P0016 fault code: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation

Last updated · OBDCode UK editorial

Self-drawn engine management light for P0016 cam and crank correlation
Decorative labelled telltale: the engine management light that P0016 usually sets. Normally amber. This drawing is not manufacturer artwork and does not name any other lamp colour.
Can I drive with P0016? — Limited driving only

If the engine starts and runs smoothly you may go carefully to a garage. If it will not start, knocks, or the engine management light flashes, stop and arrange recovery. Do not try to reset the cambelt or chain yourself.

P0016 means “Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation” — a fuel and air metering fault in the powertrain. Limited driving only. The crankshaft and camshaft position signals do not agree on where the engine is in its cycle. That can be a sensor issue or a genuine timing-drive problem. Do not attempt to re-time the engine at home.

Can I DIY?

Caution — conditions apply. We do not publish DIY repair or strip-down steps for this code on this page. Read codes and observe only; leave the repair to a qualified garage.

Caution — conditions applyDIY boundary
ToolsBasic tools only — for example a household socket set, tyre gauge, or a consumer OBD reader.

Some checks may be possible for a careful DIY driver with the right tools and a safe place to work. Stop if anything feels beyond your skill or kit.

Hot systems

Never open a hot coolant cap — pressure can scald you. Exhaust and catalytic converter get hot enough to burn and ignite debris. Stay clear of electric fans; they can run after shut-off.

P00xxFuel and air metering
MOT fail riskif the warning light stays on

What does P0016 mean?

P0016 is a generic (SAE standard) powertrain code reported by your car’s engine control unit. It sits in the P00xx block, which covers fuel and air metering. The stored description is “Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation”. The code itself tells you which circuit or system tripped the fault — not always the exact part that failed.

How to diagnose P0016 yourself

  1. Confirm P0016 and companion signal codes: With the car stationary, scan the OBD-II port. Record whether P0016 is current or pending, freeze-frame, and whether crankshaft-sensor or camshaft-sensor circuit codes appear on the same scan. Stop if: The engine will not start, a loud knock is present, or the engine management light is flashing.
    Generic driver footwell showing a broad OBD-II socket search zone and the usual 16-pin socket shape.
    Park safely and switch off before locating the socket. Its position varies, so use the vehicle handbook and never force or dismantle trim.
  2. Note whether it starts and idles: From the driving seat in open air, try one normal start. Note whether it fires immediately, cranks for a long time, or will not start. Do not keep cranking, and do not idle in a closed garage. Stop if: It will not start, you hear a knock or rattle that was not there before, or you feel dizzy from exhaust in an enclosed space.
  3. Look at the front timing cover from above: When the engine is cold, open the bonnet and look from above only: is there an obvious oil leak around the front timing cover, or a cover that is clearly loose? Do not remove the cover, lock the engine, or go under the car. Stop if: The engine is hot, you would need a jack or axle stands, or you are about to fit locking tools.

Will P0016 fail an MOT?

An illuminated engine management light is a Major defect at MOT until the fault is repaired and the light stays off.

Before booking your test, check what usually fails on your car: see our MOT pass rates by make and model, built from 33.1 million DVSA tests.

What the MOT data says

No MOT certificate item corresponds to this code; MOT outcome data cannot be shown.

Related guides

Car diagnostic test cost: compare the scopeUK booking marketplaces currently publish diagnostic averages of about £52–£65. Engine management light on: steady or flashing?A steady engine management light means the computer has stored a fault. Drive with caution and get the code read. A flashing light is different — stop when it is safe. Timing-chain replacement cost: confirm the evidenceNoise or a correlation code alone may not prove chain wear; ask what tests and complete-kit scope support the quote.
P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open P0002Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance P0003Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low P0004Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High P0005Fuel Shutoff Valve 'A' Control Circuit/Open P0006Fuel Shutoff Valve 'A' Control Circuit Low P0007Fuel Shutoff Valve 'A' Control Circuit High P0008Engine Position System Performance

P0016 — quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0016?

Limited driving only. If the engine starts and runs smoothly you may go carefully to a garage. If it will not start, knocks, or the engine management light flashes, stop and arrange recovery. Do not try to reset the cambelt or chain yourself.

Can I fix P0016 myself?

Caution — conditions apply. We do not publish DIY repair or strip-down steps for this code on this page. Read codes and observe only; leave the repair to a qualified garage. Basic tools only — for example a household socket set, tyre gauge, or a consumer OBD reader.

Will P0016 fail my MOT?

An illuminated engine management light is a Major defect at MOT until the fault is repaired and the light stays off.

Fault-code identifiers are standard diagnostic facts. Their explanations and diagnostic guidance on this site are original editorial summaries, not reproduced SAE wording. MOT defect rules reflect the DVSA MOT inspection manual (2026). This page is general guidance for UK drivers, not a substitute for a professional diagnosis.