P0016 on Mitsubishi
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor A
P0016 on Mitsubishi vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 1 sensor a. Au7o has documented this code across 2 Mitsubishi models — most commonly on Lancer, Outlander. 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 Mitsubishi range from $700 to $5,000, 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 Mitsubishi by Model
Mitsubishi Lancer(1 issue)
- 4B11 Timing Chain Stretch2008-2017
The 4B11 engine timing chain stretches over time, particularly when oil changes are neglected. Chain stretch leads to retarded cam timing, rough idle, and potential engine damage if the chain jumps a tooth on the sprockets.
Mitsubishi Outlander(1 issue)
- 6B31 3.0L V6 Uses a Timing BELT, Not a Chain — Missed Interval Destroys Later Interference Engines2007-2020
A recurring and expensive owner mistake on V6 Outlanders: buyers and even some independent shops assume a modern V6 has a timing chain, so the belt never gets changed. The 6B31 3.0L V6 fitted to the Outlander runs a rubber timing belt with a service interval around 105,000 miles. Worse, the design changed: early 2007-2009 engines used pistons with valve reliefs and are non-interference, so a snapped belt merely stranded the car, while later 6B31s are interference — a broken belt lets the pistons hit open valves and typically bends valves and damages guides. Mitsubishi enthusiast forum threads are full of owners discovering the belt only after it fails, and of 'belt or chain?' confusion threads. The 2.4L four-cylinder in the same body is chain-driven, which is exactly why the confusion persists.
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What does P0016 mean on Mitsubishi?▼
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 Mitsubishi specifically, this code is documented across 2 models.
What causes P0016 on Mitsubishi vehicles?▼
Common causes on Mitsubishi: 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 Mitsubishi?▼
Repair costs on Mitsubishi range from $700 to $5,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Mitsubishi models have P0016 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0016 on 2 Mitsubishi models: Lancer, Outlander.