P0016high severityDo not driveP0016 Code: Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1, Sensor A)
Written in plain English and reviewed by the eli5cars editorial team · Last reviewed June 2026
What it means in plain English
Your engine's crankshaft and camshaft(s) must rotate in precise synchronization — even being off by a single tooth on the timing chain can cause major performance problems or engine damage. The ECM constantly compares signals from the crankshaft position sensor and the camshaft position sensor to verify they match the expected relationship. P0016 means the Bank 1 intake camshaft (Sensor A) is reading out of phase with the crankshaft — they don't match up the way they should. This can happen because the timing chain has stretched or jumped a tooth, the VVT (variable valve timing) system has a stuck or failed actuator, oil sludge has gummed up the timing system, or the position sensors themselves are giving faulty data. This code warrants prompt attention — a jumped timing chain can bend valves and destroy an engine.
⛔ Do not drive with this code active
This fault can cause immediate mechanical or safety damage. Have the vehicle towed or inspected before driving.
Most likely causes — ranked
#1 Stretched or jumped timing chain causing cam-to-crank phase error
most likelyFix: A worn timing chain stretches over time, allowing the camshaft to drift out of phase with the crankshaft. If the chain has jumped a tooth, the cam timing will be measurably off. Symptoms include rattling on cold start (chain slap), rough idle, and loss of power. Have a shop perform a cam-to-crank correlation test and inspect the timing chain. A jumped chain must be repaired immediately — continued driving risks catastrophic valve damage. Timing chain replacement is significant engine work.
#2 Stuck or failed VVT (variable valve timing) actuator/phaser on the camshaft
likelyFix: Modern engines use variable valve timing to improve efficiency and power. The VVT actuator (camshaft phaser) shifts the cam timing under ECM control. When an actuator sticks in an advanced or retarded position — often due to oil sludge — the ECM sees a cam position that doesn't match its commanded value and logs P0016. Try an oil change with fresh oil first if service is overdue. If the code persists, the actuator may need replacement.
#3 Faulty VVT solenoid (oil control valve) failing to command camshaft correctly
likelyFix: The VVT solenoid controls oil flow to the cam phaser to advance or retard cam timing. A failed solenoid, clogged with sludge, or with internal wear can prevent the cam from reaching its commanded position. Remove and inspect the solenoid screen for debris. Test the solenoid electrically (check manufacturer resistance spec) and replace if faulty. Solenoid replacement is usually more accessible than the actuator itself.
#4 Low oil level or degraded oil causing inadequate hydraulic pressure to VVT system
likelyFix: The VVT system is hydraulically driven by engine oil pressure. Low oil level, oil that is sludged from extended change intervals, or oil that is too thin for the climate can starve the VVT system of the pressure it needs. Before any part replacement, check the oil level and condition. If it's dark, thick, or low, perform an oil change using the manufacturer-specified viscosity. Clear the code and drive before diagnosing further.
Check engine light on? Get a free code scan
If your check engine light is on, most auto-parts stores (AutoZone, O'Reilly, Advance) will read the code for FREE — no purchase required, just walk in. Bring the code back here and look it up at eli5cars.com/obd2 for the plain-English explanation.
Note: a scan only helps when there's an active fault code. For purely mechanical symptoms (noises, vibrations, leaks), a scan may show nothing — the suspects listed above are your starting point.
Want to read the codes yourself?
First, the free option: AutoZone, O’Reilly, and Advance Auto Parts read your codes for free — no purchase needed. That’s the cheapest way to get the code to look up here. If you’d rather have your own so you can check anytime (and clear a code after a fix), the Veepeak OBDCheck BLE is an inexpensive, reliable plug-in reader that pairs with a free phone app and works on any car sold since 1996.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with P0016?
You should not drive normally with P0016. If the timing chain has jumped, continued driving can bend valves and cause thousands of dollars in engine damage. Drive directly to a repair shop or have the vehicle towed. If the car is running rough, stalling, or making a rattling noise, stop driving immediately.
Will an oil change fix P0016?
Sometimes. If the cause is a VVT solenoid or actuator clogged with sludge from degraded oil, a fresh oil change with the correct viscosity can free the system and clear the code. This is the cheapest first step and worth trying if your oil is dark or overdue. However, if the timing chain has stretched or jumped, no oil change will fix it.
What's the difference between P0016 and P0011?
P0011 means the ECM commanded the camshaft to a specific advanced position but found it stuck there — an over-advanced or stuck actuator. P0016 is a correlation code: the measured cam position simply doesn't match the expected position relative to the crankshaft, regardless of where it's supposed to be. Both can have overlapping causes (VVT actuator, solenoid, oil, timing chain), but P0016 is often more serious because it can indicate a jumped chain.
How do I get a free scan and should I note any other codes?
AutoZone, O'Reilly, and Advance Auto Parts offer free OBD2 scans. P0016 often appears alongside other codes — P0340 (cam sensor), P0335 (crank sensor), P0011, or P0014. Write down all codes present. Multiple timing-related codes together give your mechanic a much clearer picture of what's happening.