P0016
High SeverityCrankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)
Engine System
What Does P0016 Mean?
The crankshaft and intake camshaft positions are not synchronized on bank 1. This indicates a timing problem that can cause rough running or no-start conditions.
Common Fix
Replace timing chain and tensioner
Estimated Cost (DIY)
$50 - $1,500
Symptoms
- ⚠️Rough idle
- ⚠️Engine misfires
- ⚠️Hard starting or no start
- ⚠️Rattling noise from engine
Related Symptoms
Common Causes
How to Diagnose P0016
- 1Listen for timing chain rattle on cold start
- 2Compare cam and crank sensor signals with scan tool
- 3Inspect timing chain tensioner
- 4Check VVT solenoid function
OEM Diagnostic Flowchart
Scroll to load technician if/then branches.
Read live data and freeze frame for P0016 to pinpoint the cause before buying parts.
Ready to fix it yourself?
Find My Vehicle Repair Guide →Select your exact vehicle for a personalized step-by-step guide
Related Resources
Repair guides, symptom pages, and wiring diagrams related to P0016.
Related Symptoms
Browse →Rough idle often traces back to ignition, air metering, vacuum leaks, or timing-related faults before it becomes a full misfire complaint.
No-crank and no-start complaints usually resolve into battery, starter, alternator, crank sensor, or fuel-delivery diagnosis.
Exact Vehicle Hubs
Browse →Open the exact vehicle hub for a repair workflow commonly associated with P0016.
Open the exact vehicle hub for a repair workflow commonly associated with P0016.
Open the exact vehicle hub for a repair workflow commonly associated with P0016.
Open the exact vehicle hub for a repair workflow commonly associated with P0016.
Open the exact vehicle hub for a repair workflow commonly associated with P0016.
Open the exact vehicle hub for a repair workflow commonly associated with P0016.
Exact Repair Workflows
Browse →Open the exact repair flow most commonly associated with P0016 on this vehicle.
Open the exact repair flow most commonly associated with P0016 on this vehicle.
Open the exact repair flow most commonly associated with P0016 on this vehicle.
Open the exact repair flow most commonly associated with P0016 on this vehicle.
Open the exact repair flow most commonly associated with P0016 on this vehicle.
Open the exact repair flow most commonly associated with P0016 on this vehicle.
Related Codes
The crankshaft and exhaust camshaft positions on bank 1 are out of sync. Similar to P0016 but for the exhaust cam. Often points to timing chain issues.
The intake camshaft on bank 1 is more advanced than the ECM commanded. This typically means the VVT system is stuck or the oil flow is restricted. Often caused by dirty oil or a stuck VVT solenoid.
The ECM is not receiving a proper signal from the crankshaft position sensor. This sensor is critical for engine timing and fuel injection.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is P0016 serious?
- Yes, P0016 can indicate a stretched or jumped timing chain. If the engine rattles on startup, get it checked immediately to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
- Can a sensor cause P0016?
- Yes, a faulty camshaft or crankshaft position sensor can trigger P0016. Sensor replacement is much cheaper than timing chain work.
Related Repair Guides
If your vehicle has triggered P0016, these DIY repair guides may help:

