P0016 on Saturn
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor A
P0016 on Saturn vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 1 sensor a. Au7o has documented this code across 3 Saturn models — most commonly on Astra, Aura, Vue. 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 Saturn range from $1,200 to $4,500, 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 Saturn by Model
Saturn Astra(1 issue)
- Astra 1.8L Z18XER Water Pump / Timing Chain Wear2008-2009
2008-2009 Saturn Astra is the Belgian-built Opel Astra H rebadged. The 1.8L Z18XER engine's water pump is driven from the timing chain — pump failure can jam the chain and bend valves. Common at 80,000-130,000 miles. Parts have become scarce in North America since Saturn / Opel withdrew.
Saturn Aura(2 issues)
- Aura 3.6L LY7 V6 Timing Chain Stretch2007-2009
The GM 3.6L LY7/LLT "High Feature" V6 in 2007-2009 Saturn Aura XR (and shared Chevy Malibu / Pontiac G6 / Cadillac CTS) develops timing chain stretch typically by 80,000-150,000 miles. Same root cause family as the LLT in Enclave/LaCrosse/Acadia — extended oil intervals starve the chain.
- 3.6L V6 (LY7) Stretched Timing Chains2007-2009
The early GM 3.6L high-feature V6 (used in Aura XR) is prone to premature timing chain stretch, sometimes appearing as early as 50,000-100,000 miles. As the chains wear, camshaft-to-crankshaft timing drifts out of spec, setting correlation codes and eventually causing rough running, reduced power, and potential engine damage if ignored. A cold-start rattle is a common early warning sign.
Saturn Vue(1 issue)
- 3.6L High Feature V6 (LY7) Timing Chain Stretch2008-2010
The 3.6L 'High Feature' V6 used in the redesigned 2008-2010 Vue (and shared with Aura/Outlook/Acadia/CTS) is prone to timing chain stretch, often aggravated by extended oil-change intervals. As the chains and plastic guides wear, cam/crank timing drifts out of correlation, triggering the check-engine light, rough running, and a rattle on cold start. GM issued Information Bulletin 12-06-01-009F covering timing chain kit and guide replacement for DTCs P0008/P0009/P0016/P0017/P0018/P0019.
Looking for P0016 on a different make?
View P0016 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0016 mean on Saturn?▼
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 Saturn specifically, this code is documented across 3 models.
What causes P0016 on Saturn vehicles?▼
Common causes on Saturn: 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 Saturn?▼
Repair costs on Saturn range from $1,200 to $4,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Saturn models have P0016 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0016 on 3 Saturn models: Astra, Aura, Vue.