can be done with a lab scope to compare cam and crank sensor waveforms without major disassembly. Physical inspection is the definitive confirmation but is highly labor-intensive.
   Typical fix: Replace all three timing chains, all tensioners, and all guides using an updated OEM or high-quality aftermarket kit. The water pump is also typically replaced at the same time as it is driven by the timing system and located behind the timing cover.
   Est. part cost: $400-$1015
2. Low or Dirty Engine Oil 🟡 Medium Probability The Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system, including the cam phasers and tensioners, is operated by oil pressure. Degraded or low oil can cause these components to function improperly, leading to timing correlation codes and accelerating chain wear.
   How to confirm: Check the engine oil level and condition on the dipstick. If the oil is low, very dark, or gritty, it is a contributing factor. An oil change may temporarily quiet the engine or even make the code disappear, but it will likely return if mechanical wear has already occurred.
   Typical fix: Perform an oil and filter change using a full synthetic 5W-30 oil that meets GM's Dexos specification. This is a critical first step and a necessary maintenance practice, but it is not a permanent fix if the chains are already stretched. 🎬 See how to prevent future timing chain problems on this engine.
   Est. part cost: $50-$100
3. Failed Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid (VVT Solenoid) ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Engine Camshaft These solenoids can become clogged with sludge from degraded oil or fail electrically, preventing proper adjustment of the camshaft timing. They are a common failure part, but less likely to be the root cause of P0019 specifically, compared to the chains themselves.
   How to confirm: Swap the Bank 2 exhaust solenoid with the Bank 2 intake solenoid. Clear the codes and run the engine. If the code changes to P0018 (Bank 2, Intake), the solenoid is confirmed to be faulty. The solenoids can also be removed and tested for actuation using a 12V source or checked for resistance.
   Typical fix: Replace the faulty solenoid. They are located on the front of the valve covers and are relatively easy to access. Use an OEM (ACDelco) or reputable aftermarket brand.
   Est. part cost: $30-$70

Rare But Worth Checking

• Slipped Crankshaft Reluctor Wheel: → Shop Engine Crankshaft Mentioned in TSBs like #PIP3423P as a rare possibility. The reluctor wheel (tone ring) on the crankshaft is press-fit and can move, causing the crank sensor to send a signal that is out of sync with the cams, even if the chains are perfectly timed. This can sometimes be inspected with a borescope through the crank sensor port. A video guide shows how to check the alignment, which should be 3.5 teeth from the crankshaft lobe to the gap.
• Failed Camshaft Position Sensor: → Shop Engine Camshaft Position Sensor While a possible cause, this is very rarely the actual problem for a P0019 code on this engine and is the most common misdiagnosis. Do not replace this sensor unless it has been specifically tested and proven to be faulty, or if it is accompanied by a sensor-specific circuit code like P0390-P0394. An owner report in NHTSA ODI #11280545 confirms that replacing sensors often fails to clear the P0017, P0018, and P0019 codes.
• Failed or Clogged Camshaft Phaser: → Shop Engine Camshaft In some cases, even after a timing chain replacement, the code can persist. This may be due to a faulty VVT camshaft phaser (actuator sprocket) that is not responding correctly to the solenoid's commands. One owner on a Reddit forum reported that replacing the exhaust VVT cam gear from the dealership finally resolved the P0019 code after a timing job.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check Engine Oil: Verify the oil level is correct and the oil is clean. If low or dirty, perform an oil and filter change with 5W-30 full synthetic Dexos-approved oil. Clear the codes and see if P0019 returns. This is the easiest and cheapest first step.
2. Scan Tool Data: Use an OBD-II scanner to monitor live data for desired vs. actual camshaft position angles for Bank 2. A consistent deviation, especially one that increases with RPM, indicates a timing problem.
3. Test VVT Solenoid: Swap the Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid with the intake solenoid on the same bank. Clear codes. If the code changes to P0018, the solenoid is faulty and should be replaced.
4. Inspect Wiring: Check the wiring and connectors for the camshaft position sensor and VVT solenoid on Bank 2 for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
5. Professional Inspection: If the above steps do not resolve the code, the vehicle must be taken to a professional for timing chain inspection. This is a labor-intensive process that confirms the diagnosis of stretched chains and is the most likely outcome.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Engine Timing Chain Kit (OEM #12651450 (superseded by 12700436)) — This is the most common failure part for a P0019 code on this vehicle. A complete kit ensures all worn components (3 chains, 3 tensioners, 6 guides) are replaced with updated parts.
  Trusted brands: ACDelco (Genuine GM), Melling, Cloyes (p/n 9-0753S)
  OEM price range: $450-$600
  Aftermarket price range: $250-$450
• Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid (VVT Solenoid) (OEM #12687954 (Exhaust)) — A much less common cause, but a possible failure point due to oil contamination. It should only be replaced after being confirmed faulty through diagnostic testing.
  Trusted brands: ACDelco, Delphi, Dorman
  OEM price range: $50-$80
  Aftermarket price range: $25-$50

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0008 — A general engine timing system performance code for Bank 1. Its presence with P0019 strongly points to a base timing issue, like a stretched primary timing chain affecting the whole engine.
• P0018 — This is the correlation code for the intake camshaft on the same bank (Bank 2). When P0018 and P0019 appear together, it's an extremely strong indicator of a timing chain problem on Bank 2 or the primary chain.
• P0016 — Correlation error for Bank 1 Intake Cam. Seeing multiple correlation codes across both banks (e.g., P0016 and P0019) is a classic sign of a stretched primary timing chain affecting the entire engine.
• P0017 — Correlation error for Bank 1 Exhaust Cam. Its presence with P0019 points to a widespread timing issue affecting both banks.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 12-06-01-009F: Details the diagnostic and repair procedures for stretched timing chains causing codes P0008, P0009, P0016, P0017, P0018, and P0019, and lists the required timing chain service kits.
• PIP3423P: Instructs technicians to investigate for loose timing chains or tensioners when correlation codes P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0008, or P0009 are present.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• GM Special Coverage Adjustment #14582: GM acknowledged the high failure rate of timing chains by extending the warranty to 10 years or 120,000 miles for this specific repair. However, all vehicles in this range have now surpassed the time limit of this program.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid (VVT Solenoid) Resistance — expected: 8 to 12 Ohms at 68°F (20°C). Some sources cite 5.0 to 15.0 Ohms.. Failure: A reading outside the specified range, or an open/short circuit, indicates a failed solenoid.
• Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) Low Reference Circuit Resistance to Ground — expected: Less than 5.0 Ohms.. Failure: A reading higher than 5.0 Ohms indicates high resistance in the ground circuit, which can affect the sensor's signal.
• Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) 3-wire Connector Voltage (Key On, Engine Off) — expected: Pin 1 (Low Reference): ~0V, Pin 2 (Signal): 4.8-5.2V, Pin 3 (5V Reference): 4.8-5.2V.. Failure: Absence of the 5V reference or a signal voltage outside the specified range points to a wiring or ECM issue.
• Crankshaft Reluctor Wheel Position Measurement — expected: 25 to 26 mm from the end of the machined surface of the crankshaft throw to the edge of the open space in the reluctor.. Failure: Any measurement outside this range indicates the reluctor wheel has slipped, requiring crankshaft replacement. This is detailed in TSB PIP3423N.
• Cam/Crank Correlation Deviation Angle (Live Data) — expected: Stable and close to 0 degrees at idle.. Failure: A consistent deviation greater than 9 degrees will set the code. A steady deviation of 4-6 degrees or more at idle strongly points to a mechanical timing issue.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• GDS2 / Tech2 (or equivalent): Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Test / Actuator Control — This bidirectional command manually activates the VVT solenoid while the engine is running. If the engine idle stumbles or stalls, it confirms the solenoid, wiring, and oil passages are likely working. No change in engine operation points to a faulty solenoid, clogged oil passage, or a failed phaser.
• GDS2 / Tech2 (or equivalent): Camshaft Position Variance (Live Data Parameter) — This is the primary data PID the ECM uses to set the code. Monitoring the desired vs. actual camshaft position in degrees for Bank 2 Exhaust will show the deviation in real-time. A healthy engine should be near 0 degrees at idle.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• G110 — Right rear of the engine, mounted to the back of the cylinder head, on a bracket above the power steering pressure hose.. This is a critical engine ground. A loose or corroded G110 ground has been documented to cause intermittent electrical issues, including no-start conditions and communication problems that could potentially affect sensor readings. One owner found it cross-threaded and loose after a transmission replacement, causing intermittent issues.
• Bank 2 Exhaust Camshaft Position Sensor Connector — On the Bank 2 (front, radiator side) valve cover.. This is the primary sensor for this code. The 3-pin connector provides the 5V reference, signal, and low reference (ground) circuits. Verifying voltage and ground integrity at this connector is a key diagnostic step.
• Bank 2 Exhaust VVT Solenoid Connector — On the front of the Bank 2 (radiator side) valve cover, next to the intake solenoid.. This connector provides power and control to the solenoid. Checking for voltage and testing resistance through this connector can diagnose a faulty solenoid or wiring issue without removing the part.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• 2CarPros Forum User (Audi 3.2L (Similar V6 architecture and VVT system)) — P0018 and P0019 codes present.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Replaced timing chain., Verified mechanical timing was correct after installation., Verified good voltage (4.9V reference, 4.6V signal) and ground at sensors.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The diagnostic path became confusing. After swapping cam sensors from bank to bank, the P0018/P0019 codes disappeared but were replaced by a P0017 code on the other bank. This indicates the fault moved with the sensor, but replacing the sensor did not fix the new P0017 code. The final conclusion pointed towards a potential ECM fault, as the engine ran smoothly with no misfires despite the persistent timing code.
• NHTSA ODI #11311926 — An owner reported that the vehicle would shut off at lights and required restarting. A scanner confirmed code P0019, which the owner noted was related to the correlation between the timing chain and cam sensor.
• NHTSA ODI #11280545 — After multiple attempts to clear codes P0017, P0018, and P0019 by replacing sensors, the owner found the codes continued to pop up within 5-10 minutes, and the vehicle was unable to exceed 40 MPH.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 12651450 → 12700436, and also referenced as 12693218 in some kits. — Updated parts to improve durability and address the premature stretching issue found in the original timing chains.
• 12635447, 12673669, 12675579 → 12680750 — Consolidation of previous timing chain kit part numbers into a new kit.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2009-2012 vs 2013-2017: The engine was updated from the LLT (2009-2012) to the LFX (2013-2017). While both are 3.6L V6s and suffer from the same fundamental timing chain issues, some parts like intake manifolds and cylinder heads were changed. However, the core timing components, sensors, and the P0019 diagnostic procedure remain largely the same. TSBs like PIP3423N cover both LLT and LFX engines, indicating the root causes are shared.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Real Owner Stories

Aggregated from forums and TSBs cited above. Mileages and costs reflect what owners reported in those sources.

Related OBD-II Codes

• P0018 — Bank 2 Intake Camshaft Position Correlation. Often appears alongside P0019 due to the same stretched timing chain issue, and is the code that will appear if a faulty Bank 2 exhaust VVT solenoid is swapped to the intake side during diagnosis.
• P0016 — Bank 1 Intake Camshaft Position Correlation. Frequently triggered alongside P0019 when the primary timing chain or multiple chains are stretched, as detailed in TSB 12-06-01-009F.
• P0017 — Bank 1 Exhaust Camshaft Position Correlation. Another companion code listed in TSB 12-06-01-009F indicating timing chain stretch affecting the opposite bank of the engine.
• P0008 — Engine Position System Performance Bank 1. A broader timing system performance code that GM specifically links to the same stretched timing chain failure mode in TSB 12-06-01-009F.
• P0009 — Engine Position System Performance Bank 2. The Bank 2 equivalent of P0008, directly related to the same mechanical timing chain wear that causes P0019.

Frequently Asked Questions