A P0016 – Crankshaft Camshaft Correlation Fault on the 2018 MG ZS indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected that the crankshaft position and camshaft position signals are no longer synchronised within the manufacturer’s specified tolerance.

The ECM continuously compares the signals from the Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor and Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor to accurately control ignition timing, fuel injection, and variable valve timing (VVT). When the correlation between these signals falls outside the acceptable range, the ECM stores DTC P0016 and illuminates the Check Engine Light.

This fault may be caused by incorrect valve timing, a stretched timing chain, VVT system faults, sensor failures, wiring issues, or engine oil-related problems. If left unresolved, the fault can lead to poor engine performance, increased emissions, and, in severe cases, engine damage.

Symptoms

• Check Engine Light illuminated
• Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0016 stored
• Engine difficult to start or will not start
• Rough engine idle
• Engine misfires
• Reduced engine power
• Poor acceleration
• Increased fuel consumption
• Engine stalling
• Additional variable valve timing or camshaft-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes may also be present

Possible Causes

The fault may be caused by a stretched or incorrectly installed timing chain, faulty timing chain tensioner, worn timing chain guides, defective crankshaft position sensor, faulty camshaft position sensor, sticking or failed Variable Valve Timing (VVT) actuator, faulty VVT oil control solenoid, low engine oil level, contaminated or incorrect engine oil, damaged reluctor wheel, damaged wiring harness, loose or corroded electrical connectors, poor ground connections, Engine Control Module (ECM) faults, or CAN Bus communication issues affecting engine management. Mechanical valve timing errors are among the most common causes of DTC P0016.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins by connecting a professional diagnostic scan tool to retrieve DTC P0016 and any accompanying engine management or Variable Valve Timing Diagnostic Trouble Codes. Freeze-frame data and live data should be analysed to evaluate crankshaft and camshaft position signals, commanded versus actual camshaft angle, engine oil temperature, engine speed, and VVT operation. Any related crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, or VVT faults should be diagnosed first, as they may contribute directly to the correlation error.

A P0016 fault is not always caused by a faulty sensor. Technicians typically verify engine oil level and condition, inspect the timing chain for excessive wear or stretch, check timing marks for correct mechanical alignment, and inspect the Variable Valve Timing system before replacing components. The crankshaft and camshaft position sensors should be tested using live data or an oscilloscope, while the VVT oil control solenoid, wiring harnesses, electrical connectors, battery voltage, and ground circuits should also be inspected. Where necessary, mechanical timing should be verified using the manufacturer’s special service tools.

If the timing components and primary electrical circuits operate within specification, further diagnosis should include evaluation of the Engine Control Module, VVT control circuits, oil pressure system, and the CAN Bus communication network. Access to OEM wiring diagrams, connector pinouts, mechanical timing procedures, VVT diagnostic routines, component locations, circuit descriptions, and manufacturer diagnostic flowcharts is essential for accurate fault isolation. Following the OEM troubleshooting workflow helps identify the root cause efficiently while avoiding unnecessary replacement of timing components, sensors, or electronic control modules.

Recommended Resources

OEM Service and Repair Manual

The OEM Service and Repair Manual is the most reliable resource for diagnosing and repairing a P0016 Crankshaft Camshaft Correlation Fault. It typically includes:

• Diagnostic procedures specific to DTC P0016
• Engine management wiring diagrams and circuit descriptions
• Mechanical timing chain inspection and alignment procedures
• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system diagnostics
• Crankshaft and camshaft position sensor testing procedures
• VVT oil control solenoid diagnostic procedures
• Engine oil pressure testing procedures
• Connector pinout information
• Component locations and removal procedures
• OEM troubleshooting workflows
• Repair specifications and electrical testing procedures

To order the correct OEM Service and Repair Manual for your 2018 MG ZS, submit your request using the form below and our team will provide the ordering details.