The P0016 code indicates a potential problem with the timing between the engine’s camshaft and crankshaft. When these two parts are not working together properly, it can affect the engine’s performance.
This article explains the signs of the P0016 code, causes and how to fix.
Table of Contents
What Is P0016 Code?
The code P0016 indicates a mismatch between the camshaft position sensor (CMP) for bank 1 and the crankshaft position sensor (CKP).
These sensors monitor the positions of the camshaft and crankshaft, respectively, in order for the engine to run optimally.
The CMP sends information to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), which uses it to control fuel injection and combustion. If the PCM detects a discrepancy between the camshaft and crankshaft positions, it will trigger code P0016.
Causes
Worn Timing Belt: A timing belt that has become worn or damaged can cause the camshaft and crankshaft to be out of sync, resulting in the P0016 code.
The Camshaft Phaser is Out of Position: The camshaft phaser is responsible for adjusting the timing of the camshaft. If it is out of position, it can cause the camshaft timing to be incorrect, leading to the P0016 code.
Damaged or Bad Connections or Wiring: Connections or wiring that are damaged or have bad connections can cause the camshaft and crankshaft sensor signals to be disrupted, resulting in the P0016 code.
Failure of the Mechanical Oil System: The mechanical oil system is responsible for providing oil pressure to the camshaft phaser. If it fails, the camshaft phaser may not receive enough oil pressure, causing it to be out of position and resulting in the P0016 code.
Bad CKP Sensor: The crankshaft position sensor (CKP) is responsible for providing the engine control module (ECM) with information about the position of the crankshaft. If the CKP sensor is bad, the ECM may not receive accurate information, causing the camshaft and crankshaft to be out of sync and resulting in the P0016 code.
The Camshaft Timing is Out of Position: If the camshaft timing is out of position due to the timing chain jumping teeth, it can cause the camshaft and crankshaft to be out of sync, resulting in the P0016 code.
Bad Camshaft Phaser: If the camshaft phaser is bad, it may not be able to adjust the camshaft timing correctly, resulting in the P0016 code.
Bad CMP Sensor: The camshaft position sensor (CMP) is responsible for providing the ECM with information about the position of the camshaft. If the CMP sensor is bad, the ECM may not receive accurate information, causing the camshaft and crankshaft to be out of sync and resulting in the P0016 code.
Insufficient Engine Oil: Engine oil is important for lubricating the mechanical components of the engine, including the camshaft phaser. If there is not enough engine oil, the camshaft phaser may not receive enough lubrication, causing it to be out of position and resulting in the P0016 code.
Damaged Timing Chain Tensioner: The timing chain tensioner is responsible for maintaining the proper tension on the timing chain. If it is damaged, the timing chain may become loose, causing the camshaft and crankshaft to be out of sync and resulting in the P0016 code.
Dirty Engine Oil: Dirty engine oil can cause debris to accumulate in the oil passages, clogging the oil control valve (OCV) filter and causing the OCV to have a restriction. This can result in the camshaft and crankshaft being out of sync and the P0016 code.
Oil Control Valve (OCV) Has a Restriction: The OCV is responsible for controlling the oil pressure to the camshaft phaser. If there is a restriction in the OCV filter, the camshaft phaser may not receive enough oil pressure, causing it to be out of position and resulting in the P0016 code.
Stretched Timing Chain: A stretched timing chain can cause the camshaft and crankshaft to be out of sync, resulting in the P0016
Symptoms
1. Excessive noise coming from the timing chain
A loud clattering noise that can be heard coming from the front of the engine may indicate a problem with the timing chain. This noise is often more noticeable when the engine is running at higher RPMs.
“Check Engine Light starts illumination”: The Check Engine Light (CEL) may illuminate due to a problem with the timing chain. This light is often accompanied by an error code, such as P0016, which can be read using an OBD-II scanner.
“The engine runs erratically or feels rough while running”: If the timing chain is not functioning correctly, the engine may misfire, resulting in a rough or erratic running condition. This can be felt as a vibration or shaking in the vehicle and may cause reduced engine power and poor performance.
“Poor engine performance”: A faulty timing chain can cause a decrease in engine performance, as the engine may not be able to properly ignite the fuel mixture. This can result in a lack of power and acceleration, as well as reduced fuel efficiency.
“Engine stalling or idling issues”: A problem with the timing chain can cause the engine to stall or idle roughly. This can be especially noticeable when the engine is idle, and may cause the vehicle to shake or vibrate.
“The engine may have starting issues or will not start at all”: A faulty timing chain can cause the engine to not start, or to have difficulty starting. This is often due to the engine timing being out of sync, causing the fuel mixture to not ignite correctly.
“Poor fuel economy”: If the timing chain is not functioning correctly, it can cause the engine to run less efficiently, resulting in increased fuel consumption and reduced fuel economy.
“Timing chain noise”: A loud clattering or rattling noise coming from the front of the engine may indicate a problem with the timing chain. This noise may be more noticeable when the engine is running at higher RPMs, and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as reduced engine performance, rough idling, and starting issues.
How To Fix P0016 Error Code
Here are the step by step procedure to fix P0016 error code.
- Check visually for issues with oil control valves, CMP sensor, CKP sensor, and wiring.
- Ensure engine oil is at the correct level, clean, and has proper viscosity. Low oil can cause P0016.
- Read all other engine codes and review freeze frame data to see when code was triggered.
- Clear Check Engine Light and go for a test drive to see if code persists.
- Test oil control valve to verify if CMP sensor is warning of bank 1 camshaft timing change.
- Perform manufacturer’s recommended tests for P0016 code to identify root cause