P0016 on Hyundai
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor A
P0016 on Hyundai vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 1 sensor a. Au7o has documented this code across 4 Hyundai models — most commonly on Azera, Equus, Tiburon. 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. Typical repair costs on Hyundai range from $100 to $2,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0016
- •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
P0016 on Hyundai by Model
Hyundai Azera(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (3.3L/3.8L Lambda)2006-2011
The 3.3L and 3.8L Lambda V6 engines in the Azera use timing chains with hydraulic tensioners that can fail due to oil pressure loss or internal wear. The tensioner relies on consistent oil pressure to maintain chain tension, and low oil levels or degraded oil can cause the tensioner to lose pressure, resulting in chain slack and noise. In severe cases, the chain can jump timing, causing valve-to-piston contact on these interference engines. Regular oil changes and maintaining proper oil levels are critical.
Hyundai Equus(1 issue)
- 5.0L Tau V8 Timing Chain Tensioner Rattle on Cold Start2011-2016
The 5.0L Tau GDI V8 in the Equus develops a timing chain rattle on cold start that lasts 1-5 seconds before oil pressure builds and the hydraulic tensioners take up chain slack. The issue is caused by the hydraulic chain tensioners bleeding down oil overnight, allowing chain slack at startup. While the rattle typically goes away quickly, prolonged operation with rattling chains can cause chain guide wear and eventual timing chain stretch. Extended oil change intervals (beyond 5,000 miles) exacerbate the issue.
Hyundai Tiburon(1 issue)
- Timing Belt Tensioner Failure1997-2008
The Tiburon Beta and Delta engines use a timing belt with a hydraulic tensioner that can fail, causing the belt to lose tension and potentially jump timing. Both the 2.0L Beta engine (1997-2001) and the 2.7L Delta V6 (2003-2008) are interference engines, meaning a jumped or broken timing belt causes catastrophic valve-to-piston contact. The tensioner bearing can also seize, causing belt wear and failure. Replacement at the recommended 60,000-mile interval is critical.
Hyundai XG350(1 issue)
- Timing Belt Tensioner Failure (3.5L Sigma V6)2001-2005
The 3.5L Sigma V6 engine in the XG350 uses a timing belt with a hydraulic tensioner that can fail, allowing the belt to lose tension. The tensioner bearing can seize or the hydraulic damper can leak, both leading to belt slack and potential timing jump. The Sigma V6 is an interference engine, so a timing belt failure or jump causes catastrophic engine damage. Hyundai recommends timing belt replacement at 60,000-mile intervals, but many XG350 owners defer this service due to cost.
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View P0016 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0016 mean on Hyundai?▼
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. On Hyundai specifically, this code is documented across 4 models.
What causes P0016 on Hyundai vehicles?▼
Common causes on Hyundai: 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. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0016 on a Hyundai?▼
Repair costs on Hyundai range from $100 to $2,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Hyundai models have P0016 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0016 on 4 Hyundai models: Azera, Equus, Tiburon, XG350.