P0016 or P0017 after Timing Chain Replacement - What's Wrong?

If you have recently replaced the timing chain in your vehicle and are now getting a P0016 or P0017 error code, it is likely that something else has gone wrong. These codes indicate that the crankshaft position sensor and/or camshaft position sensor are out of sync with each other, which could be caused by an incorrect installation of the timing chain components or another issue entirely.

P0016/P0017 code highlights

• Level of urgency:Medium
• Possible culprits:crankshaft or camshaft issues, position sensor problems
• Price for repair:$350 - $2,500
• Ifneglected:Engine will work harshly and ineffectively
• DIY repairs:Impossible
• Can you drive?Not recommended

What the P0016 or P0017 codes mean

P0016 and P0017 are both codes that relate to the timing of your engine. Specifically, P0016 is a code generated when the intake camshaft and crankshaft positions are not properly synchronized with each other. The P0017 code refers to an issue where the crankshaft position does not match up with the exhaust camshaft position.

Both of these codes indicate that there is something wrong with the timing chain or the timing belt, which could be caused by loose, worn-out, or damaged components. In some cases, it may also be due to a faulty camshaft position sensor, crankshaft position sensor, or other defective parts. If you're experiencing either of these codes, you'll want to have your vehicle inspected and serviced as soon as possible in order to prevent potential further damage.

If the issue is not resolved, it may cause serious engine damage or even complete failure. In order for the P0016 and P0017 codes to be properly diagnosed, a scan tool is necessary that can be used to access the data from the camshaft and crankshaft sensors. With this information, a mechanic can then troubleshoot further to determine what the problem is and provide an appropriate solution.

What Is a Camshaft and Crankshaft and What Do They Do?

The camshaft and crankshaft are two of the most important components of an engine. The camshaft is responsible for opening and closing the intake and exhaust valves at the precise times necessary to create optimum power, while the crankshaft converts linear motion into rotational motion.

This allows your engine to turn fuel into energy. When these two components are out of sync, it can cause problems with the engine timing, resulting in reduced power and poor fuel economy.

What Are the Causes of P0016 or P0017 after Timing Chain Replacement

There is a number of potential causes for these codes to appear after a timing chain replacement. Let's see what they are:

1) Incorrect Installation of Timing Chain Components

Incorrectly installed timing components can have drastic impacts on the performance and reliability of an engine. In the case of a timing chain, incorrect installation can lead to excessive slack in the chain, which may cause major issues such as misfires, poor fuel economy, and increased emissions. Additionally, if a timing chain is incorrectly tensioned, it may cause additional wear and tear on the timing components, leading to frequent replacement.

Incorrect installation can also cause the engine to run too fast or too slow, resulting in P0016 or P0017 codes after timing chain replacement. To avoid this issue, it is important to ensure that the tensioner and all timing components are properly installed and tensioned. Additionally, the vehicle must be taken to a reputable mechanic or dealership to have the timing checked and adjusted.

2) Dirt In the Air Gap Between Sensors

Another potential cause of the P0016 or P0017 code is dirt or debris in the air gap between the camshaft and crankshaft sensors. This can lead to inaccurate readings, resulting in an incorrect synchronization between these two components. To avoid this problem, it's important to ensure that all parts are properly cleaned before installation and that the air gap between sensors is free of any debris.

3) Wrong Oil Velocity or Restriction in the Oil Control Valve

If the oil velocity is too high or there is a restriction in the oil control valve, it can cause the P0016 or P0017 code. This is because the high oil velocity can cause the camshaft to rotate faster than normal, resulting in an incorrect synchronization between the camshaft and crankshaft.

4) Bad Crankshaft or Camshaft Sensors

While it is unlikely, it is possible that the crankshaft or camshaft sensors could be defective after a timing chain replacement. If this is the case, the sensors must be replaced in order to ensure accurate readings and proper engine timing.

5) Faulty Computer Module

Lastly, the computer module could be the cause of these codes after a timing chain replacement. If the computer module is not functioning correctly, it can prevent the engine from properly syncing the camshaft and crankshaft sensors, resulting in the P0016 or P0017 code.

How to Resolve the P0016 or P0017 Error Codes After Timing Chain Replacement

In order to resolve the P0016 or P0017 error codes after timing chain replacement, it is important to follow the steps outlined above. First, check that all components are properly installed and tensioned. Second, make sure the air gap between sensors is free of dirt or debris. Third, replace any faulty crankshaft or camshaft sensors that are detected.

Ensure that the oil pressure is within manufacturer specifications and that the oil control valve is working properly. You will probably need to replace the oil control valve to resolve the issue. Finally, if necessary, replace the computer module. Following these steps should help to resolve the issue and get your engine running smoothly again.

Please note that installing a new timing chain is often a difficult and labor-intensive job. If you are not comfortable performing the installation yourself, it is recommended that you take your vehicle to a certified mechanic or dealership for assistance.

Additionally, depending on your vehicle's make and model, there may be other steps required in order to properly replace the timing chain. There are differences between various vehicle models, and the process of installation can vary between them. Therefore, it is important to consult your vehicle's manual or a certified mechanic before attempting any repairs.

What Can Happen if You Don't Resolve the P0016 or P0017 Error Codes

If the P0016 or P0017 error codes are not resolved, there can be a range of potential damages. For instance, the vehicle may experience poor fuel economy and reduced performance. The engine might also become damaged due to excessive wear and tear, eventually leading to costly repairs or replacements.

In addition, the timing chain may break, which can cause the vehicle to stall while driving. Finally, the vehicle may not start at all if the problem is left unresolved for too long. It is important to address these codes in a timely manner to avoid any of these potentially costly problems.

Bottom Line

The P0016 or P0017 error codes after timing chain replacement can be caused by a number of issues, including incorrect installation of components, dirt in the air gap between sensors, bad crankshaft or camshaft sensors, and a faulty computer module. To resolve these codes, it is important to check all components for correct installation and tensioning, clean the air gap between sensors, replace any faulty crankshaft or camshaft sensors, and, if necessary, replace the computer module.

If you are not comfortable performing these steps yourself, it is best to take your vehicle to a certified mechanic or dealership for assistance. Failure to resolve these error codes in a timely manner can lead to reduced performance, poor fuel economy, excessive wear and tear of the engine stalling while driving, and even a complete failure to start the vehicle. Therefore, it is important to take action as soon as these codes are detected in order to avoid any further damage.