P0016: How to Diagnose & Fix — Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor A
194 vehicles · 41 makes · $50-$25,000 repair
How to diagnose and fix P0016: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
MINI Cooper S · 2007–2013
The R56 Cooper S N14 engine (2007-2010) is particularly notorious for timing chain tensioner failure, even more so than the naturally aspirated N12. The higher cylinder pressures from turbocharging accelerate chain stretch and guide rail wear. The revised N18 (2011-2013) improved but didn't fully resolve the issue.
Common Symptoms
- Loud rattling on cold start
- Check engine light
- Reduced power
- Engine misfire codes
- Metal debris in oil
How to Fix
Replace timing chain, tensioner, guides, and sprockets. N14 engines should have this done proactively at 50-60k miles. N18 engines are better but should be inspected at 80k. Replace oil pump chain at the same time.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- MINI N14 timing-chain kit 11318618317KTOEMFCP Euro 11318618317KT / MINI 11318618317
VIN-confirmed N14 timing-chain, guide and tensioner failure branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S. Confirm VIN and kit contents before purchase; it is not the N18 branch a
- MINI N18 timing-chain kit 11318618318KT1OEMFCP Euro 11318618318KT1 / MINI 11318618318
VIN-confirmed N18 timing-chain, guide and tensioner failure branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S. Confirm VIN and kit contents before purchase; do not use it for N14 or
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Volkswagen Golf · 2008–2014
The EA888 2.0T engine (Gen1 and Gen2) in 2008-2014 Golf/GTI models suffers from a faulty timing chain tensioner that can fail and allow the chain to skip teeth. This can cause catastrophic engine damage including bent valves and piston contact. VW updated the tensioner design multiple times (revision K is considered the final fix). The original tensioner (part# 06H-109-467-N) was superseded by 06K-109-467-K after widespread failures reported at 40,000-80,000 miles. A US class-action settlement extended timing chain/tensioner coverage to 10 years/100,000 miles on covered vehicles, including the 2008-2012 GTI.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling or grinding noise on cold start
- Check engine light with camshaft position codes (P0016, P0017)
- Engine misfires at startup
- Loss of power
- Engine fails to start after chain skip
How to Fix
Replace timing chain tensioner with updated revision K unit (VW part# 06K-109-467-K). Replace the timing chain, guides, and both camshaft adjusters while the engine is apart. Total job is 6-8 hours labor. Use OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts (INA, Febi-Bilstein). Verify tensioner revision letter before purchasing - anything before revision K may fail again.
Sources for this issue (3)
Honda CR-V · 2012–2016
The Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator fails, causing a loud rattling or grinding noise for 1-2 seconds during cold engine startup. The issue is caused by the actuator's internal lock pin not engaging properly. If left unaddressed, this can lead to timing chain wear and potential engine damage.
Common Symptoms
- Loud rattling noise on cold start for 1-2 seconds
- Grinding sound when starting engine
- Check engine light with timing-related codes
- Reduced engine performance
- Rough idle after cold start
How to Fix
Replace the VTC actuator. In some cases, the timing chain and tensioner may also need replacement if they have been damaged. Using the correct 0W-20 oil and changing oil at 5,000-mile intervals can help prevent premature failure. Cost: VTC actuator replacement $400-$600; with timing chain $1,000-$1,500.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Honda 14310-R5A-305 VTC actuatorOEMHonda 14310-R5A-305
Updated actuator for a confirmed two-second cold-start rattle within the 2012-2014 bulletin/VIN branches Fitment/availability: 2012-2014 U.S.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $400-$600 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
- TipUsing the correct 0W-20 oil and changing oil at 5,000-mile intervals can help prevent premature failure.
- TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
Sources for this issue (3)
MINI Cooper · 2007–2013
Volkswagen Jetta · 2008–2016
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P0016 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0016 mean?
P0016 stands for "Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor A." P0016 means the engine computer found that the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors on Bank 1 (Sensor A) are not lining up the way they should — the timing 'correlation' between them is out of range. These two sensors tell the computer where the pistons and valves are so it can time fuel injection and spark precisely. When their signals don't agree within tolerance, the computer sets this code. It generally indicates an engine timing issue, which may be a worn timing chain, a sticking variable valve timing component, or a sensor problem, and can cause rough running, hard starting, or potential engine damage if ignored.
What are the most common causes of P0016?
The most common causes of P0016 are: Stretched timing chain or worn timing components (guides/tensioner), Faulty camshaft position sensor or crankshaft position sensor, Stuck or faulty variable valve timing (VVT/VCT) actuator or solenoid, Low or dirty engine oil affecting the VVT actuator, Clogged oil control valve or restricted oil passages, Timing chain/belt installed one tooth off after service, Damaged reluctor/tone ring on the crankshaft or camshaft, Wiring or connector faults at the position sensors. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0016?
Repair costs for P0016 range from $50 to $25,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0016?
Au7o has documented P0016 across 194 vehicle models from 41 manufacturers: Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW, Buick, CUPRA, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Citroen, Dacia, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Jaguar, Jeep, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, MINI, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Opel, Peugeot, Pontiac, Porsche, RAM, Renault, SEAT, Saturn, Skoda, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.