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P0016 — Crankshaft Position Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor

Generic OBD-II · all makesPowertrain (engine & transmission)

P0016 indicates that the powertrain control module has detected a misalignment between the crankshaft and the bank 1 camshaft position signals. This correlation error means the camshaft is not in the expected rotational position relative to the crankshaft during engine operation. It typically points to a mechanical timing issue, a variable valve timing fault, or a sensor signal problem.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Stretched or jumped timing chain/belt, or incorrect base timing

Wear or failure in the timing drive can allow the camshaft and crankshaft to fall out of synchronization. Physical misalignment is one of the most common root causes of a true correlation fault.

2. Variable valve timing (VVT) phaser or actuator failure

A stuck, damaged, or internally leaking phaser can alter camshaft timing beyond the commanded range. This prevents the cam from returning to its expected correlated position with the crankshaft.

3. Faulty camshaft/crankshaft position sensor or wiring

Degraded sensors, damaged wiring, or poor connections can produce erratic or delayed signals. The PCM may interpret these electrical irregularities as a mechanical correlation error.

4. Contaminated or incorrect engine oil affecting VVT operation

Sludge, debris, or oil of the wrong viscosity can clog VVT solenoids or restrict phaser movement. Without proper oil pressure and flow, the camshaft cannot achieve its target advance or retard position.

5. Damaged or misaligned reluctor ring/tone wheel

A cracked, chipped, or incorrectly installed reluctor ring on the cam or crank will generate an inaccurate signal pattern. This distorts the positional reference used by the PCM for correlation monitoring.

6. PCM software or internal controller fault

Although uncommon, corrupted software or a rare internal PCM fault can miscalculate the expected relationship between the two position sensors. This should only be considered after all mechanical and electrical causes are eliminated.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Inspect camshaft and crankshaft position sensors, connectors, and wiring for corrosion, damage, or loose terminals.
  2. Check engine oil level, condition, and specification; verify the oil is not heavily sludged and meets the required viscosity.
  3. Use a scan tool to compare commanded versus actual camshaft timing data, or perform a cam/crank correlation test if supported.
  4. Capture and analyze camshaft and crankshaft sensor waveforms with an oscilloscope to verify clean, consistent signal patterns.
  5. Remove timing covers as necessary and inspect timing alignment marks, chain tension, and reluctor rings for physical damage or a jumped tooth.
  6. If all mechanical and sensor tests are normal, investigate available PCM software updates or consider an extremely rare controller fault.

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make
Related codesP0010 — Camshaft Position Actuator Control CirP0011 — Camshaft Position Timing Over AdvancP0012 — Camshaft Position Timing Over RetardP0013 — B Camshaft Position Actuator Control CP0014 — B Camshaft Position Timing Over AdvaP0015 — B Camshaft Position Timing Over Reta

Frequently asked

Is it safe to drive with a P0016 code?

It is not recommended. The engine may run roughly, lack power, or stall, and if the timing is mechanically off, continued driving risks internal engine damage.

Can a bad camshaft position sensor alone cause P0016?

Yes. A failing sensor or poor circuit connection can send an erratic signal that the PCM interprets as a correlation error, even when the mechanical timing is correct.

Should I replace the PCM to fix P0016?

Usually no. A faulty PCM is a rare cause of this code. Most cases stem from mechanical timing issues, VVT component failures, or sensor problems. The PCM should be the last component investigated after all other causes are ruled out.

Can old or dirty engine oil trigger this code?

Yes. Oil that is sludged or of the wrong viscosity can clog VVT solenoids and prevent the phaser from adjusting, resulting in a detected correlation error between the crankshaft and camshaft.