GarageGuideEngine timing (crankshaft and camshaft correlation, Bank 1)
P0016 Code: Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)
P0016 stands for "Crankshaft Position – Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)." The crankshaft and camshaft are linked by a timing chain or belt so the valves open at exactly the right moment for each piston. The engine computer watches both shafts through sensors and expects their positions to line up within a narrow range.
P0016 means those positions do not line up as expected. Sometimes the cause is minor, like low oil affecting the variable valve timing parts. Other times it means the timing chain has stretched or the timing has jumped a tooth, which is a serious problem. Finding out which, quickly, is what matters.
P0016 needs prompt attention. If the timing has jumped or the chain is badly stretched, the chain can fail. On many engines, called interference engines, that can let the valves hit the pistons and cause major engine damage.
If the car runs smoothly, check the oil and drive only as much as needed until it is diagnosed. If you hear a loud rattle, the engine runs very rough, or it is hard to start, stop driving and have it towed to protect the engine.
Symptoms you might notice
- Check engine light on
- Rattling noise for a few seconds after a cold start
- Hard starting or extended cranking
- Rough idle or misfiring
- Reduced power or hesitation
- Stalling
Common causes
Stretched timing chain
On higher-mileage chain-driven engines, the chain gradually stretches, putting the camshaft slightly out of time. Certain engines are especially known for this.
Jumped timing
A worn tensioner or guide can let the chain or belt skip a tooth, shifting timing suddenly.
Low or dirty oil
Oil feeds the chain tensioner and the variable valve timing system. Low or sludgy oil can cause slack and timing errors.
Faulty oil control solenoid or phaser
Variable valve timing parts that stick can move the cam out of its expected position.
Camshaft or crankshaft sensor fault
A failing sensor, or a damaged tone ring that the sensor reads, can report a position that is wrong.
Recent timing repair done incorrectly
If the code appeared after timing work, the chain or belt may have been installed one tooth off.
Before you buy parts
P0016 can be as simple as old oil or as serious as a stretched timing chain. Do not just clear it and hope. Check the oil, listen for a cold-start rattle, and have the cam and crank correlation checked soon. Catching a stretching chain early can prevent much more expensive engine damage.
What to check
- Check the oil level and condition first. Top off or change the oil with the correct viscosity if needed.
- Listen for a rattle in the first few seconds after a cold start. A rattle that fades as oil pressure builds is a common sign of a stretched chain or weak tensioner.
- Ask whether any timing belt or chain work was done recently, since an installation error can set this code.
- A shop can read the cam/crank correlation values with a scan tool. Values far out of range point toward a stretched chain; values that change when the VVT solenoid is commanded point toward the solenoid or phaser.
- Confirming the timing marks usually means removing covers, so on most engines that step is for a shop.
Possible repairs
Change the oil
If the oil was low or very dirty, an oil change with the correct oil can clear some P0016 codes caused by poor oil pressure to the timing parts.
Replace the oil control solenoid
A sticking variable valve timing solenoid is a moderate repair on many engines.
Replace a camshaft or crankshaft sensor
If testing shows a sensor is giving a bad signal, replacing it is usually straightforward.
Replace the timing chain kit
A stretched chain is replaced along with its guides and tensioner. This is a major job and usually a shop repair.
Correct the timing
If the timing jumped or was installed wrong, the chain or belt must be reset to the correct marks before more damage occurs.
Parts and tools that may help
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Frequently asked questions
Is P0016 serious?
It can be. Sometimes it is caused by low or dirty oil, but it can also mean a stretched timing chain or jumped timing, which can lead to major engine damage if ignored.
Can I drive with P0016?
Only limited driving if the engine runs smoothly. If it rattles loudly, runs rough, or is hard to start, have it towed.
Does P0016 always mean the timing chain?
No. Low oil, a variable valve timing solenoid, or a sensor can also cause it. But on higher-mileage engines with a cold-start rattle, the chain is a strong suspect.
What is a cold-start rattle?
A rattle or chatter from the front of the engine in the first few seconds after starting, before oil pressure builds. It often means the timing chain has slack.
How much does it cost to fix P0016?
It ranges from an oil change or sensor to a timing chain replacement, which is a large job. Get it diagnosed before assuming the worst.