P0016: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)
P0016 is a common code on GM 5.3L, Ford Ecoboost, and Nissan VQ engines. Always try oil + solenoid first before authorizing timing chain work.
Severity: serious · System: Powertrain · Safe to drive: no — get it checked. Take seriously. Ignoring a stretched chain can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Symptoms
- Rough idle
- Loss of power
- Hard start
- Rattling from timing area
Common causes
- Stretched timing chain
- Cam phaser failure
- VVT solenoid issue
- Low oil
Fair repair prices
| Oil change (correct viscosity) | $60–$150 |
|---|---|
| VVT solenoid | $250–$500 |
| Timing chain / phaser job | $1,500–$3,500 |
Ranges are US market averages (parts and labor). If your shop's quote is above the high end, ask for a line-item breakdown or run it through the invoice checker.
Other codes
- P0300 — Random / Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
- P0301 — Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
- P0420 — Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
- P0430 — Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 2)
- P0171 — System Too Lean (Bank 1)
- P0174 — System Too Lean (Bank 2)
- P0442 — Evaporative Emission Control System Leak (Small)
- P0455 — Evaporative Emission Control System Leak (Large)