Stretched timing chain. Faulty camshaft phaser/VVT solenoid. Jumped timing belt/chain. Low oil level affecting VVT operation. Worn chain tensioner.

Which cars are affected by P0016?

P0016 is most commonly reported on Ford, Vauxhall, BMW, Hyundai, Kia vehicles, but can appear on any make.

← All fault codes

P0016

High severity

Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)

The crankshaft and camshaft positions are not in the expected alignment. This usually indicates a timing issue that can cause rough running, reduced power, or a no-start condition.

Get a full AI diagnosis for your vehicle

Enter your reg plate and fault code — Velocito.ai cross-references technical databases, MOT history, manufacturer recalls, and known fixes to pinpoint the exact cause.

Diagnose P0016 free3 free searches — no card required

Common causes of P0016

1Stretched timing chain

2Faulty camshaft phaser/VVT solenoid

3Jumped timing belt/chain

+2 more causes

Get all causes ranked by likelihood for your specific vehicle — plus the cheapest confirming test for each.

Diagnose P0016 free

Commonly affected vehicles

FordVauxhallBMWHyundaiKia

P0016 can appear on any vehicle — these are the makes where it is most frequently reported.

Full diagnosis report

Most likely cause for your vehicle

Based on your vehicle's make, model, year, and MOT history, the most probable cause is identified and ranked by likelihood.

Confirming diagnostic test

The cheapest test to confirm the root cause before replacing any parts — saving time and money on unnecessary work.

Recalls & technical bulletins

Manufacturer recalls and TSBs checked automatically for your specific vehicle, so nothing gets missed.

Unlock the full report

Enter your reg plate to get causes ranked for your specific vehicle, confirming tests, recall checks, and known fixes.

Try 3 free searches

Stop guessing. Start diagnosing.

Enter your reg plate and P0016 — get a full diagnostic report in seconds.

Try 3 free searches

Related fault codes

P0171Medium

System Too Lean (Bank 1)

P0300High

Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected

P0420Medium

Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)

P0172Medium

System Too Rich (Bank 1)