Where did you find the definition for P001764?
I see P01764 as being a transmission trouble code.

 

P001764. Correlation code between crank and cam shaft

 

Here are my thoughts. Did you change the engine oil before you changed the camshaft adjusters? If not, the dirty oil/sludge will get inside the mechanism and cause it to gum up and slow it down, potentially causing your problem. Take out the adjuster, shake it, and hear if it rattles easily. If not, you will have to replace it again after changing out the engine oil.

From Grok AI:

The P001764 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) on a 2012 Mercedes-Benz W221 (S-Class) indicates a specific issue with the camshaft position sensor or camshaft adjustment system. This code is not explicitly listed in standard OBD-II code databases for Mercedes-Benz vehicles, as it appears to be a manufacturer-specific code with an extended format (P0017xx). However, based on closely related codes like P0016 and P0017, and insights from similar Mercedes models, we can break it down.

Code Breakdown

• P0017: This is the base code, which typically refers to "Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1, Sensor B)." It indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a misalignment or timing issue between the crankshaft and the exhaust camshaft (Sensor B) on Bank 1 (the side of the engine with cylinder 1).
• 64: The additional digits (64 in P001764) often specify the exact nature of the fault, such as the type of correlation error or a specific component issue. In Mercedes-Benz systems, these extended codes can point to issues like incorrect camshaft position, a faulty camshaft adjuster, or problems with the timing chain or sensors.

Likely Meaning for a 2012 W221

For a 2012 Mercedes W221, which could have various engines (e.g., M272 V6, M273 V8, or M157 V8, depending on the model like S350, S550, or S63 AMG), the P001764 code likely indicates:

• Incorrect camshaft timing on Bank 1, exhaust camshaft (Sensor B).
• Faulty camshaft position sensor or its wiring.
• Issues with the camshaft adjuster (a common problem in Mercedes engines like the M272 and M273).
• Timing chain stretch or issues with the timing chain tensioner.
• ECM or wiring issues causing incorrect sensor readings.

This code may be accompanied by symptoms like sluggish performance, limp mode, rough idling, or a check engine light, as noted in a similar case with a 2012 CLS63 AMG (equipped with the M157 engine), where codes P001664 and P001764 were reported with sluggish performance and limp mode.

Possible Causes

• Faulty Camshaft Position Sensor: The sensor on Bank 1 (exhaust side) may be malfunctioning or sending incorrect signals.
• Camshaft Adjuster Failure: Mercedes engines, especially the M272 and M273, are known for camshaft adjuster (magnet) issues, which can cause timing errors.
• Timing Chain Issues: A stretched timing chain or worn tensioner can lead to improper camshaft-crankshaft correlation.
• Wiring or Connector Issues: Damaged wiring or loose connectors to the camshaft or crankshaft sensors can trigger this code.
• Oil Flow Problems: Low oil pressure or dirty oil can affect the camshaft adjuster’s operation, as these systems rely on oil pressure for variable valve timing.
• ECM Software or Hardware Issue: Less commonly, the ECM may misinterpret sensor data due to software glitches or internal faults.

Diagnostic Steps

Scan for Additional Codes: Use a professional OBD-II scanner (e.g., YOUCANIC or Mercedes STAR/Xentry) to check for related codes, as P001764 may appear alongside others like P0016, P0018, or P0019.

• Inspect Camshaft and Crankshaft Sensors: Check the camshaft position sensor (Bank 1, Sensor B) and crankshaft position sensor for proper operation. Test their resistance and signal output with a multimeter.
• Check Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring harness and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
• Verify Oil Condition: Ensure the engine oil is clean and at the correct level, as camshaft adjusters rely on proper oil pressure. Low or dirty oil can cause issues.
• Inspect Camshaft Adjuster: Test the camshaft adjuster solenoid (magnet) for proper function. In M272/M273 engines, these are known to wear out.
• Check Timing Chain: If sensors and adjusters are fine, inspect the timing chain and tensioner for stretch or wear, which may require advanced tools to measure timing alignment.
• Monitor Live Data: Use a scan tool to monitor live data from the camshaft and crankshaft sensors to confirm their correlation.

Solutions

• Replace Camshaft Position Sensor: If faulty, replace the sensor (cost: $50-$150 for parts, plus labor).
• Replace Camshaft Adjuster: A common fix for M272/M273 engines, costing $200-$500 for parts, though labor can be significant due to engine access.
• Repair Wiring: Fix any damaged wiring or connectors.
• Timing Chain Service: If the timing chain is stretched, it may require replacement, which is a major repair ($1,500-$4,000 depending on the engine).
• Oil Change: If oil issues are suspected, perform an oil change with the correct specification (e.g., 5W-40 synthetic for most W221 engines).
• ECM Update or Replacement: If all else fails, an ECM software update or replacement may be needed, though this is rare.

Notes for W221 Owners

• Engine-Specific Issues: The W221’s engine (e.g., M272, M273, or M157) affects the likelihood of certain causes. For example, M272/M273 engines are prone to camshaft adjuster and balance shaft issues, while the M157 (AMG) may have different sensor or turbo-related problems.
• Professional Diagnosis: Since the W221 has up to 47 control units, a basic OBD-II scanner may not suffice. A Mercedes-specific scanner like STAR/Xentry is recommended for accurate diagnosis.
• Cost Estimate: Repairs for P001764 can range from $200 (sensor replacement) to $4,000 (timing chain repair). Labor rates vary, but expect $100-$150/hour at a dealership or independent shop.

Recommendation

Given the complexity of the W221’s systems and the potential for serious issues like timing chain wear, I recommend taking the vehicle to a Mercedes-Benz dealership or a specialized independent shop with access to STAR/Xentry diagnostics. If you’ve already had it inspected by Mercedes (as mentioned in similar cases), review their diagnostic report for details on what was checked or replaced. If the car is in limp mode or sluggish, avoid driving it extensively to prevent further damage, especially if timing chain issues are suspected.