P0016 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that stands for “Camshaft Position A – Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1).” Here the “A” points at the intake camshaft (intake cam), located on the intake side of the cylinder head. And “Bank 1” represents the engine bank containing the number 1 cylinder.
The P0016 OBD-II generic code is triggered to alert you that the camshaft position sensor (CMP sensor) for Bank 1 isn’t correlating with the crankshaft position sensor (CKP sensor).
The camshaft position sensor detects camshaft rotation, and forwards the information to your car’s Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM then uses that data to control the fuel injectors used for ignition timing to keep cylinders firing correctly.
The crankshaft position sensor relays the crankshaft position and engine revolutions per minute (RPM) to the PCM. And again, the Powertrain Control Module uses the data to control ignition timing and fuel injection.
If the signal from the CMP or CKP sensor is inaccurate or faulty, the PCM can’t manage engine timing efficiently, resulting in startup and idling issues.
The P0016 code is stored when the PCM perceives that the Bank 1 intake camshaft and crankshaft aren’t in sync, based on the data feed from the CMP sensor and CKP sensor.
Here are some of the symptoms you’ll likely notice when your car triggers a P0016 OBD-II trouble code:
There may also be no noticeable damaging conditions in some cases.
The DTC P0016 is severe. That’s because your camshaft and crankshaft aren’t lining up accurately.
So stop driving immediately if code P0016 is triggered and get it fixed ASAP.
Remember, driving your car for a prolonged period with the camshafts out of time can cause additional internal engine problems — depending on the failed part. So it’s best to get the code fixed, possibly the same day, to avoid internal engine damage.
Moreover, your car is likely to be hard to start, or the engine may hesitate and stall.
Here are some of the causes of generic code P0016:
Your mechanic will use an OBD-II scan tool to verify a diagnostic trouble code like P0016. Here’s how they’ll go about the DTC P0016 diagnosis:
For a persistent P0016 code, the following repairs may be necessary:
The actual cost of fixing the P0016 code depends on the severity of the problem and the required equipment.
You can expect to spend $30-$50 for a simple oil change if the problem is due to a stuck camshaft phaser or even because of a faulty wiring or wiring harness.
However, if the DTC is triggered due to a broken timing chain, timing belt, or tensioner, the cost can go up to $200-$1000 for parts and labor. It depends on the make, model, and parts of your car.
Select your vehicles year, make, and model and the repair service you need.
Get a free quote, book an appointment, and speak to a specialist – all online!
Pick a time that works best for you and our mobile mechanics will bring the shop to you.