P0016: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor A
What Does P0016 Mean?
P0016 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor A. This code relates to the fuel and air metering system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 23 different vehicle models.
P0016 is a critical correlation code — the ECU compares the crankshaft position sensor signal with the Bank 1 intake camshaft position sensor signal and finds they don't match the expected relationship. This can mean the timing chain has stretched, jumped a tooth, or the VVT system has pushed the camshaft beyond its expected range. On interference engines, this code should be treated urgently because a jumped timing chain can cause pistons to strike valves.
Common affected vehicles: Toyota Camry/Corolla (2AR-FE, 2GR-FE), Nissan Altima/Sentra (QR25DE), GM Equinox/Terrain (2.4L Ecotec), Honda Accord/Civic (K24, R20), BMW 3-Series (N20/N26), Ford Escape/Focus (EcoBoost). Toyota vehicles typically develop VVT issues around 100K-120K miles. GM Ecotec engines are notorious for timing chain stretch between 60K-120K miles, which was the subject of a class-action lawsuit. Nissan QR25DE engines commonly show VVT codes around 80K-130K miles.
**What To Expect at the Shop for P0016:** When you bring your vehicle to a mechanic for P0016, here's what a thorough diagnostic should include: (1) The technician should connect a professional scan tool and read not just the stored code, but also freeze frame data — this shows the exact conditions (RPM, coolant temp, vehicle speed, fuel trims) when the code was set. (2) They should check for related codes that may point to a root cause. (3) A visual inspection of relevant components and wiring should be performed before any parts are replaced. (4) On reputable shops, diagnostic time is typically 0.5-1.0 hours ($50-$150) before any repair work begins. (5) Be wary of shops that want to immediately replace parts based solely on the code number without performing diagnosis — codes indicate symptoms, not specific failed parts.
Symptoms of P0016
- ⚠️ check engine light
- ⚠️ rough running or misfire
- ⚠️ hard starting or no start
- ⚠️ rattling from timing chain area
- ⚠️ loss of power
Common Causes
- 🔍 Stretched or jumped timing chain
- 🔍 Faulty VVT solenoid
- 🔍 Faulty camshaft or crankshaft position sensor
- 🔍 Low engine oil affecting VVT operation
- 🔍 Worn timing chain tensioner or guides
P0016 Reports by Year
Real Owner Reports
From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.
"WHILE PULLING INTO DRIVEWAY AT LOW SPEED ENGINE STARTED SURGING AND WOULD NOT SLOW. SHIFTING TRANSMISSION INTO NEUTRAL ALLOWED VEHICLE TO BE STOPPED. ENGINE CONTINUING SURGING UNTIL TURNED OFF. MECHANIC FOUND CODES P0011 INTAKE CAMSHAFT POSITION TIMING OVER-ADVANCED (BANK 1) AND P0016 CRAFTSHAFT P"
— Ford Escape owner, 12/12/2017
"My 2019 Ford Escape Eco Boost Titanium vehicle is currently loosing antifreeze at an alarming rate. I had the error codes read and I have four. The first, P0303, states cylinder #3 is misfiring. The second, P0141, says the heater in 02 sensor is taking too long to warm up. The third, P0016, states t"
— Ford Escape owner, 01/10/2025
"THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON A GAVE A READING OF P0016, WHICH IS A CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR. TOOK MY EXPLORER TO FRED BEANS FORD IN MECHANICSBURG, PA. FOR INSPECTION. THEY TOLD ME THE CAM PHASERS ARE COMPUTER CONTROLLED CAMSHAFT GEARS. THE VARIABLE VALVE TIMING SYSTEM OPERATES WHEN THE ENGINE COMPUTER ("
— Ford Explorer owner, 04/28/2021
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Most Reported Vehicles for P0016
Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
| # | Vehicle | Reports |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS | |
| 2 | CHEVROLET EQUINOX | |
| 3 | MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS | |
| 4 | GMC TERRAIN | |
| 5 | CHEVROLET MALIBU | |
| 6 | CHEVROLET TRAVERSE | |
| 7 | VOLKSWAGEN JETTA | |
| 8 | FORD ESCAPE | |
| 9 | FORD EXPLORER | |
| 10 | DODGE CHARGER | |
| 11 | JEEP WRANGLER | |
| 12 | VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT | |
| 13 | GMC ACADIA | |
| 14 | GMC YUKON | |
| 15 | FORD EXPEDITION |
P0016 Reports by Vehicle
Detailed NHTSA complaint analysis for each vehicle model.
Diagnostic Tips
- Scan all modules, save freeze-frame data, and clear unrelated history codes before focusing on P0016.
- Confirm whether companion codes are present first; they often identify the root cause sooner than the headline DTC.
- Prioritize inspection around engine and the most common failure path for this code family.
- Compare commanded vs actual cam/crank angle at idle and during light acceleration to detect actuator or phaser drift.
- After each repair step, complete one drive cycle and verify readiness monitors instead of judging success after a quick idle test.
- If the code keeps returning on high-incidence platforms (for example MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS), check TSB patterns and wiring/connector fitment before major part replacement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Skipping freeze-frame review and losing the exact RPM/load conditions when the fault set.
- ❌ Replacing cam sensors before validating oil condition/pressure and actuator control performance.
- ❌ Clearing P0016 and returning the car before monitors complete — this often creates repeat visits.
- ❌ Treating intermittent wiring or connector faults as permanent component failure without wiggle testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is P0016 serious?
How do I know if my engine is an interference engine?
Can P0016 be caused by a bad sensor?
How long do VVT solenoids last?
Can I use synthetic oil with VVT engines?
Reported Repair Costs for P0016
Based on 24 owner-reported repair costs from NHTSA complaints.
⚠️ These are owner-reported costs, not estimates. Actual costs vary by location, labor rates, and root cause. Source: NHTSA complaints database.
What To Do Next
Possible Fixes
- 🔧 Change engine oil first (cheapest test)
- 🔧 Replace VVT solenoid
- 🔧 Replace timing chain, tensioner, and guides
-
1
Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
-
2
Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
-
3
Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.