P0016 on Nissan
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor A
P0016 on Nissan vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 1 sensor a. Au7o has documented this code across 7 Nissan models — most commonly on 240SX, Frontier, Hardbody. 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 Nissan range from $400 to $4,000, 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 Nissan by Model
Nissan 240SX(1 issue)
- KA24DE Timing Chain Guide Wear and Rattle1991-1998
The KA24DE engine in the 240SX uses a single timing chain with plastic-backed guides that wear and crack over time. As the guides deteriorate, the chain develops excessive slack, causing a distinctive rattle on cold start and eventually leading to jumped timing if left unaddressed. The upper guide (tensioner side) fails first, typically between 100,000-150,000 miles. A jumped timing chain can bend valves and cause catastrophic engine damage on this interference engine.
Nissan Frontier(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Guide and Tensioner Failure (VQ40DE)2005-2019
The Nissan Frontier VQ40DE 4.0L V6 is notorious for timing chain guide and tensioner failure, typically occurring between 80,000-130,000 miles. The plastic chain guides deteriorate and break apart, causing chain rattle and potential engine damage. This is one of the most well-known issues with the Frontier. Nissan issued a Service Campaign for some model years.
Nissan Hardbody(1 issue)
- KA24E Timing Chain Guide Failure1990-1997
The KA24E (single-cam) engine in the Nissan Hardbody (D21) pickup uses plastic-backed timing chain guides that become brittle and break with age and heat exposure. When the guides fail, the timing chain develops excessive slack, causing a loud rattle on startup and potential timing jump. The KA24E is an interference engine, so a jumped timing chain can cause valve-to-piston contact and catastrophic engine damage. Preventive guide replacement is recommended at 100,000+ miles.
Nissan Juke(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Stretch (MR16DDT Engine)2011-2017
The Juke MR16DDT engine timing chain stretches prematurely, especially with irregular oil changes. The chain tensioner cannot compensate for excessive stretch, leading to timing issues and potential engine damage. This is more common in the turbo engine than in other Nissan 1.6L variants.
Nissan Sentra(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Stretch and Rattle (MR20DD Engine)2013-2019
The MR20DD 2.0L engine in the 2013-2019 Sentra suffers from premature timing chain stretch causing a rattling noise on cold start and potential engine damage. The chain tensioner and guides also wear prematurely. If the chain jumps, it can cause valve-to-piston contact and catastrophic engine failure.
Nissan Titan(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Guide Failure (VK56DE Engine)2004-2015
The Nissan Titan VK56DE 5.6L V8 suffers from premature timing chain guide failure, similar to the Frontier VQ40DE but more expensive to repair. The plastic chain guides crack and break, causing chain rattle and potential catastrophic engine damage. The issue typically manifests between 80,000-150,000 miles. Nissan extended the warranty on some models.
Nissan Xterra(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Guide Failure (VQ40DE Engine)2005-2015
The Xterra VQ40DE 4.0L V6 shares the same timing chain guide failure as the Frontier. The plastic guides deteriorate and shatter, causing chain rattle and potential catastrophic engine damage. This issue typically occurs between 80,000-130,000 miles and is the second most common Xterra problem after SMOD.
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View P0016 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0016 mean on Nissan?▼
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 Nissan specifically, this code is documented across 7 models.
What causes P0016 on Nissan vehicles?▼
Common causes on Nissan: 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 Nissan?▼
Repair costs on Nissan range from $400 to $4,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Nissan models have P0016 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0016 on 7 Nissan models: 240SX, Frontier, Hardbody, Juke, Sentra, Titan, Xterra.