P0016 — Crankshaft / Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1)

What P0016 means

The computer compares the crankshaft and camshaft positions; they're out of the expected relationship. Can be a sensor, a VVT phaser, or actual mechanical timing slippage.

Most likely causes (in order)

1. VVT cam phaser out of position (oil-related)
2. Stretched or jumped timing chain
3. Cam or crank position sensor / reluctor
4. Oil control valve stuck

Symptoms you might notice

• Rough running / hard start
• Power loss
• Possible rattle (chain)

What to check first

Pull valve cover and check chain stretch/guides if it runs rough; otherwise scan cam-vs-crank timing and check the VVT solenoid and oil pressure. Fresh oil first on phaser-equipped engines.

Repair cost & difficulty

What P0016 means on specific makes

Mercedes-Benz CAUTION

Generic correlation code, but on Mercedes M272 (V6) and M273 (V8) ~2004-2008 it is the FAMOUS failure: the balance shaft gear (M272) or idler gear (M273) wears prematurely, throwing P0016/P0017 cam-crank correlation codes. Distinct from a simple sensor fault.

1. Worn balance shaft gear (M272) or idler gear (M273) - major repair ($2,000-5,000, engine-out gear replacement)
2. Cam magnet/adjuster solenoid ($100-300)
3. Stretched timing chain
4. Crank/cam sensor

Check first: On affected M272/M273 VINs, check the balance-shaft gear wear (there were goodwill/class-action programs). Confirm whether it's the gear (big job) vs. a cam adjuster solenoid (smaller) before quoting.

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