P0016: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)
Can you still drive? Not recommended. A timing chain that has jumped can cause catastrophic engine damage on interference engines. Have the vehicle inspected immediately.
What Does P0016 Mean?
Code P0016 indicates that the crankshaft and intake camshaft position sensors on bank 1 are not in the expected relationship. The ECM continuously compares these two signals to verify proper valve timing. When the signals are out of correlation, it can indicate a timing chain problem, VVT system fault, or sensor issue.
Need to read your codes?
An OBD-II scanner lets you read and clear diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle's computer. Most scanners work with any car made after 1996.
Browse OBD-II Scanners on AmazonCommon Causes
- Stretched timing chain
- Worn timing chain tensioner or guides
- Faulty VVT actuator or solenoid
- Incorrect engine oil viscosity
- Failed camshaft or crankshaft position sensor
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Rough running engine
- Rattling noise from timing chain area
- Hard starting
- Reduced engine power
Diagnostic Steps
- 1Check engine oil level and verify correct viscosity
- 2Compare crankshaft and camshaft sensor waveforms with oscilloscope
- 3Monitor VVT system operation with scan tool
- 4Listen for timing chain rattle at startup
- 5Inspect timing chain tensioner for proper operation
- 6Test VVT solenoid electrically and mechanically
- 7Perform timing chain stretch test
Recommended Parts & Tools
timing chain kit
camshaft position sensor
Estimated Repair Cost
| Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Total Repair Cost Range | $100 - $3000 |
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Chat with AI About P0016Commonly Affected Vehicles
Related Recalls
1 Active Recall — 2026 Chevrolet Equinox
The following NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for this vehicle. Contact your dealer to check if your vehicle is affected.
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
General Motors has decided that certain 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV, 2025-2026 Cadillac OPTIQ, Chevrolet Colorado, Equinox EV, GMC Canyon, 2026 Buick Enclave, Envision, Cadillac CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, LYRIQ, VISTIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Corvette Convertible, Corvette Coupe, Corvette Convertible E-Ray, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, Silverado EV, Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Hummer EV Pickup, Hummer EV SUV, Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, Sierra EV, Terrain, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The radio may not have been set to the correct status to download the electronic owner's manual during production. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, “Occupant Protection.”
Remedy: Dealers will reset the vehicle radio, which will facilitate automatic download of the electronic owner’s manual, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 13, 2026. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-866-467-9700, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. The manufacturer's number for this recall is N252540430. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on February 26, 2026.
Data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is P0016 serious?
Yes, P0016 can indicate a timing chain problem. On interference engines, a jumped timing chain can cause pistons to strike valves, resulting in thousands of dollars in damage.
How much does a timing chain replacement cost?
A timing chain replacement typically costs $1,000-$3,000 depending on the engine. It is a labor-intensive repair requiring significant engine disassembly.
Community Fix Reports
Community reports are user-submitted and not verified by Auto AI Buddy. Results may vary.
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