What does code P0016 mean?

P0016 — Correlation between crankshaft and intake camshaft on Bank 1 is out of spec. ECM sees the two sensors reporting mismatched positions — timing is physically off. Belongs to the powertrain.ignition system. Severity: warning.

What are the common causes of P0016?

Timing chain jumped a tooth (or more) — typical past 150K km; Worn timing chain tensioner or guides; Seized intake VVT phaser — cam won't respond to commands; Damaged reluctor teeth on the camshaft; Timing marks off after a botched chain job

Can I drive with code P0016?

Limited: reaching the nearest workshop is fine, but avoid long trips. May progress into a more serious fault.

How do I diagnose P0016?

Read the code and freeze-frame with a scanner, check related-system errors, inspect the components listed (wiring, connectors, sensors). See the "How to diagnose" section above for the full step-by-step.

How do I clear code P0016?

The code can be cleared via an OBD-II scanner (e.g. ELM327 + the Car Diagnostics app): plug the adapter into the OBD port, go to Errors → Clear. If the underlying cause isn't fixed, the code will return within a few drive cycles.

OBD-II Code P0016 — Car Diagnostics Platform

What it means

Common causes

Timing chain jumped a tooth (or more) — typical past 150K km
Worn timing chain tensioner or guides
Seized intake VVT phaser — cam won't respond to commands
Damaged reluctor teeth on the camshaft
Timing marks off after a botched chain job
Faulty camshaft position sensor

How to diagnose

01
Read all stored and pending codes with an OBD-II adapter — get the full picture, not just the one code.
02
Capture freeze-frame data (RPM, coolant temperature, engine load) at the exact moment the code triggered.
03
Inspect the named subsystem with our app's AI explanation — get vehicle-specific causes for your make, model and year.

Decode P0016 on your actual car

Plug in an OBD-II adapter and get an AI-powered diagnosis tailored to your vehicle make, model and year — in 30 seconds.

Try the demo