Crankshaft/camshaft correlation fault (Bank 1 Sensor A)
The controller sees an unexpected relationship between the crankshaft signal and Bank 1 camshaft sensor A signal. A identifies the intake, left or front camshaft according to engine design. Electrical signal problems and mechanical timing faults must be distinguished before repairs. Bank 1 is the side containing cylinder 1.
Can I keep driving?
If there is timing noise, starting difficulty, stalling, severe shaking or an oil pressure warning, stop using the vehicle and arrange a tow. Even if it seems normal, seek an assessment before further driving because correlation trouble can be mechanical.
Flashing light, burning smell or smoke? Pull over safely. Danger to life: call 911.
What does this code mean for your car?
The same code can need different checks depending on the model and engine. Enter your vehicle details to find relevant sources and checks.
Symptoms
- Hard starting or failure to start
- Shaking, stalling or reduced power
- Abnormal timing noise with the check engine light
Possible causes
- 1Mechanical timing misalignment, including chain, belt or tensioner trouble
- 2Cam phaser or oil control not reaching the expected position
- 3Distorted signal from the crankshaft sensor or relevant camshaft sensor
- 4Wiring, trigger wheel or incorrect installation after timing work
These possibilities are not ranked by frequency and do not diagnose your vehicle.
Checks you can safely do yourself
Safe checks only: engine off and cold, car on level ground.
- Save all codes and any freeze-frame data your scanner displays before clearing or repairs.
- Note whether the fault followed an oil service, sensor replacement or timing work; do not attempt timing adjustment yourself.
When you need a shop
Ask the shop to compare crankshaft and camshaft waveforms with a known-good reference for this engine, inspect wiring and trigger wheels, and verify timing commands and mechanical alignment where indicated. A new sensor cannot correct mechanical misalignment.
How much does it cost?
A US repair estimate needs a diagnosis and a local shop quote.
We do not have a verified US repair quote for this fault. Request 2-3 itemized estimates after diagnosis; vehicle, parts and labor determine the cost.
Get 2-3 quotes
Investigate this code for my carFAQ
Can I keep driving with P0016?
If there is timing noise, starting difficulty, stalling, severe shaking or an oil pressure warning, stop using the vehicle and arrange a tow. Even if it seems normal, seek an assessment before further driving because correlation trouble can be mechanical.
What can cause this code?
Possibilities include mechanical timing misalignment, including chain, belt or tensioner trouble; cam phaser or oil control not reaching the expected position; distorted signal from the crankshaft sensor or relevant camshaft sensor; wiring, trigger wheel or incorrect installation after timing work. The code does not rank causes or identify a part that must be replaced.
Does clearing the code fix the fault?
No. Clearing the code does not repair its cause or prove the fault is absent. It can erase diagnostic data and reset readiness monitors. Even if the code does not reappear immediately, the repair needs verification using the tests appropriate to the vehicle.
What if this code appears during a pre-purchase check?
Arrange an independent professional inspection before buying, including stored data, readiness status and written diagnostic findings. Ask the shop to compare crankshaft and camshaft waveforms with a known-good reference for this engine, inspect wiring and trigger wheels, and verify timing commands and mechanical alignment where indicated. A new sensor cannot correct mechanical misalignment.
How much does repairing P0016 cost?
We do not have a verified US repair quote for this fault. Request 2-3 itemized estimates after diagnosis; vehicle, parts and labor determine the cost.