P0016 on Subaru
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor A
P0016 on Subaru vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 1 sensor a. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Subaru model — most commonly on Tribeca. 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 Subaru range from $2,500 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 Subaru by Model
Subaru Tribeca(1 issue)
- EZ36 Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear2008-2014
The 3.6L EZ36 flat-6 engine uses timing chains instead of belts, but the chains and guides are not maintenance-free as often assumed. The timing chain tensioner and plastic chain guides wear over time, typically after 120,000-180,000 miles. Worn chains stretch, causing rough idle, misfires, and timing-related codes. The EZ36 uses three timing chains (one for each bank plus one for the center) making replacement a complex and labor-intensive job. If a chain jumps timing due to severe stretch or guide failure, valve-to-piston contact can cause catastrophic engine damage.
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What does P0016 mean on Subaru?▼
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 Subaru specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0016 on Subaru vehicles?▼
Common causes on Subaru: 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 Subaru?▼
Repair costs on Subaru range from $2,500 to $4,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Subaru models have P0016 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0016 on 1 Subaru model: Tribeca.