P0016: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1, Sensor A)
P0016 means the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors disagree about where the engine is in its cycle. The computer compares the two signals; when the relationship falls outside tolerance, it concludes valve timing is mechanically out of sync or a sensor is reporting incorrectly.
Can I still drive with P0016?
No, in most cases
If valve timing has genuinely slipped, continuing to drive risks valves striking pistons and destroying the engine. If the engine is rattling, running very roughly or struggling to start, do not drive it — have it towed. This is one of the codes where caution is genuinely warranted rather than boilerplate.
What you will actually notice
- Hard starting or extended cranking before it fires
- Rough running and noticeable power loss
- Rattling from the timing chain area
- Check engine light
- In some cases the engine will not start at all
Causes, ordered by how often they turn out to be the fault
1.Stretched timing chain or worn tensioner
Very commonThe most likely mechanical cause, and the one this code is best known for.
2.Failing camshaft phaser or variable valve timing actuator
CommonOften accompanied by P0011.
3.Low oil level or pressure, or overdue oil
CommonCheck the dipstick first. Timing components depend on oil pressure.
4.Faulty camshaft or crankshaft position sensor
CommonCheaper than chain work, so test before assuming the worst.
5.Damaged reluctor ring or tone wheel
Less commonProduces an erratic signal.
6.Timing chain jumped a tooth
Less commonSerious. Often follows a chain that was rattling and ignored.
How to diagnose it, cheapest test first
Work down this list in order. The most expensive mistake with this code is replacing a costly part before ruling out a cheap one.
- 1
Check oil level and condition immediately
FreeLow or degraded oil causes timing components to misbehave and is free to rule out.
- 2
Read all stored codes
Free at most parts storesP0011 or P0017 alongside this narrows the diagnosis considerably.
- 3
Listen for chain rattle on a cold start
FreeA rattle that fades after a second or two strongly suggests chain or tensioner wear.
- 4
Inspect camshaft and crankshaft sensors and their wiring
LowA failed sensor is far cheaper than a chain, so eliminate it first.
- 5
Compare camshaft and crankshaft signals on a scan tool or scope
ModerateShows whether the disagreement is electrical or mechanical.
- 6
Inspect timing chain stretch and tensioner condition mechanically
HighRequires significant disassembly on most engines.
What the repairs typically cost
| Repair | Estimated range |
|---|---|
| Oil and filter changeDo this first regardless. It is cheap and occasionally sufficient. | $50 – $150 |
| Camshaft or crankshaft position sensor replacementWhen testing implicates the sensor rather than the chain. | $150 – $500 |
| Timing chain, guides and tensioner replacementLabour-dominated and varies enormously by engine. | $1,200 – $3,500 |
| Camshaft phaser replacementOften done together with chain work to avoid repeating the labour. | $600 – $2,000 |
Estimate only. Ranges vary widely by region, vehicle and shop rate, and are not quotes. Always get a written estimate before authorising work.
Notes for specific makes
General Motors
Timing chain stretch on several four-cylinder engines is a well-documented cause of this code.
Ford
On some engines the chain and phasers are replaced together as a matter of course, since the labour overlaps almost entirely.
Hyundai / Kia
Oil maintenance history is highly relevant. Check service records.
BMW
Timing chain issues on certain engines are widely reported and worth researching for your specific model and year.
Common questions
Can I drive with P0016?
Generally no. If the timing has genuinely slipped, driving risks valve-to-piston contact and a destroyed engine. Have the car towed rather than driven to a shop.
Is it always the timing chain?
No, and that matters because the chain is by far the most expensive outcome. A failed position sensor produces the same code for a fraction of the cost, so insist that sensors are tested first.
Why does oil matter so much for this code?
The chain tensioner and camshaft phasers are hydraulically operated. Low or degraded oil lets the chain go slack and the phasers drift, which is exactly what this code detects.
The engine rattles for two seconds on start-up. Is that related?
Very likely. That is the classic sound of a worn chain tensioner losing oil pressure while parked, and it often precedes this code.
Not sure which of these applies to your car?
Describe what the car is actually doing and get a diagnosis narrowed to your vehicle, or find a shop near you.
AI-generated and informational only. This is not a diagnosis of your specific vehicle and does not replace inspection by a qualified technician.