P0016 on Mitsubishi: How to Diagnose & Fix
Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation - Bank 1 Sensor A
2 Mitsubishi models · 2 documented issues · 2 critical · $700-$5,000 repair
P0016 on Mitsubishi by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The 4B11 engine timing chain stretches over time, particularly when oil changes are neglected. Chain stretch leads to retarded cam timing, rough idle, and potential engine damage if the chain jumps a tooth on the sprockets.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling noise on cold start
- Check engine light for cam timing
- Rough idle
- Reduced power and fuel economy
How to Fix
Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides as a set. Use the updated Mitsubishi timing chain kit with the improved tensioner. Maintain strict 5,000-mile oil change intervals to minimize chain wear.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Replacement AP 4B11 timing chain, tensioner and two-guide kit REPD321002OEMReplacement AP REPD321002 / TK167
Confirm trim, build date and service-part configuration before order
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Sources for this issue (1)
A recurring and expensive owner mistake on V6 Outlanders: buyers and even some independent shops assume a modern V6 has a timing chain, so the belt never gets changed. The 6B31 3.0L V6 fitted to the Outlander runs a rubber timing belt with a service interval around 105,000 miles. Worse, the design changed: early 2007-2009 engines used pistons with valve reliefs and are non-interference, so a snapped belt merely stranded the car, while later 6B31s are interference — a broken belt lets the pistons hit open valves and typically bends valves and damages guides. Mitsubishi enthusiast forum threads are full of owners discovering the belt only after it fails, and of 'belt or chain?' confusion threads. The 2.4L four-cylinder in the same body is chain-driven, which is exactly why the confusion persists.
Common Symptoms
- Engine cranks but will not start after a bang or rattle
- Sudden loss of power while driving
- Rattling or squealing from the front timing cover
- Rough running with multiple misfires after a timing event
- Crank/cam correlation fault stored
How to Fix
Verify what your engine has before assuming: if it is the 3.0L V6, it is a belt. Replace the timing belt, tensioner, idler pulleys and water pump as a kit at the specified interval (roughly 105k miles, or on age if the car is old and low-mileage — the belt degrades with time and heat cycles, not just miles). Get the previous owner's records; if there is no documented belt service and the car is near or past the interval, treat it as due. If a belt has already broken on a 2010-or-later V6, do a compression or leak-down test before spending money — bent valves usually mean cylinder head removal, and on a high-mileage car a used engine is often cheaper than the head repair.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Gates PowerGrip 6B31 timing component kit with water pump TCKWP339OEMGates TCKWP339
page explicitly fits 2007-2020 Outlander 3.0L V6 and lists belt, tensioner, hydraulic tensioner, idler, water pump, bracket, bushing, bolt, washer and metal gasket. Confirm VIN/en
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 (3)
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 Mitsubishi?
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 Mitsubishi it is documented across 2 models: Lancer, Outlander.
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 Mitsubishi?
Published repair estimates on Mitsubishi range from $700 to $5,000 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.
Looking for P0016 on a different make?
View P0016 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.