2018 Kia Soul P0016 code—crankshaft and camshaft position correlation issue?

Kia Models Forum Soul
1

I’m getting a P0016 code on my 2018 Kia Soul + 2.0. It’s indicating a crankshaft position-camshaft position correlation issue on Bank 1 Sensor A (intake). The engine has 83k miles and burns some oil, but I’ve been keeping it topped off. The oil was a quart low before I started troubleshooting, and I’ve noticed it occasionally rattles on cold starts, though it seems to build oil pressure after.

I’ve checked live data with an Autel TS608 scanner. The actual and desired intake camshaft positions seem within spec at idle, and the duty cycle looks fine. However, the code keeps coming back even after topping off the oil and clearing it. Has anyone experienced this before? Could this be a phaser or timing issue?

2

It could be low oil pressure on startup causing the timing chain tensioner to fail momentarily. That would explain the rattle and the intermittent code.

3

Gordon said:
It could be low oil pressure on startup causing the timing chain tensioner to fail momentarily. That would explain the rattle and the intermittent code.

Agreed. I’d check the oil pressure at startup if possible. You might need a mechanical gauge for an accurate reading.

4

This sounds like it might be a dirty oil issue affecting the camshaft phaser. When was the last time the oil was changed?

5

KiaGuru said:
This sounds like it might be a dirty oil issue affecting the camshaft phaser. When was the last time the oil was changed?

It’s still within 1500 miles of the next change, but with oil consumption, it might not be circulating cleanly. Maybe try a high-quality oil flush?

6

If you’re hearing rattling, I’d also inspect the timing chain and tensioner. A stretched chain or weak tensioner could cause this.

7

Check the camshaft position sensor wiring and connectors too. A bad connection could cause intermittent issues like this.

8

If you’re still stuck, a cold start test with live data might help pinpoint the issue. Monitor the camshaft angles closely when you start the engine.