P0016
Stop drivingThe engine's computer detects a mismatch between the crankshaft and camshaft positions on Bank 1, Sensor A. This indicates a problem with engine timing.
Code P0016 means your engine's crankshaft and camshaft timing is off. Common causes: Stretched timing chain (50%), faulty VVT actuator (25%), bad cam/crank sensors (20%). Drivability: No, stop driving. Repair cost: $100-$500 DIY, $300-$2500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0016?
No, stop driving
Immediate repair needed. Do not drive the vehicle.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, loud rattling/ticking from engine, significant power loss, engine stalling
Symptoms of P0016
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Engine runs rough or idles poorly
- 3Reduced engine power or acceleration
- 4Engine stalls frequently
- 5Difficulty starting the engine
- 6Engine noise (rattling or ticking)
Common Causes of P0016
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
A stretched timing chain or worn timing belt causes the camshaft and crankshaft to fall out of synchronization.
50% of P0016 cases are fixed by replacing the timing chain or belt
A faulty VVT actuator or cam phaser cannot correctly adjust camshaft timing, leading to a correlation error.
25% of P0016 cases are fixed by replacing the VVT actuator or cam phaser
A faulty camshaft position sensor sends an incorrect or intermittent signal to the engine computer, causing a timing mismatch.
10% of P0016 cases are fixed by replacing the camshaft position sensor
A faulty crankshaft position sensor sends an incorrect or intermittent signal to the engine computer, causing a timing mismatch.
10% of P0016 cases are fixed by replacing the crankshaft position sensor
VVT systems rely on clean, sufficient oil pressure to operate; low or dirty oil can prevent proper cam phaser operation.
5% of P0016 cases are fixed by an oil change and proper oil level
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Check engine oil level and condition. Ensure it's at the correct level and not excessively dirty or sludgy.
- Listen for any rattling or ticking noises from the engine, especially on startup, which can indicate a stretched timing chain.
- Inspect the wiring harnesses and connectors for the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors for any visible damage, fraying, or corrosion.
How to Diagnose P0016
- 1Check engine oil level and condition. Ensure it's full and clean.
- 2Use a scan tool to check for other related codes (P0017, P0018, P0019, P0340, P0335).
- 3Inspect wiring and connectors for the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors for damage or corrosion.
- 4Monitor live data from crankshaft and camshaft position sensors with a scan tool to check for erratic readings.
- 5Perform a visual inspection of the timing chain/belt for slack or damage (if accessible without major disassembly).
- 6Test VVT actuators/solenoids for proper operation and resistance.
- 7If timing chain/belt is suspected, a full inspection requires removal of timing covers.
P0016 on Popular Vehicles
Honda Accord
2003-2024P0016 on Honda Accord models is frequently caused by a failing VTC actuator (cam phaser) or a stretched timing chain, particularly on 4-cylinder engines. Low or dirty oil can exacerbate VTC issues.
60% fixed by VTC actuator or timing chain replacement
Chevrolet Silverado
2007-2024For Chevrolet Silverado trucks, especially those with V8 engines, P0016 often points to a stretched timing chain or issues with the VVT solenoids/cam phasers. Oil pressure issues can also contribute to VVT problems.
65% fixed by timing chain or VVT component replacement
Toyota Camry
2007-2024Toyota Camry models with P0016 can experience issues with the VVT-i actuator (cam phaser) or a stretched timing chain, though less common than on some other makes. Always check oil level and condition first.
55% fixed by VVT-i actuator or timing chain replacement
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0016 mean?
P0016 indicates that the engine's computer has detected a discrepancy between the rotational positions of the crankshaft and camshaft on Bank 1, Sensor A. This means the engine's timing is out of sync.
Can I drive with P0016?
No, stop driving immediately. Driving with a P0016 code risks severe internal engine damage, such as bent valves or piston damage, which can lead to a complete engine failure. This is a critical timing issue.
Will P0016 clear itself?
No, P0016 will not clear itself. This code points to a mechanical or sensor issue that requires diagnosis and repair. The engine computer will continue to detect the timing mismatch until the underlying problem is fixed.
How do I fix P0016 myself?
Start by checking your engine oil level and condition. If that's not the issue, you can try replacing the camshaft or crankshaft position sensors. If those don't fix it, the problem is likely a stretched timing chain or faulty VVT actuator, which are more complex repairs.
How much does it cost to fix P0016?
DIY repair costs range from $100-$500 for sensors or VVT actuators. Professional repair costs range from $300-$800 for sensors/actuators, but can jump to $1000-$2500 or more for a timing chain replacement.
P0016 keeps coming back - why?
If P0016 keeps returning, it indicates the root cause was not addressed. This often happens when only a sensor is replaced, but the actual problem is a stretched timing chain, a faulty VVT actuator, or persistent low/dirty oil affecting the VVT system.
Will P0016 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0016 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on automatically results in a failure, and a timing issue directly impacts engine efficiency and emissions.
What's the difference between P0016 and P0340?
P0016 specifically indicates a correlation problem between the crankshaft and camshaft positions, meaning they are out of sync. P0340 indicates a general malfunction in the camshaft position sensor circuit, which could be a bad sensor, wiring, or connection, but doesn't necessarily mean the timing is off, just that the sensor isn't reporting correctly.
P0016 on Honda Accord
On many Honda Accord models, P0016 is frequently linked to a faulty VTC (Variable Timing Control) actuator, especially if the engine has experienced oil sludge or inconsistent oil changes. A stretched timing chain is also a common cause on higher mileage vehicles.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the engine oil level and condition before diagnosing?
Good answer: Yes, the oil level was full and the oil looked clean. We ruled out oil pressure as a direct cause.
What were the live data readings for the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors?
Good answer: The readings showed a consistent offset of X degrees between the crank and cam, indicating a mechanical timing issue rather than a sensor failure.
Have you inspected the timing chain for slack or wear?
Good answer: Yes, after removing the valve cover, we observed significant slack in the timing chain, confirming it's stretched.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$100-$500
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$300-$2500
Save $200-$2000 by doing it yourself, depending on the cause
Difficulty
advanced
Time
2-12 hours
Professional recommended - while sensor replacement can be intermediate, diagnosing and replacing timing chains or VVT actuators requires specialized knowledge, tools, and experience to ensure correct engine timing.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0016 can lead to catastrophic engine damage. If the timing chain or belt fails completely, valves can hit pistons, requiring a complete engine rebuild or replacement, costing $3,000-$7,000. A $100-$2500 timing repair now prevents a much larger bill later.
While You're In There...
If low or dirty oil contributed to the issue, a fresh oil change is essential for VVT system health and overall engine longevity.
If you're accessing the timing chain, the valve cover will be removed, and replacing the gasket prevents future oil leaks.
On some engines, the water pump is driven by the timing belt/chain and is easily accessible when performing timing component replacement, saving labor later.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Torque wrench
- Engine oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Possibly specialized timing chain/belt tools
- Valve cover gasket set (if inspecting timing chain)
P0016 is a serious code, but it's a known issue. Addressing it promptly prevents catastrophic engine damage. Many vehicles with this code are successfully repaired and return to reliable operation.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Check your engine oil level and condition. Top off or change oil if necessary, as low/dirty oil can cause VVT issues.
Step 2: Use an OBD-II scan tool to check for other related codes and monitor live data from the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors. Look for erratic signals or consistent offsets.
Step 3: If oil is good and sensors appear to be reporting, the problem is likely mechanical. Parts you'll likely need include a timing chain kit (chain, guides, tensioners), VVT actuators/cam phasers, or new crankshaft/camshaft position sensors. This is an advanced repair; consider professional help.