P0016 on a Honda: Causes, Fixes & Repair Cost

🟠 Moderate severity · drivable

You can often drive a Honda a short distance with P0016, but if it runs rough, stalls, or won't start, stop driving — a jumped timing chain can cause major engine damage.

What P0016 means on a Honda

On a Honda, P0016 means the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors on bank 1 are reporting positions that do not line up. The two shafts are out of sync, which usually points to a worn VTC actuator, a stretched timing chain, or a faulty sensor.

Is P0016 common on Hondas?

P0016 appears on Honda four-cylinders like the Accord, Civic, and CR-V. The VTC actuator is a known wear point on Honda engines, and at higher mileage the timing chain and its tensioner can also stretch or wear enough to throw off the sensor readings.

Commonly reported on: Accord, Civic, CR-V.

Symptoms

Check engine light on
Rough idle or stalling
Hard starting in some cases
Loss of power or poor fuel economy

Common causes

most common: Worn or sticking VTC actuator
common: Stretched or jumped timing chain
common: Worn timing chain tensioner or guides
less common: Faulty crankshaft or camshaft position sensor
less common: Low oil pressure affecting the VTC system

How to fix it

Fix	DIY?	Typical cost
Inspect the timing chain, tensioner, and VTC actuator	Mechanic	$100–300
Replace the VTC actuator if it is worn	Mechanic	$300–800
Replace the timing chain kit if it is stretched	Mechanic	$800–1800
Replace a faulty crankshaft or camshaft sensor	Yes	$100–300

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to drive my Honda with a P0016 code?

Short distances are usually okay if the engine runs fine. If it idles rough, stalls, or won't start, have it towed — a jumped timing chain can ruin the engine.

What causes P0016 on a Honda?

A worn VTC actuator is a common cause on Honda engines. Stretched timing chains, worn tensioners, and faulty sensors can also set this code.

How much does it cost to fix P0016 on a Honda?

A VTC actuator runs about $300–$800 and a timing chain job about $800–$1,800. Replacing a sensor is cheaper, around $100–$300.