DTC P0016 or P0017

 Diagnostic Instructions


Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.

Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.

Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.


 DTC Descriptors

DTC P0016

Crankshaft Position - Intake Camshaft Position Not Plausible

DTC P0017

Crankshaft Position - Exhaust Camshaft Position Not Plausible

 Circuit/System Description

The engine control module (ECM) uses the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor and the intake and exhaust camshaft position (CMP) sensor information to monitor the correlation between the crankshaft, intake, and exhaust camshaft position.

 Conditions for Running the DTC


DTC P0335, P0336, P0340, P0341, P0365, P0366, P0641, and P0651 are not set.

The engine is cranking or running.

The crankshaft and camshaft position signals are synchronized.

The camshaft position actuator is in the parked position.

DTC P0016 and P0017 run continuously once the above conditions are met.


 Conditions for Setting the DTC

The ECM detects a camshaft that is greater than 9 degrees advanced, or 12 degrees retarded, in relationship to the crankshaft.

  Action Taken When the DTC Sets

DTCs P0016 and P0017 are type B DTCs.

 Conditions for Clearing the DTC

DTCs P0016 and P0017 are type B DTCs.

 Diagnostic Aids


Inspect the engine for any recent engine mechanical repairs. An incorrectly installed timing chain can cause this DTC to set.

A mechanical camshaft actuator that is in the full advance or retard position can cause this DTC to set.


 Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Engine Controls Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Camshaft Actuator System Description

Electrical Information Reference


Circuit Testing

Connector Repairs

Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections

Wiring Repairs


DTC Type Reference

Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

 Circuit/System Testing


1. Ignition ON, check the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) information with a scan tool. DTC P0010, P0013, P0335, P0336, P0340, P0341, P0365, or P0366 should not be set.

2. If a DTC is set, refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle for further diagnosis.

3. Idle the engine at normal operating temperature. DTC P0016 or P0017 are not set.

4. If a DTC sets, inspect for the following and repair as necessary:

The correct installation of the camshaft position sensors

The correct installation of the crankshaft sensor

A timing chain tensioner condition

An incorrectly installed timing chain

Excessive play in the timing chain

A mechanical cam actuator that is stuck in the full advance or retard position.

A timing chain that jumped teeth

5. Operate the vehicle within the conditions for running the DTC to verify the DTC does not reset. You may also operate the vehicle within the conditions that you observed from the Freeze Frame/Failure Records data.


 Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the repair.


Camshaft Timing Chain Adjustment

Primary Timing Chain Replacement

Timing Chain Tensioner Replacement (LHU/A20NFT)