P0016 OBD-II Trouble Code: Camshaft Position A - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1)

P0016 code definition

Camshaft Position A - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1)

What the P0016 code means

P0016 is the OBD-II generic code indicating that the camshaft position sensor for bank 1 does not correlate to the signal from the crankshaft position sensor.

What causes the P0016 code?

• The camshaft timing is out of position due to the timing chain jumped teeth.

• The camshaft phaser is out of position due to problems with phaser.

• The oil has flow to the phaser is impeded from having an incorrect oil viscosity or partly clogged passages.

• The Oil Control Valve (OCV) has a restriction in the OCV filter.

What are the symptoms of the P0016 code?

• The Check Engine Light comes on.
• The engine may have a reduction in power or start hard.
• The engine may run erratically, stall, hesitate, or run rough.
• The engine's fuel mileage will decrease.

Note: The erratic drive complaints will vary depending on the failure.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0016 code?

• Visually checks for problems with the connections or wiring of the OCV, camshaft and crankshaft sensors

• Verifies that the engine oil is full and that the oil is clean with the correct viscosity

• Scans and documents the engine codes and views the freeze frame data to see when the code was set

• Resets the Check Engine Light and road tests again to see if code returns

• Commands the OCV on and off to see if the camshaft sensor is indicating timing changes for the bank 1 camshaft

• Performs the manufacturer’s tests for the P0016 code to determine the cause of the code

Note: The manufacturer's recommended pinpoint test is used to narrow down the problem. Following the recommended tests will help with diagnosis without replacing the wrong parts.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0016 code

• Not verifying the failure and codes before attempting any repairs

• Not doing a visual check for possible problems with the wiring or connections to the components

• Not doing all pinpoint test steps to help prevent misdiagnosis of good components

• Not replacing parts directed by the pinpoint test or visually checking them to make sure they are bad

How serious is the P0016 code?

• The engine can have stalling or hesitations along with hard starting.

• The timing chain may have problems with tensioners or guides and can lead to major engine damage if the valves hit the pistons.

• Driving the vehicle for a prolonged time with the camshafts out of time may cause additional internal engine problems, depending on the failed part.

What repairs can fix the P0016 code?

• Resetting the fault codes and performing a road test
• Replacing the camshaft sensor on bank 1
• Repairing the wiring or connection to the camshaft OCV or camshaft sensor
• Replacing the camshaft OCV for bank 1 exhaust camshaft
• Replacing the timing chain and guides

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0016 code

• The code P0016 can be due to the camshaft sensor for bank 1 having an internal intermittent problem due to vibration or heat. These problems may or may not be able to be verified. If repeated attempts to find the failure end up in not verifying the code, then suspect a failing camshaft sensor.

Need help with a P0016 code?

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