Fix P0016: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The Code P0016: Cam-Crank Correlation Error points out a discrepancy between the timing of the camshaft and the crankshaft in the engine, and most likely is caused by a faulty sensor, mechanical timing issues, or wear and tear of the timing components.

P0016 quick overview

Meaning	P0016: Cam-Crank Correlation Error
Is it serious?	Yes, it can lead to engine performance issues, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential engine damage if not addressed.
Possible causes	– Faulty camshaft or crankshaft position sensors – Timing chain or belt wear or misalignment – Stretched timing components – Engine oil contamination or incorrect viscosity – Faulty engine control module (ECM) – Loose or damaged crank pulley or reluctor ring
How to diagnose?	– Check the error code using an OBD-II scanner. – Inspect camshaft and crankshaft position sensors for damage or faulty connections. – Check the engine oil for contamination or incorrect viscosity. – Manually inspect the timing components for wear or misalignment. – Ensure the crank pulley and reluctor ring are properly seated and undamaged. – Consider using advanced diagnostic tools, such as waveform comparison, to check cam and crank alignment. – If the code persists, consult a specialist or seek further diagnostics for potential ECM issues.
What is Engine timing?	– Refers to the precise moment the spark plugs ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine’s cylinders. – Coordinates the movement of the pistons and the opening and closing of the engine valves. – Ensures efficient combustion and optimal engine performance. – Can be adjusted by the timing belt or chain connected to the camshaft and crankshaft. – If off, can lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential engine damage.

How to fix P0016 – learn from mechanics

I looked into P0016 service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.

Case #1: Dodge

Vehicle Information:
2002 Dodge Intrepid SE 2.7L
Mileage: 45,663 miles
Engine: 2.7 L, 6 cyl, Gas, DOHC

Issue + Repair History:

• Vehicle came in with engine noise due to a spun rod bearing.
• The engine had been neglected (infrequent oil changes).
• Repairs were made, fixing all damage, and the engine noise was resolved.
• After repairs, the vehicle showed a MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) with code P0016, which was undocumented in the technician’s scanner.
• The vehicle wouldn’t rev past 2400 RPM, both in neutral and when driving.

Suggestions from the Community:

• Multiple technicians indicated that code P0016 relates to Crankshaft/Camshaft position correlation, suggesting possible misalignment.
• Recommendations included checking the cam/crank timing and the timing belt.
• Possibility of an issue with the shift sensor was mentioned.
• Inspection of the timing chain hydraulic tensioner and the condition of the valves was advised.
• Mention of camshaft pulleys/flexplates which are not interchangeable.

Final Fix:
As suggested, the cam/crank timing was found to be incorrect. The engine components were disassembled and re-timed, resolving the issue.

Case #2: Volkswagen

Vehicle Information:
2006 Volkswagen Passat 3.6L

Issue + Repair History:

• The car was in “limp mode” with an illuminated MIL (Malfunction Indicator Light) and EPC light due to the P0016 code.
• The cam was within spec (+/- 5 degrees of 0), showing readings at -4, -1.
• Cam adjusters had the proper resistance of 10.2 ohms.
• Cam and crank signals appeared normal on the scope.
• The mechanic was having difficulty setting up the scope to compare both cam and crank signals simultaneously.
• No prior repair history was provided.

Suggestions from the Community:

• One technician suggested removing the valve cover for closer inspection and mentioned a possible issue with the chain tensioner between the cams.
• Another technician highlighted the need to check the oil pump drive bolt, as this bolt can break or come loose, causing the P0016 code.
• It was also mentioned that once the bolt breaks, the gear rubs against the cover, allowing the engine to run but slightly out of time.
• One technician provided advice on setting up the scope to compare signals.
• A TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) related to the P0016 code, involving replacing a faulty oil pump bolt, was mentioned.

Final Fix:
The mechanic removed the valve cover and found that the cam position was not aligned with the crank at TDC. The timing chain, guides, sprockets, tensioner, and oil pump bolt were replaced. During this process, it was discovered that the intake cam sprocket (VVT) was seized, which caused the cam timing to be within spec but still triggered the P0016 cam/crank correlation code.

Case #3: Mitsubishi

Vehicle Information:
2016 Mitsubishi Outlander SE 2.4L

Issue + Repair History:

• The vehicle displayed a P0016 code related to crankshaft/camshaft position sensor phase.
• Multiple parts were checked/replaced, including cam and crank sensors, timing chain, and variable valve lift solenoid, but the problem persisted.

Suggestions from the Community:

• Check if the intake cam phaser was replaced and verify its locking state.
• Consider a possible tight cam in the head causing keyway twisting.
• Inspect the VVT solenoid for damage or dirt and consider a potential software reflash from Mitsubishi for similar issues.

Final Fix:
The intermittent locking of the phaser was identified as the main problem. After replacing the phaser and the VVT solenoid, the issue was resolved.

Case #4: Porsche

Vehicle Information:
2004 Porsche Cayenne 3.2L

Issue + Repair History:

• The vehicle experienced a loss of power and rough idle after startup.
• Scanned codes revealed an old code P0016 and a new code P0369 related to the cam sensor.
• The P0016 code had been present in the computer for about 40K miles without causing drivability issues, but the P0369 code was new and problematic.
• The car had infrequent oil change intervals.

Suggestions from the Community:

• A mechanic offered to send a 3.2 wiring diagram for checking the cam sensor intermittent open circuit.
• One mechanic believed the chains might have stretched or the guides broke, causing timing issues.
• Another technician recommended changing the oil to either 0-40 Mobil 1, 5-40, or 5-50 synthetic.
• A mechanic suggested that the chains might be stretched or the exhaust cam adjuster might be stuck and recommended checking the cam timing.
• A mechanic emphasized using specific Bosch super spark plugs with 4 ground electrodes and clearing codes after changing them.
• One technician noted that the timing adjuster could get stuck due to infrequent oil changes and recommended flushing the engine oil, refilling with 5w50, and letting the engine idle at a high RPM.

Final Fix:
An oil change with 5W40 synthetic was performed. Fuel pressure issues were identified, with pressure dropping from 55psi to 15psi while running. The problem was traced back to the vehicle’s dual fuel pump system, where the left fuel pump, which should start after the car is started, wasn’t running. Replacing the left fuel pump fixed the fuel pressure, and the engine ran smoothly.

Case #5: Chevrolet

Vehicle Information:
2011 Chevrolet Express 1500 4.3L

Issue + Repair History:

• Check engine light (MIL Lamp) is on with the code P0016.
• No apparent drivability issues.
• The mechanic couldn’t find the cam offset on the Tech 2 and suspected that timing might be off.
• Despite a clean waveform for both the cam and crank, the alignment was not clear.

Suggestions from the Community:

• Try resetting the crankshaft position sensor through diagnostics.
• Mechanical timing might be off, implying the relearn is for a different code.
• Check the camshaft offset prior to a crank relearn after an engine replacement.
• Manually bar the engine over and listen to the timing chain for looseness.
• Check Identifix for potential battery-related issues or other possible reasons for the P0016 code.
• Inspect timing chain, gears, sprockets, and tensioner, especially if there have been recent related repairs.

Final Fix:
The mechanic took apart the used engine (replaced in 2014) and found that the crank pulley wasn’t seated completely. As a result, the crank reluctor ring was loose and wore out the keyway. However, the cam and crank alignment marks were accurate. This adjustment resolved the issue.