P0016 on Toyota
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor A
P0016 on Toyota vehicles indicates crankshaft/camshaft position correlation - bank 1 sensor a. Au7o has documented this code across 2 Toyota models — most commonly on Land Cruiser, RAV4. 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 Toyota range from $600 to $2,500, 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 Toyota by Model
Toyota Land Cruiser(1 issue)
- Timing Belt Tensioner and Water Pump Failure (2UZ-FE)1998-2007
The 2UZ-FE 4.7L V8 uses a timing belt that must be replaced at 90,000-mile intervals. The hydraulic timing belt tensioner and idler pulleys are critical failure points — if the tensioner fails, the timing belt can slip or break, potentially causing valve-to-piston contact on this interference engine. The water pump is driven by the timing belt and commonly leaks at the same mileage interval. Since the labor to access the timing belt is 6-8 hours, all components (belt, tensioner, idler pulleys, water pump) should be replaced together as a comprehensive timing belt service.
Toyota RAV4(1 issue)
- Water Pump Failure/Leak2013-2023
The water pump on the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine can develop leaks or fail, leading to coolant loss and potential overheating. The water pump is driven by the timing chain, so replacement requires significant labor. Some owners experience this around 80,000-120,000 miles.
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View P0016 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0016 mean on Toyota?▼
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 Toyota specifically, this code is documented across 2 models.
What causes P0016 on Toyota vehicles?▼
Common causes on Toyota: 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 Toyota?▼
Repair costs on Toyota range from $600 to $2,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Toyota models have P0016 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0016 on 2 Toyota models: Land Cruiser, RAV4.