P0016 on Mazda
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor A
P0016 on Mazda vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 1 sensor a. Au7o has documented this code across 3 Mazda models — most commonly on B-Series, CX-7, CX-9. 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 Mazda range from $300 to $3,500, 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 Mazda by Model
Mazda B-Series(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Guide and Tensioner Failure1998-2007
Ford-sourced V6 engines develop timing chain guide wear and tensioner failure. Plastic guides break apart and can clog oil passages. Same issue as Ford Ranger with identical engines.
Mazda CX-7(1 issue)
- VVT Actuator Failure2007-2012
The Variable Valve Timing (VVT) actuator on the 2.3L turbo engine can fail due to oil contamination, internal seal wear, or solenoid malfunction. A failed VVT actuator causes rough idle, poor performance, and check engine lights with timing-related codes. The VVT system relies on clean oil pressure to function, so oil contamination from extended oil change intervals accelerates failure. This issue often accompanies or precedes the larger turbo engine failure problem.
Mazda CX-9(2 issues)
- Timing Chain Stretch on 3.7L V62007-2015
The Ford-derived 3.7L Duratec V6 in first-generation CX-9 suffers from timing chain stretch, typically between 80,000-120,000 miles. Chain guides and tensioners wear, causing timing to retard and triggering check engine codes. If not addressed, can lead to jumped timing and severe engine damage.
- Timing Chain Stretch and Rattle (2.5L Turbo SkyActiv)2016-2025
The second-generation CX-9 with the 2.5L turbocharged SkyActiv-G engine can develop timing chain stretch, producing a rattle or whine at startup that may persist for several seconds. Unlike the first-gen 3.7L V6 issue, the 2.5T chain stretch is typically less severe but still requires attention. The issue is linked to extended oil change intervals and use of non-synthetic oil allowing chain guide and tensioner wear.
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View P0016 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0016 mean on Mazda?▼
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 Mazda specifically, this code is documented across 3 models.
What causes P0016 on Mazda vehicles?▼
Common causes on Mazda: 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 Mazda?▼
Repair costs on Mazda range from $300 to $3,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Mazda models have P0016 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0016 on 3 Mazda models: B-Series, CX-7, CX-9.