P0016 on Renault: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor A
3 Renault models · 3 documented issues · 2 critical · $300-$3,000 repair
P0016 on Renault by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The timing belt tensioner bearing on Clio K-series engines can fail before the scheduled belt replacement interval, causing catastrophic engine damage. The water pump, which is driven by the timing belt, also fails prematurely.
Common Symptoms
- Squealing from timing cover
- Coolant leak from water pump
- Timing belt wear visible
- Ticking noise
How to Fix
Replace the timing belt, tensioner, idler pulley, and water pump as a complete kit every 72,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first. Do not skip the water pump replacement.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Gates KP35501XS timing-belt and water-pump kit
Selected Renault Clio II/III 1.4 K4J and 1.6 K4M applications with detailed year/build restrictions in the listing; confirm engine index, build date and OE 119A00397R cross-reference.
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Sources for this issue (1)
Both the 0.9 TCe 90 (H4Bt) and 1.2 TCe 120 (H5Ft) petrol engines use a nominally 'lifetime' timing chain that in practice can stretch prematurely from around 80,000-100,000 km, with weak tensioners and plastic guides that crack or snap. A contributing root cause is the small oil jet that lubricates the chain, which clogs with soot when oil changes are stretched, accelerating chain and sprocket wear. Owners on UK forums report rattles followed by snapped guides and slipped chains, which can leave the car a non-starter or cause valve damage.
Common Symptoms
- Metallic rattle from the engine on cold start
- Ticking/rattling from the timing cover area that worsens with revs
- Loss of power accompanied by engine warning light
- Crank/cam correlation fault codes stored
- Engine cranks but won't start after chain slips
How to Fix
Replace the complete timing chain kit (chain, tensioner, guides and sprockets) at the first sign of rattle, and verify the chain oil jet is clear during the job. Strict, shortened oil change intervals with the correct specification oil are the accepted prevention; Renault has contributed goodwill (e.g. 75%) on some out-of-warranty failures.
Sources for this issue (7)
- Timing Chain Slipped?? | Renault Captur Forumsforum
- Need new timing chain according to garage | Renault Captur Forumsforum
- Timing chain 2013 90 tce | Independent Renault Forumsforum
- The Hidden Cause Behind Failing Timing Chains - DiagnoseDanarticle
- 1.2 TCe (H5Ft) Engine - Problems, Oil Consumption, Timing Chain and Solutions - Autoricambi Tritellaarticle
- Renault faces legal action over faulty engines - Just Autoarticle
- 1.2TCE timing chain & bad MPG | Renault Captur Forumsforum
The first-generation 2.5-litre petrol Koleos uses the Renault 2TR engine, essentially the Nissan QR25DE. After roughly 100,000-150,000 km many owners experience excessive oil consumption (worn piston rings) and timing chain stretch, often signalled by a rattle on cold start. Delayed oil changes or incorrect oil viscosity accelerate wear of the chain tensioner and guides.
Common Symptoms
- Rattle on cold start
- High oil consumption / frequent top-ups
- Blue exhaust smoke
- Check engine light
- Loss of power
- Timing chain noise
How to Fix
Maintain strict oil-change intervals with the correct viscosity and monitor oil level between changes. Investigate any cold-start rattle promptly; a stretched chain requires replacement of the chain, tensioner and guides, and heavy oil burning may need a ring/top-end rebuild.
Sources for this issue (2)
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 on a Renault?
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 Renault it is documented across 3 models: Clio, Captur, Koleos.
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 on a Renault?
Published repair estimates on Renault range from $300 to $3,000 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
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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.