P0016 on a Mercedes-Benz: Causes, Fixes & Repair Cost

🟠 Moderate severity · drivable

You can often drive a Mercedes short distances with P0016, but if it runs rough, stalls, or won't start, have it towed — a jumped timing chain can ruin the engine.

What P0016 means on a Mercedes-Benz

On a Mercedes-Benz, P0016 means the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors on bank 1 don't line up the way they should. Mercedes V6 and V8 engines use camshaft adjusters, so a correlation code usually points to a stretched timing chain or a failing adjuster. If the chain has jumped, the engine can be badly damaged.

Is P0016 common on Mercedes-Benzs?

P0016 appears on chain-driven Mercedes engines like the C-Class, E-Class, and ML-Class, especially at higher mileage. Worn timing chain guides, camshaft adjusters, and low oil pressure are the usual suspects, and regular oil changes help prevent it.

Commonly reported on: C-Class, E-Class, ML-Class, GLK.

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: Stretched or jumped timing chain
common: Worn timing chain guide or tensioner
common: Faulty camshaft adjuster
less common: Faulty camshaft position sensor
less common: Low oil pressure

How to fix it

Fix	DIY?	Typical cost
Have the timing and sensor readings checked with a scan tool	Mechanic	$150–300
Replace the timing chain kit if it is stretched	Mechanic	$1800–3500
Replace a faulty camshaft adjuster	Mechanic	$500–1200
Replace a faulty camshaft position sensor	Yes	$120–300

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive my Mercedes 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 Mercedes-Benz?

A stretched timing chain is the most common cause at higher mileage. Worn chain guides, a faulty camshaft adjuster, or a bad camshaft position sensor can also set this code.

How much does it cost to fix P0016 on a Mercedes-Benz?

A timing chain job usually runs $1,800–$3,500. Replacing a camshaft adjuster costs about $500–$1,200, while a camshaft sensor is around $120–$300.