Possible causes
– Mechanical timing fault
– Blocked oil passage
– Low oil level
– Failed actuator assembly
– Faulty camshaft position sensor
– Faulty crankshaft position sensor
– Blocked oil passage
– Low oil level
– Failed actuator assembly
– Faulty camshaft position sensor
– Faulty crankshaft position sensor
Tech description
If this DTC started after recent internal engine repairs, inspect for proper engine mechanical timing. With the camshaft cover removed and the #1 cylinder at top dead center, make sure that the darkened chain links are lined up with the alignment marks on the exhaust and intake cam sprockets.
If a P0016 is resetting without any engine performance concerns but the above information did not isolate a cause for the DTC, replace the Cam Phaser Actuator sprocket.
When is the obd code mean?
The ECM has detected the actual CMP angle of one camshaft is greater or less than the commanded state.
Symptoms
– Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)
– Engine hard to start
– Engine stall while driving
– Engine hard to start
– Engine stall while driving
P0016 PONTIAC OBD Code Description