P0016 – Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)

What does P0016 mean?

The crankshaft and camshaft position sensors are reporting positions that do not correlate the way the computer expects. The engine computer relies on these two signals staying in a precise relationship to time fuel injection and ignition. When they drift apart, P0016 sets.

What causes P0016?

Listed from most to least common:

1. 1Stretched or worn timing chain
2. 2Failed timing chain tensioner or guide
3. 3Camshaft phaser or variable valve timing actuator fault
4. 4Low or dirty engine oil affecting VVT operation
5. 5Clogged VVT oil control valve screen
6. 6Failing camshaft or crankshaft position sensor
7. 7Timing chain jumped a tooth

Code breakdown

Common symptoms

• Check engine light on
• Rough running or rattling noise, especially on cold start
• Hard starting or extended cranking
• Loss of power
• Rattle from the timing cover area

How to diagnose

1. 1Check engine oil level and condition immediately — low or sludgy oil is a frequent cause because VVT systems depend on oil pressure.
2. 2Listen for timing chain rattle on cold start, which strongly suggests chain or tensioner wear.
3. 3Inspect and clean the VVT oil control valve and its filter screen.
4. 4Compare camshaft and crankshaft correlation using live data.
5. 5If a chain problem is suspected, inspect timing marks directly — this requires partial disassembly but is necessary for a definitive answer.
6. 6Test the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors before assuming mechanical failure.

This can indicate timing chain stretch or jumped timing, which risks serious engine damage on interference engines. Do not ignore this code.

Common fixes and estimated costs

Costs are rough US estimates including parts and labor. Actual pricing varies significantly by vehicle, region, and shop rates.

Good to know

Neglected oil changes are a leading contributor to this code, because VVT phasers and chain tensioners rely on clean oil at proper pressure. On interference engines, a chain that jumps far enough can cause valve-to-piston contact and major damage — treat persistent P0016 with rattle as urgent.

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