If your OBD-II scanner displays P0016, your vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected that the crankshaft and Bank 1 “A” camshaft are no longer properly synchronized.
On most dual-overhead-cam engines, Sensor A refers to the intake camshaft, while Bank 1 is the side of the engine containing cylinder number one. The crankshaft controls piston movement, and the camshaft controls when the intake valves open and close. These components must remain precisely synchronized for the engine to run correctly.
P0016 is commonly caused by:
- A stretched timing chain
- A slipped or incorrectly installed timing belt
- A failed timing-chain tensioner
- Worn or broken timing guides
- A faulty camshaft phaser
- Low or dirty engine oil
- Low engine oil pressure
- A faulty camshaft or crankshaft position sensor
- A damaged reluctor wheel
- Incorrect mechanical timing
P0016 should not be ignored. Although a sensor or wiring problem can trigger the code, it frequently indicates a mechanical timing fault that can eventually cause severe internal engine damage.
Looking for more diagnostic resources? Browse our complete OBD-II libraries:
- Complete OBD-II Code Library: https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-obdii/
- Body (B) Codes: https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-doctor/b-code-obd-ii-codes/
- Chassis (C) Codes: https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-doctor/c-code-obd-ii-codes/
P0016 Quick Facts
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| OBD-II code | P0016 |
| Official description | Crankshaft Position–Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor A |
| Category | Powertrain |
| System | Mechanical engine timing and variable valve timing |
| Code type | Generic SAE powertrain code |
| Severity | High |
| Safe to drive? | Limited driving only; diagnose immediately |
| Most common causes | Stretched timing chain, failed tensioner, incorrect timing, VVT fault |
| Typical repair cost | $150–$4,000+ |
What Does the P0016 Code Mean?
P0016 means “Crankshaft Position–Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor A.”
The ECM continuously compares signals from the crankshaft position sensor and Bank 1 camshaft position sensor.
The crankshaft position sensor tells the ECM:
- Crankshaft speed
- Piston position
- Engine RPM
- Top-dead-center reference
- Ignition and fuel-injection timing
The camshaft position sensor tells the ECM:
- Camshaft position
- Valve-timing position
- Which cylinder is on its compression stroke
- Variable valve timing response
The ECM expects the crankshaft and camshaft signals to maintain a precise relationship. When the Bank 1 intake camshaft signal occurs earlier or later than expected relative to the crankshaft signal, the ECM stores P0016.
The timing deviation may be caused by:
- Mechanical chain or belt movement
- Variable valve timing malfunction
- Sensor signal distortion
- Reluctor-wheel movement
- Incorrect engine assembly
P0016 is closely related to:
- P0017: Crankshaft Position–Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor B
- P0018: Crankshaft Position–Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor A
- P0019: Crankshaft Position–Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor B
- P0008: Engine Position System Performance Bank 1
- P0011: Intake Camshaft Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0012: Intake Camshaft Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
What Does Sensor A Mean?
On most dual-overhead-cam engines:
- Sensor A monitors the intake camshaft.
- Sensor B monitors the exhaust camshaft.
On a single-overhead-cam engine, Sensor A may refer to the only camshaft.
Manufacturer terminology is not completely universal, so always verify the correct sensor and camshaft using vehicle-specific service information.
P0016 generally refers to the relationship between the crankshaft and the Bank 1 intake camshaft.
What Is Bank 1?
Bank 1 is the side of the engine containing cylinder number one.
On an inline four-cylinder or inline six-cylinder engine, there is only one cylinder bank, so the entire engine is Bank 1.
On V6, V8, V10 and horizontally opposed engines, Bank 1 may be located on either side.
Do not assume Bank 1 is always the driver side or passenger side.
Confirm Bank 1 using:
- Manufacturer service information
- A firing-order diagram
- Cylinder-numbering labels
- A professional repair database
How Crankshaft and Camshaft Timing Works
The crankshaft converts piston movement into rotational force.
The camshaft opens and closes the intake and exhaust valves.
These components are connected through a:
- Timing chain
- Timing belt
- Gear drive
- Combination of chains and gears
During normal engine operation:
- The intake valve opens.
- The piston moves downward and draws in air and fuel.
- The intake valve closes.
- The piston moves upward and compresses the mixture.
- Combustion forces the piston downward.
- The exhaust valve opens.
- The piston pushes exhaust gases out.
Even a small timing error can affect:
- Compression
- Power
- Fuel economy
- Emissions
- Idle quality
- Starting
If timing shifts too far on an interference engine, the pistons may contact the valves.
How the ECM Detects P0016
The camshaft and crankshaft sensors read toothed or patterned reluctor wheels.
As the reluctor passes the sensor, it generates an electrical signal. The ECM compares the timing of these signals with a programmed reference pattern.
The ECM may set P0016 when:
- The camshaft signal is too advanced.
- The camshaft signal is too retarded.
- The correlation error exceeds a programmed threshold.
- The camshaft moves inconsistently.
- The expected signal edges do not align.
- Variable valve timing cannot return the camshaft to its base position.
A professional oscilloscope can display both signals at once. This is often called a cam and crank correlation waveform.
Symptoms of the P0016 Code
Symptoms depend on how far the timing has shifted and whether the fault is mechanical, hydraulic or electrical.
Common symptoms include:
- Illuminated Check Engine Light
- Rough idle
- Engine misfires
- Poor acceleration
- Reduced engine power
- Hard starting
- Extended cranking
- Engine stalling
- Poor fuel economy
- Increased emissions
- Timing-chain rattle
- Metallic startup noise
- Engine hesitation
- Limp mode
- Failed emissions inspection
- Engine cranks but will not start
- Backfiring through the intake or exhaust
A minor timing deviation may cause only a warning light.
A severely stretched or jumped timing chain may cause:
- Severe misfires
- Very low compression
- A no-start condition
- Valve damage
Common Causes of P0016
1. Stretched Timing Chain
A stretched timing chain is one of the most common causes of P0016.
The chain does not usually stretch like elastic material. Instead, wear develops at the:
- Chain pins
- Bushings
- Links
- Sprocket teeth
This cumulative wear increases the chain’s effective length and changes the relationship between the crankshaft and camshaft.
Common signs include:
- Startup rattling
- Poor acceleration
- Multiple timing codes
- Extended cranking
- Excessive camshaft phase error
- Timing marks that no longer align
- Excessive tensioner extension
Chain wear is more likely with:
- High mileage
- Long oil-change intervals
- Low oil levels
- Sludge buildup
- Incorrect oil viscosity
- Known timing-system weaknesses
2. Failed Timing-Chain Tensioner
The timing-chain tensioner keeps the chain tight.
Many tensioners use:
- Spring pressure
- Engine-oil pressure
- A mechanical ratcheting mechanism
A failed tensioner can allow the chain to become loose and change camshaft timing.
Possible failures include:
- Weak spring
- Hydraulic leakage
- Internal wear
- Sludge restriction
- Mechanical collapse
- Loss of pressure after shutdown
A tensioner that drains down overnight often causes a brief startup rattle.
3. Worn or Broken Timing Guides
Timing-chain guides keep the chain properly aligned.
The guides may:
- Crack
- Wear through
- Break apart
- Separate from their mounting points
- Allow excessive chain movement
Broken guide material may fall into the oil pan and restrict the oil pickup.
This can create both a timing problem and a low-oil-pressure condition.
4. Jumped Timing Chain
A loose chain may jump one or more sprocket teeth.
This can happen because of:
- A failed tensioner
- Broken guides
- Severe chain stretch
- Low oil pressure
- Engine kickback during starting
- Improper repair procedures
A chain that jumps one tooth may cause rough running and correlation codes.
A chain that jumps several teeth may cause:
- A no-start condition
- Bent valves
- Piston damage
- Cylinder-head damage
5. Slipped or Damaged Timing Belt
On engines using a timing belt, P0016 may be caused by:
- A worn belt
- Missing belt teeth
- A failed tensioner
- A seized idler pulley
- Oil contamination
- Incorrect installation
- Excessive belt slack
Timing belts should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s service interval.
A belt failure on an interference engine can cause severe internal damage.
6. Incorrect Mechanical Timing
P0016 may appear immediately after:
- Timing-chain replacement
- Timing-belt replacement
- Cylinder-head repair
- Camshaft replacement
- Engine rebuilding
- Camshaft phaser replacement
Possible assembly errors include:
- Camshaft timing one tooth off
- Crankshaft timing mark misaligned
- Incorrect marked chain links
- Phaser installed incorrectly
- Tensioner released improperly
- Wrong locking-tool procedure
- Incorrect replacement parts
If P0016 appears after engine work, verify mechanical timing before replacing sensors.
7. Low Engine Oil Level
Variable valve timing systems and hydraulic chain tensioners depend on engine oil.
Low oil may cause:
- Weak timing-chain tension
- Delayed phaser movement
- Inconsistent camshaft position
- Startup rattling
- Low oil pressure
Always check the oil level before beginning advanced diagnosis.
8. Dirty or Incorrect Engine Oil
Dirty or incorrect oil can restrict VVT operation and timing-chain tensioner performance.
Possible problems include:
- Sludge
- Varnish
- Carbon contamination
- Incorrect viscosity
- Fuel dilution
- Coolant contamination
- Metal particles
Oil that is too thick may respond slowly during cold starts.
Oil that is too thin may not maintain sufficient pressure in worn components.
9. Low Engine Oil Pressure
The oil level may be correct while actual pressure remains too low.
Possible causes include:
- Worn oil pump
- Restricted oil pickup
- Excessive bearing clearance
- Internal oil leakage
- Clogged oil passages
- Failed pressure-control valve
- Damaged oil-pump drive
Low pressure can affect:
- Timing-chain tensioners
- Camshaft phasers
- VVT solenoids
- Camshaft position stability
A mechanical oil-pressure test may be required.
10. Faulty VVT Solenoid
The Bank 1 intake VVT solenoid controls oil flow to the camshaft phaser.
A sticking or failed solenoid may cause the intake camshaft to remain in the wrong position.
Possible causes include:
- Sludge contamination
- Metal debris
- Clogged screen
- Electrical failure
- Internal sticking
- Restricted oil flow
Related codes may include P0010, P0011 or P0012.
11. Failed Camshaft Phaser
The camshaft phaser advances and retards the camshaft using engine-oil pressure.
A failed phaser may:
- Stick advanced
- Stick retarded
- Respond slowly
- Fail to return to its base position
- Leak internally
- Rattle during startup
- Develop excessive mechanical play
A phaser that does not return to its expected position can trigger P0016.
12. Faulty Camshaft Position Sensor
The camshaft position sensor may produce:
- A weak signal
- Intermittent dropout
- Distorted waveform
- Incorrect switching
- No signal
Possible causes include:
- Internal sensor failure
- Connector corrosion
- Broken wiring
- Metal debris on the sensor
- Incorrect sensor clearance
- Heat damage
However, the sensor may be operating correctly and reporting an actual mechanical timing problem.
Do not replace it based only on P0016.
13. Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor
The crankshaft position sensor provides the ECM’s primary engine-position reference.
A faulty crankshaft signal may be caused by:
- Internal sensor failure
- Damaged wiring
- Connector corrosion
- Incorrect air gap
- Heat damage
- Metal debris
- Excessive crankshaft movement
A crankshaft sensor fault may also cause:
- Engine stalling
- Tachometer dropout
- Extended cranking
- No-start condition
- Additional sensor codes
14. Shifted Camshaft Reluctor Wheel
The camshaft sensor reads a reluctor or trigger wheel mounted on the camshaft or phaser.
The reluctor may become:
- Loose
- Bent
- Cracked
- Misaligned
- Shifted on the camshaft
- Damaged during repairs
A shifted reluctor changes the sensor signal without necessarily changing the physical valve timing.
15. Shifted Crankshaft Reluctor Wheel
A crankshaft reluctor may also move out of position.
Possible causes include:
- Loose press fit
- Crankshaft damage
- Improper engine assembly
- Harmonic balancer failure
- Collision damage
- Excessive crankshaft end play
A shifted crankshaft reluctor can affect several camshaft correlation codes simultaneously.
16. Damaged Wiring or Connectors
Inspect the camshaft and crankshaft sensor circuits for:
- Broken wires
- Loose connectors
- Corrosion
- Bent terminals
- Oil contamination
- Heat damage
- Harness abrasion
- Rodent damage
- Poor previous repairs
Intermittent wiring faults may cause P0016 only under certain temperatures or engine movements.
17. Faulty ECM or PCM
A failed ECM is possible but rare.
Before replacing the module, verify:
- Mechanical timing
- Sensor signals
- Reluctor alignment
- Oil pressure
- VVT operation
- Wiring continuity
- Power and ground circuits
Replacement modules may require programming and immobilizer relearning.
How Serious Is the P0016 Code?
P0016 is a serious trouble code.
It may indicate that the engine’s mechanical timing is no longer correct.
Ignoring the code can lead to:
- Poor engine performance
- Increased fuel consumption
- Engine stalling
- Timing-chain failure
- Timing-belt failure
- Valve-to-piston contact
- Bent valves
- Damaged pistons
- Cylinder-head damage
- Complete engine failure
The risk is especially high on an interference engine.
In an interference engine, the pistons and valves occupy the same area at different times. If timing shifts far enough, they can collide.
Can You Drive With P0016?
Limited driving may be possible if:
- The engine runs smoothly.
- No timing noise is present.
- Oil pressure is normal.
- The Check Engine Light remains steady.
- The vehicle does not stall.
- Power remains normal.
However, continued driving is not recommended.
Stop driving immediately if you notice:
- Loud rattling from the timing cover
- Repeated startup clatter
- Severe misfires
- A flashing Check Engine Light
- Sudden power loss
- Backfiring
- Low-oil-pressure warning
- Engine stalling
- A no-start condition
If the timing chain or belt has moved, further operation may cause catastrophic engine damage.
How to Diagnose P0016
Step 1: Scan for Additional Codes
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for related codes.
Common companion codes include:
- P0008
- P0009
- P0010
- P0011
- P0012
- P0017
- P0018
- P0019
- Camshaft sensor codes
- Crankshaft sensor codes
- Misfire codes
- Oil-pressure codes
Record:
- Freeze-frame data
- Engine speed
- Engine load
- Coolant temperature
- Oil temperature
- Camshaft command
- Actual camshaft position
- Battery voltage
Do not clear the codes before recording this information.
Step 2: Check the Engine Oil
Inspect:
- Oil level
- Oil condition
- Oil viscosity
- Sludge
- Metal particles
- Fuel contamination
- Coolant contamination
Correct low or incorrect oil before proceeding.
Fresh oil may improve a sticking VVT system, but it cannot repair a stretched chain or jumped timing belt.
Step 3: Review the Maintenance and Repair History
Determine:
- When the oil was last changed
- Whether the oil level has been low
- Whether timing service was recently performed
- Whether the engine has a startup rattle
- Whether the timing belt is overdue
- Whether the engine was recently rebuilt
- Whether camshaft or phaser components were replaced
A code appearing immediately after timing work strongly suggests incorrect installation.
Step 4: Listen for Timing-System Noise
Start the engine when cold and listen near the timing cover.
Warning sounds include:
- Brief startup rattle
- Continuous chain slapping
- Metallic ticking
- Scraping
- Noise that increases with RPM
A cold-start rattle often points toward:
- Timing-chain slack
- Tensioner drain-down
- Worn guide
- Camshaft phaser failure
Keep hands, tools and clothing away from moving parts.
Step 5: Inspect Sensor Wiring and Connectors
Inspect the Bank 1 camshaft and crankshaft sensor circuits.
Look for:
- Broken wires
- Loose connectors
- Corrosion
- Bent pins
- Oil contamination
- Heat damage
- Harness rubbing
- Previous repairs
Repair electrical faults before disassembling the timing system.
Step 6: Test the Camshaft Position Sensor
Depending on sensor design, test:
- Power supply
- Ground
- Signal voltage
- Signal frequency
- Signal waveform
- Circuit continuity
Hall-effect sensors typically require a power supply and ground.
Magnetic sensors generate their own AC signal.
Use vehicle-specific specifications.
Step 7: Test the Crankshaft Position Sensor
Perform similar testing on the crankshaft position sensor.
Inspect:
- Sensor resistance when applicable
- Signal voltage
- Signal waveform
- Power and ground
- Connector condition
- Sensor air gap
An oscilloscope is often the best tool for identifying intermittent signal dropout.
Step 8: Compare Camshaft and Crankshaft Waveforms
Connect an oscilloscope to both sensors and compare their signals.
A known-good waveform may identify:
- Stretched timing chain
- Incorrect mechanical timing
- Shifted reluctor
- Sensor dropout
- Excessive camshaft movement
- Wiring interference
Waveform correlation can sometimes confirm mechanical timing deviation without removing the timing cover.
Step 9: Monitor Camshaft Position Data
Use a capable scan tool to compare:
- Commanded intake camshaft angle
- Actual intake camshaft angle
- Camshaft phase error
- VVT solenoid duty cycle
- Camshaft response time
A camshaft that remains consistently advanced or retarded may indicate:
- Mechanical timing error
- Chain stretch
- Sticking phaser
- Restricted oil passage
- Low oil pressure
Step 10: Test the VVT Solenoid
Inspect and test the Bank 1 intake VVT solenoid.
Diagnosis may include:
- Resistance testing
- Power-supply testing
- ECM control testing
- Current measurement
- Bidirectional scan-tool activation
- Inspection for sludge or debris
If the electrical circuit works but the camshaft does not move, suspect a hydraulic or mechanical fault.
Step 11: Check Engine Oil Pressure
Install a mechanical oil-pressure gauge if low pressure is suspected.
Measure pressure at:
- Cold idle
- Warm idle
- Increased engine speed
Compare results with factory specifications.
Do not assume pressure is normal because the dashboard warning light remains off.
Step 12: Inspect the VVT Solenoid and Oil Passages
Remove the solenoid when permitted by the service procedure.
Inspect for:
- Sludge
- Metal debris
- Clogged screens
- Damaged O-rings
- Sticking internal valve
- Restricted oil passages
Heavy metal debris may indicate timing-chain, phaser or internal engine wear.
Step 13: Verify Mechanical Timing
If scan data or waveform testing suggests a timing fault, inspect the mechanical timing system.
This may require removal of:
- Valve covers
- Timing covers
- Front-engine accessories
- Engine mounts
- Camshaft access plugs
Position the engine at top dead center and compare all timing marks with factory specifications.
Inspect:
- Timing-chain slack
- Timing-belt alignment
- Chain tensioner extension
- Guide condition
- Sprocket wear
- Camshaft phaser position
- Crankshaft alignment
- Camshaft alignment
Special locking tools may be required.
Step 14: Inspect the Reluctor Wheels
If mechanical timing is correct but correlation remains wrong, inspect the camshaft and crankshaft reluctors.
Look for:
- Shifted position
- Cracks
- Bent teeth
- Missing segments
- Loose mounting
- Damage from previous repairs
Some reluctors are pressed onto the shaft and may require component replacement if they move.
Step 15: Check Technical Service Bulletins
Some engines have known issues involving:
- Timing-chain stretch
- Revised tensioners
- Updated camshaft phasers
- Reluctor-wheel movement
- Updated oil specifications
- ECM calibration
- Extended warranty coverage
- Revised diagnostic procedures
Review manufacturer service information before beginning major repairs.
Step 16: Verify the Repair
After completing repairs:
- Clear all stored codes.
- Start the engine from cold.
- Listen for abnormal noise.
- Monitor camshaft and crankshaft synchronization.
- Compare commanded and actual camshaft position.
- Complete the manufacturer’s drive cycle.
- Rescan for pending codes.
- Restart the engine several times.
A successful repair should restore proper correlation and prevent P0016 from returning.
Common P0016 Repairs and Costs
| Repair | Estimated cost |
| Diagnostic inspection | $100–$300 |
| Engine oil and filter change | $60–$180 |
| Repair sensor wiring | $100–$500 |
| Replace camshaft position sensor | $150–$450 |
| Replace crankshaft position sensor | $175–$500 |
| Replace VVT solenoid | $150–$500 |
| Replace camshaft phaser | $600–$1,800 |
| Replace timing-belt kit | $700–$2,000 |
| Replace timing-chain tensioner | $500–$1,500 |
| Replace timing chain, guides and tensioners | $1,200–$4,000 |
| Repair cylinder-head damage | $2,500–$6,000+ |
| Replace engine | $4,000–$12,000+ |
| ECM software update | $100–$300 |
| Replace and program ECM | $1,000–$2,500+ |
Repair cost depends on:
- Engine design
- Component accessibility
- Number of timing chains
- Whether valve damage occurred
- Whether additional timing components are replaced
A relatively inexpensive sensor fault should never be assumed until mechanical timing has been evaluated.
Common Diagnostic Mistakes
Replacing the Camshaft Sensor Immediately
P0016 does not automatically mean the camshaft position sensor has failed.
The sensor may be accurately reporting that the camshaft is out of time.
Replacing the Crankshaft Sensor Without Testing It
The crankshaft sensor is another common guess, but replacing it without inspecting the timing system may waste time and money.
Ignoring Timing-Chain Noise
Startup rattle is an important clue.
It may indicate:
- Chain stretch
- Tensioner failure
- Guide wear
- Phaser failure
Ignoring the noise can lead to severe engine damage.
Assuming Fresh Oil Will Repair Mechanical Wear
An oil change may improve a sticking VVT component.
It cannot repair:
- A stretched chain
- Missing timing-belt teeth
- Broken guides
- A failed tensioner
- A shifted reluctor
- Incorrect mechanical timing
Confusing Sensor A and Sensor B
Sensor A usually refers to the intake camshaft.
Sensor B usually refers to the exhaust camshaft.
Always confirm manufacturer terminology.
Confusing Bank 1 and Bank 2
Bank 1 is the side containing cylinder number one.
It is not always on the same side of every engine.
Ignoring Recent Timing Repairs
If P0016 appears immediately after timing-chain, timing-belt or cylinder-head work, verify the installation before replacing electrical components.
Skipping Oil-Pressure Testing
Low oil pressure can affect both the phaser and timing-chain tensioner.
A correct oil level does not guarantee adequate oil pressure.
Failing to Inspect the Reluctor Wheel
A shifted reluctor can create a persistent correlation code even when mechanical timing marks align correctly.
Replacing the ECM Too Early
ECM failure is much less common than:
- Timing-chain wear
- Incorrect timing
- VVT faults
- Sensor problems
- Wiring damage
- Reluctor movement
Test the complete system first.
Vehicles Commonly Affected by P0016
P0016 can appear on nearly any OBD-II vehicle equipped with camshaft and crankshaft position sensors.
Potentially affected manufacturers include:
- Chevrolet
- GMC
- Buick
- Cadillac
- Ford
- Lincoln
- Chrysler
- Dodge
- Jeep
- Toyota
- Lexus
- Honda
- Acura
- Nissan
- Infiniti
- Hyundai
- Kia
- BMW
- Mini
- Mercedes-Benz
- Volkswagen
- Audi
- Mazda
- Subaru
- Volvo
- Mitsubishi
- Suzuki
P0016 is commonly associated with engines using:
- Timing chains
- Hydraulic chain tensioners
- Variable valve timing
- Dual-overhead camshafts
- Oil-controlled camshaft phasers
- Press-fit reluctor wheels
The code alone does not prove that a particular vehicle has a known defect.
Diagnosis must be based on the exact year, make, model, engine and maintenance history.
How to Prevent P0016
Helpful preventive measures include:
- Check the engine oil regularly.
- Use the manufacturer-specified oil viscosity.
- Change the oil and filter on schedule.
- Avoid extended oil-change intervals.
- Use a quality oil filter.
- Repair oil leaks promptly.
- Investigate excessive oil consumption.
- Replace timing belts at the required interval.
- Address startup rattles immediately.
- Diagnose low-oil-pressure warnings promptly.
- Use complete timing-component kits when appropriate.
- Follow exact mechanical timing procedures.
- Use required camshaft and crankshaft locking tools.
- Replace one-time-use bolts and seals.
- Avoid rotating the engine backward unless permitted.
- Verify timing marks before startup after repairs.
Good oil maintenance is especially important on engines with hydraulic tensioners and camshaft phasers.
Frequently Asked Questions About P0016
What does code P0016 mean?
P0016 means the ECM has detected that the Bank 1 intake camshaft and crankshaft are not properly synchronized.
Is Sensor A the intake camshaft?
On most engines, yes.
Sensor A generally refers to the intake camshaft, while Sensor B refers to the exhaust camshaft.
Which side is Bank 1?
Bank 1 is the side containing cylinder number one.
On an inline engine, the entire engine is Bank 1.
Is P0016 usually caused by a timing chain?
A stretched or jumped timing chain is one of the most common causes.
However, the code may also be caused by:
- A timing belt
- VVT problems
- Sensor faults
- Wiring damage
- A shifted reluctor wheel
Can low oil cause P0016?
Yes. Low oil may reduce pressure to the timing-chain tensioner and camshaft phaser, allowing the timing relationship to move outside specification.
Can dirty oil cause P0016?
Yes. Dirty oil may restrict the VVT solenoid, phaser or timing-chain tensioner.
Can the wrong oil viscosity cause P0016?
Yes. Incorrect oil can affect VVT response and hydraulic tensioner operation.
Can a bad camshaft sensor cause P0016?
Yes, but the sensor should be tested.
It may be accurately reporting an actual mechanical timing problem.
Can a bad crankshaft sensor cause P0016?
Yes. A distorted or intermittent crankshaft signal can create an incorrect correlation reading.
Can a bad VVT solenoid cause P0016?
Yes. A sticking solenoid may prevent the intake camshaft from reaching its expected position.
Can a bad camshaft phaser cause P0016?
Yes. A worn or sticking phaser may remain advanced or retarded and trigger a correlation fault.
Can a shifted reluctor wheel cause P0016?
Yes. A shifted camshaft or crankshaft reluctor can change the sensor signal even if the mechanical timing is correct.
Can I drive with P0016?
Limited driving may be possible if the engine runs normally and makes no unusual noise.
However, continued driving is risky because the code may indicate a loose or jumped timing chain.
Can P0016 cause rough idle?
Yes. Incorrect camshaft timing can cause rough idle, misfires and poor acceleration.
Can P0016 cause a no-start condition?
Yes. If the timing chain or belt moves far enough, the engine may crank but fail to start.
Will an oil change fix P0016?
It may help if the problem is caused by dirty oil or a sticking VVT component.
It will not repair a stretched chain, damaged belt, broken guide, failed tensioner or shifted reluctor.
Does P0016 mean the engine is damaged?
Not necessarily.
However, continued operation with incorrect timing can lead to internal engine damage, particularly on an interference engine.
How much does it cost to fix P0016?
A sensor, wiring or VVT solenoid repair may cost a few hundred dollars.
A timing-chain repair may cost approximately $1,200 to $4,000 or more.
If valves or pistons are damaged, repair costs can exceed $5,000.
Will clearing P0016 fix the vehicle?
No. Clearing the code only removes the warning temporarily.
The code will return if the correlation problem remains.
Will P0016 fail an emissions test?
Yes. An active Check Engine Light or emissions-related powertrain code will generally cause an OBD-based emissions inspection failure.
Final Thoughts
The P0016 code means the Bank 1 intake camshaft and crankshaft are no longer properly synchronized.
The most common causes include:
- A stretched or jumped timing chain
- A damaged or incorrectly installed timing belt
- A failed timing-chain tensioner
- Worn timing guides
- Low or dirty engine oil
- Low oil pressure
- A sticking VVT solenoid
- A failed camshaft phaser
- A faulty camshaft or crankshaft sensor
- A shifted reluctor wheel
- Incorrect mechanical timing
Begin diagnosis by checking the engine-oil level and condition, scanning for related codes and listening for timing-chain noise.
Inspect the sensor wiring and compare camshaft and crankshaft signals. If the signals indicate a correlation error, verify oil pressure, VVT operation and mechanical timing before replacing sensors or the ECM.
P0016 should be diagnosed promptly. Addressing it early may prevent a manageable timing-system repair from becoming a complete engine replacement.
For more diagnostic guides, browse our growing OBD-II libraries:
- Complete OBD-II Code Library: https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-obdii/
- Body (B) Codes: https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-doctor/b-code-obd-ii-codes/
- Chassis (C) Codes: https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-doctor/c-code-obd-ii-codes/
Related Articles
- P0011 Code Explained: “A” Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0012 Code Explained: “A” Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
- P0015 Code Explained: “B” Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
- P0016 Code Explained: Crankshaft Position–Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor B
- P0018 Code Explained: Crankshaft Position–Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor A
- P0019 Code Explained: Crankshaft Position–Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 2 Sensor B
