← Back to list

2008 Chevy Cobalt 2.2L P0016 Code: Crankshaft Position Sensor Issue and Solutions

Model: 2008 Chevy Cobalt 2.2 Lt Fault Code: P0016 Posted: 2016-05-04 07:47

My 2008 Chevy Cobalt 2.2L engine light came on last week, prompting me to visit AutoZone where they diagnosed a fault code P0016. The code indicates an issue with the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor or its correlation with the camshaft position (CMP) sensor. The diagnostic report listed three potential causes: intermittent connection, failed crank or cam sensor, and engine mechanical condition. I replaced the crankshaft position sensor, but the problem persisted. After changing the oil, cleaning the sensor mounting hole with a dry shop rag, reinstalling the new sensor, and resetting the system, the engine light came back on shortly after driving about a mile — during which the car lost power. I’m concerned about having to replace the timing chain, as that’s a costly repair. The wiring appears clean, but I’m unsure if there's a hidden short in the harness. I’ve also been wondering whether other components—such as the camshaft sensor or a faulty reluctor wheel on the camshaft—could be causing the CKP sensor to malfunction. I know the sensor itself is new and not the root cause, but I’d like to understand what exactly is going wrong. Is it possible that the camshaft sensor failure could interfere with the crankshaft sensor reading? Or could a misalignment or overheating event have caused the reluctor wheel on the camshaft to move? I’ve read about GM document #PIP4548D, which suggests that in 2.2L (L61 LAP LE8) engines, the camshaft reluctor may shift due to an interference fit and heat exposure — potentially leading to timing misalignment or crank no-start conditions. Can anyone confirm whether P0016 is always related to a sensor failure, or could it be caused by mechanical issues like a loose reluctor? How can I verify the correlation between the cam and crank sensors without specialized tools? And if so, what steps should I take to diagnose this properly?

Related fault codes

P0016

Comments (10)

Anonymous 2016-05-04 08:08

Using an OBD2 scanner can help check the correlation between the camshaft (CMP) and crankshaft (CKP) sensors to determine if timing is off. Reviewing the freeze frame data may reveal clues about when the fault occurred. A wiring issue would typically produce a different diagnostic code.

Anonymous 2016-05-04 08:34

This issue may be related to GM document #PIP4548D, which identifies a potential problem with the camshaft reluctor in 2.2L (L61 LAP LE8) engines. The reluctor is press-fit and not keyed to the camshaft — making it susceptible to movement under heat. Overheating can cause the reluctor to spin on the camshaft, potentially leading to a crank no-start condition if misalignment becomes severe.

Anonymous 2016-05-04 10:46

What does 'overheat condition' mean? I’ve never had overheating issues — my car has been running normally. However, about a year and a half ago, one radiator hose developed a hole and was leaking antifreeze. I drove it for months without fixing it, adding more antifreeze each time. Could that have caused the camshaft to fail? Also, does P0016 mean the camshaft sensor is faulty — or could it be related to the crankshaft sensor? What is GM document #PIP4548D and how can I access it for my 2008 Cobalt?

Anonymous 2016-05-04 11:42

A diagnostic code does not confirm a failed part — parts salespeople often say that to push sales. P0016 indicates a mismatch between the camshaft (CMP) and crankshaft (CKP) sensor readings at Top Dead Center (TDC). Ideally, both sensors should agree on TDC timing. The ECM sets this code when intake CMP pulses occur more than 12 or less than 9 degrees outside of expected position during 25 out of 35 engine cycles. I noticed in your post — did you replace the crankshaft (CKP) sensor or the camshaft (CMP) sensor? This detail is important for accurate diagnosis.

Anonymous 2016-05-04 11:51

I replaced the Crankshaft Position Sensor. If it's not a faulty part, what could be causing this issue?

Anonymous 2016-05-04 12:19

Sorry if this seems confusing — parts stores often oversimplify issues to sell parts. When replacing the CKP sensor, a relearn procedure is required to reset the engine control module. I wonder if the parts clerk mentioned this? I’m guessing there are no other diagnostic codes present. You’ll need an OBD2 scanner: first perform a crankshaft relearn, then check for P0016. Use the scanner to monitor sensor correlation — how many degrees apart they report TDC. If misalignment is detected, you’ll need to inspect the timing chain and verify timing marks against the PIP (Phase In Position) reference. Note: A failed sensor would show up as a separate code or behavior; this issue appears to be about inconsistent sensor data rather than sensor failure.

Anonymous 2016-05-04 12:46

No other diagnostic codes are present. However, I’ve had two incidents in the past six months where dashboard gauges and lights went erratic, and power steering failed — it only happened twice and resolved after turning off the car and waiting several hours before restarting. I also have a recurring issue with my window fuse blowing — this has been happening for nearly two years. The parts clerk did not mention a relearn procedure; I thought simply resetting the engine light would suffice. Can I rent an OBD2 scanner from a parts store? Or do I need to purchase one? What is it called?

Anonymous 2016-05-04 13:14

Again, I’m sorry — the cost of a quality OBD2 scanner for DIYers can be prohibitive. For accurate diagnosis, you’ll likely need professional tools. There’s no evidence that the sensors themselves are faulty — instead, they’re reporting inconsistent data. The issue lies in their signal correlation, not part failure.

Anonymous 2016-05-05 06:53

A friend of mine owns an OBD2 scanner. Unfortunately, he's out of state and won’t be home until the weekend. I found a step-by-step guide online and we’ll try performing the crankshaft relearn process either Saturday or Sunday — depending on when he can help me. Thank you for all your guidance! I’ll update if it resolves the issue.

Anonymous 2016-05-11 07:43

Update: I took my car to a Chevy dealership because my friend was unreliable and it’s been over a week since he offered help. The relearn procedure cost $125, but it turned out that wasn’t the full fix — during sensor replacement, my dad accidentally broke the female connector on the crankshaft sensor, which costs an additional $30. Total repair cost is now around $155. Thanks for all your advice and support!