Holden VF Commodore 6.0L/6.2L L77, LS3, LSA - DTC Error Code P0016

Diagnostic Trouble Code

P0016

Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Not Plausible

Type B DTC MIL: 2 drive cycles Active below 1,200 RPM

System Description

The engine control module (ECM) uses the crankshaft position sensor and camshaft position sensor to monitor the correlation between crankshaft and camshaft position. If the signals fall outside acceptable limits, P0016 is stored and the MIL is illuminated.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Related DTCs absent

P0335, P0336, P0340, P0341, P0641, P0651

Engine state

Running

Engine speed

Below 1,200 RPM

The DTC runs continuously when the above conditions are met.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The ECM detects crankshaft position sensor pulses occurring more than 11 crank degrees before or after the normal position for 24 out of 30 consecutive engine cycles.

DTC Behaviour

When set

Type B DTC - MIL illuminates after 2 consecutive fault cycles

To clear

3 consecutive fault-free cycles, or clear with scan tool

Failsafe action

No reduced power - engine runs, fault logged

Common Causes

Camshaft position sensor (B23) - incorrect installation or damage
Crankshaft position sensor (B26) - incorrect installation or damage
Timing chain tensioner failure
Incorrectly installed timing chain
Excessive play in timing chain or sprockets
Timing chain that has jumped teeth

Diagnostic Procedure

Before starting: Address DTCs P0335, P0336, P0340, P0341, P0641, or P0651 first if present. Clear all ECM DTCs before beginning this procedure.
  • 1

    Ignition ON. Using a scan tool, verify DTCs P0335, P0336, P0340, P0341, P0641, or P0651 are not set.

    If set Diagnose and repair those DTCs first. Do not continue until all related codes are cleared.
    If clear Continue to Step 2.
  • 2

    Start the engine and allow it to reach normal operating temperature.

  • 3

    Using a scan tool, verify DTC P0016 is not currently set.

    If set

    Inspect and repair as necessary:

    • Correct installation of camshaft position sensor (B23)
    • Correct installation of crankshaft position sensor (B26)
    • Timing chain tensioner condition
    • Timing chain installation and sprocket play
    • Timing chain for jumped teeth
    If clear Continue to Step 4.
  • 4

    Operate the vehicle under the conditions that originally triggered the fault. Refer to Freeze Frame / Failure Records data for guidance on replicating those conditions.

  • 5

    Verify the DTC does not set.

    If sets A mechanical fault still exists. Return to Step 3 and reinspect.
    If clear Fault is not currently present. Monitor for recurrence over subsequent drive cycles.
  • 6

    All OK. Perform a diagnostic repair verification after any repair has been completed.

Related Repair Procedures

Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement
Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement
Camshaft Timing Chain and Sprocket Replacement

All specifications and diagnostic procedures sourced from official GM / Holden workshop documentation.