P0016 Code: Crankshaft–Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)
P0016 means the crankshaft and camshaft position signals are out of sync — they don’t correlate as the ECM expects.
- Applies to
- All OBD-II vehicles (any make or model)
- Est. repair cost
- $150 – $1,200
- Time to fix
- 1-3 hours
What it means
Common causes are a stretched or jumped timing chain, a failed VVT phaser, or a crank/cam sensor or wiring fault. This is a generic OBD-II powertrain code defined in the SAE J2012 standard, so it applies to virtually any 1996-or-newer OBD-II vehicle — cars, trucks, and modern fuel-injected motorcycles — from any manufacturer (Toyota, Honda, Ford and the rest). Read it with any OBD-II scanner; the meaning is the same across brands, though the exact repair can vary by engine.
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Hard starting or no-start
- Rough running, rattle, or poor performance
How to fix it
- 1
Check timing and the sensors
1. Inspect the timing chain/belt for stretch or a jumped tooth. 2. Test the crank and cam position sensors and their wiring. 3. Repair timing/sensor faults, then clear the code.
Frequently asked questions
Is P0016 serious?
It can be — a stretched or jumped timing chain can cause running problems and, in the worst case, engine damage. Diagnose it promptly.
Last updated July 16, 2026
Guidance only — always consult a qualified professional or the official service manual before carrying out repairs.