P0016 on GMC: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor A
3 GMC models · 4 documented issues · 3 critical · $1,000-$4,000 repair
P0016 on GMC by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
First-generation Terrains ordered with the optional V6 - the 3.0L LF1/LFW in 2010-2012 and the 3.6L LFX from 2013-2017 - use GM's High Feature V6 architecture with three timing chains (one primary, two secondary). The chains and their tensioners/guides stretch and wear prematurely, particularly on engines run on the oil-life monitor's long intervals or that have consumed oil between changes and starved the hydraulic tensioners. The ECM detects the resulting camshaft-to-crankshaft phase error and sets P0008 or P0009. This is a completely separate failure from the 2.4L Ecotec timing chain issue already documented: different engine family, different chain count, different repair.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light with cam/crank correlation codes
- Rattle from the front of the engine on cold start
- Rough idle and reduced power
- Low oil level between changes
- Engine may crank but not start in severe cases
How to Fix
Confirm cam/crank correlation and oil-pressure/maintenance condition, then replace the primary and both secondary chains, guides, tensioners and sprockets as a set. Correct the oil-consumption or lubrication cause rather than clearing codes alone.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Cloyes 9-0753SWP timing-chain kit with sprockets and water pump$355
Direct listing supplies three chains, guides and tensioners; verify VIN/engine and confirm any seals, one-time fasteners and VVT components required separately.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (4)
- GM Bulletin 12-06-01-009A - High Feature V6 timing chain kits and guide replacements, DTCs P0008/P0009/P0016-P0019 (2010-2012 Terrain LF1/LFW)tsb
- P0008 on 2010-2017 GMC Terrain 3.0L V6 - Stretched Timing Chain Causes and Fixesarticle
- P0009 on 2010-2017 GMC Terrain - V6 Timing Chain Causes and Fixesarticle
- 2017 3.6 (V6) Terrain: Oil Consumption - GMC Terrain, Equinox and SRX Forumforum
The GM Ecotec 2.4L in the 2010-2014 Terrain has the same timing chain stretch and tensioner failure as the Equinox and Malibu. GM Special Coverage 12313 covers balance-chain stretch (worn chrome on the balance chain pins) on 2010-2011 models for 10 years/120,000 miles. The 2010-2011 models are worst affected. Piston ring wear on 2010-2013 models causes excessive oil burning (GM bulletin 13-06-01-003), which leads to low oil and accelerated timing chain wear. 2015+ models received revised internal components.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling noise on cold start
- Check engine light with P0016 or P0017
- Rough idle and misfires
- Excessive oil consumption (1 qt per 1000 miles)
- Loss of power and poor acceleration
- Engine stalling
How to Fix
Confirm chain stretch with cam/crank correlation data before repair. On 2010-2011 models, a stretched balance chain is repaired free under GM Special Coverage 12313 (10 years/120,000 miles). When pistons and rings are replaced under GM bulletin 13-06-01-003, 2010-2011 engines that lack the updated timing chain kit (12635447), balance chain and tensioner get them, and the timing and balance chain guides are inspected. Keep the oil level full, since low oil from consumption accelerates chain wear.
Sources for this issue (2)
GM told technicians that on the 2014 Sierra 1500 with the 4.3L V6, service-manual diagnosis may not find the cause of a hard P0016, and that the crankshaft reluctor wheel may be damaged, misaligned or moved on the crankshaft. 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 with the 4.3L V6 (RPO LV3), per GM preliminary information PIP5183. Not the 5.3L or 6.2L V8.
How to Fix
Have a technician diagnose the P0016. PIP5183 says that, with the oil pan and front cover off, the technician checks whether the reluctor wheel can be turned on the crankshaft and whether it is indexed correctly, and replaces the crankshaft if it is loose or mis-indexed. This is GM preliminary information for technicians, not a recall or a promise of free repair.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (1)
GM bulletin 12-06-01-009D covers 2007-2012 GMC Acadia vehicles with 3.6L High Feature V6 engines (RPO LY7 or LLT) and timing-chain correlation DTCs P0008, P0009, P0016, P0017, P0018 or P0019.
Common Symptoms
- Check-engine light
- Camshaft-to-crankshaft correlation DTC
How to Fix
Complete the GM diagnostic procedure before ordering parts. When a stretched timing chain is confirmed, use the applicable GM timing-chain kit. The bulletin says guides, sprockets, actuators and the crank gear should not be replaced automatically unless separately worn or diagnosed.
Sources for this issue (1)
P0016 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0016 mean on a GMC?
P0016 stands for "Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor A." P0016 means the engine computer found that the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors on Bank 1 (Sensor A) are not lining up the way they should — the timing 'correlation' between them is out of range. These two sensors tell the computer where the pistons and valves are so it can time fuel injection and spark precisely. When their signals don't agree within tolerance, the computer sets this code. It generally indicates an engine timing issue, which may be a worn timing chain, a sticking variable valve timing component, or a sensor problem, and can cause rough running, hard starting, or potential engine damage if ignored. On GMC it is documented across 3 models: Terrain, Sierra 1500, Acadia.
What are the most common causes of P0016?
The most common causes of P0016 are: Stretched timing chain or worn timing components (guides/tensioner), Faulty camshaft position sensor or crankshaft position sensor, Stuck or faulty variable valve timing (VVT/VCT) actuator or solenoid, Low or dirty engine oil affecting the VVT actuator, Clogged oil control valve or restricted oil passages, Timing chain/belt installed one tooth off after service, Damaged reluctor/tone ring on the crankshaft or camshaft, Wiring or connector faults at the position sensors. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0016 on a GMC?
Published repair estimates on GMC range from $1,000 to $4,000 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.