P0016 P0xxx · Powertrain (P) High severity
Crankshaft / Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)
The relative position between crank and cam is outside the learned window. This is a mechanical timing problem until proven otherwise — stretched chain, jumped tooth, or a badly worn tensioner.
Severity guidance: High — stop driving and diagnose now; risk of further damage
Symptoms you will notice
- Hard start or no start
- Severe misfire
- Rattle from the front of the engine
- Possible piston-to-valve contact on interference engines
Common causes
Ordered from most to least likely — start at the top.
- 1 Stretched or jumped timing chain / belt
- 2 Failed chain tensioner or guide
- 3 Wrongly installed timing components after a repair
- 4 Damaged reluctor wheel or sensor wiring (less common)
How to diagnose it
Cheapest and least invasive first — most of these codes are not a parts problem.
- ✓ Check whether the engine still starts and runs smoothly — if it rattles, stop and inspect before further cranking.
- ✓ Read cam/crank correlation PIDs and compare against specification.
- ✓ Remove the front cover / inspection plug and verify timing marks physically.
- ✓ Scope crank and cam signals together to confirm the mechanical offset.
Repair options
- Timing chain / belt and tensioner replacement with the correct locking tools
- Re-time the engine to factory marks
- Compression and leak-down test if valve contact is suspected
P0016 — frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive? +
No. On an interference engine a jumped tooth can destroy valves. Have it inspected before further driving.
Can a sensor cause it? +
Rarely. About 90% of P0016 cases are mechanical timing, not sensors.
Confirm the diagnosis before you buy parts
Send us the code, freeze-frame data and the vehicle — our engineers will tell you what to test first.