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Dodge Charger P0016 Engine Light On After Replacing Camshaft and Crankshaft Sensors

Model: Dodge Charger Fault Code: P0016 Posted: 2019-07-28 16:10

My Dodge Charger's engine light is on, and the diagnostic check revealed code P0016 — indicating an issue with the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors. I had both sensors replaced, but the engine light remains illuminated. The mechanic attempted to clear the code, only for it to return immediately. What should I do next? Possible causes include a stretched timing chain, timing belt skipping a tooth due to wear, misalignment of the timing components, or failure of tone rings on either the crankshaft or camshaft. Additionally, damaged wiring to the sensors or a faulty tensioner could be contributing factors. Given that both sensors were recently replaced and the issue persists, I suspect a deeper mechanical problem or an incorrect diagnosis. I'm now considering whether to return to the mechanic for a re-evaluation with proper diagnostic tools, such as an OBD2 scanner capable of monitoring camshaft and crankshaft correlation in real time.

Related fault codes
P0016
Comments (7)
Anonymous 2019-07-28 16:49

Common causes of P0016 include: timing chain stretched or timing belt skipping a tooth due to wear, misalignment of the timing belt or chain, slipped or broken tone rings on crankshaft or camshaft, faulty crankshaft or camshaft position sensors, damaged wiring to sensors, or a malfunctioning tensioner. Possible solutions: inspect and replace components as needed. If the issue persists after sensor replacement, consider re-evaluating the diagnosis — it's possible the mechanic misdiagnosed the problem. Read more about P0016 on official OBD2 resources. Returning to the shop for a proper diagnostic with real-time sensor data may be necessary.

Anonymous 2019-07-28 16:54

The timing chain tensioner was replaced last Wednesday, and the mechanic confirmed that the engine timing is correct. Based on this, the issue might now point toward damaged wiring or faulty sensor connections rather than mechanical misalignment.

Anonymous 2019-07-28 16:56

Both the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors were replaced yesterday — no changes in the P0016 code or engine light behavior so far.

Anonymous 2019-07-28 18:47

This situation involves a significant number of part replacements. It seems like the diagnosis may not be accurate. A proper evaluation using an oscilloscope to monitor camshaft and crankshaft signals in real time would help isolate whether the issue lies with sensors, timing components, or wiring.

Anonymous 2019-07-28 19:03

I'll follow up with the mechanic and request a full diagnostic scan with live data monitoring before making any further decisions.

Anonymous 2019-07-28 21:05

Last fall, I had an OBD2 code related to my catalytic converter. I took it to a friend’s brother's shop; he installed only three of the four oxygen sensors I bought. Since then, codes P0700 and P0740 have appeared — they’ve been present since around Christmas 2018. I drive a 2006 Jeep Liberty with a 3.7L engine. The vehicle runs fine — I reach speeds over 90 MPH on highways. At age 73, I've driven for over 50 years, mostly in NYC and now in Pennsylvania. I'm wondering if this will pass emissions inspection despite no noticeable performance issues? Any guidance would be appreciated.

Anonymous 2019-07-29 11:00

Hey Richard — ideally you should have started a new topic so it doesn't get mixed with this one. Anyway, at 73 and still driving, that's impressive! I hope the Delaware Water Gap is nearby. To clarify: your vehicle will NOT pass emissions inspection if P0700 and P0740 are present. P0700 indicates a transmission control issue, while P0740 (TCC out of range) points to a transmission problem. First step: check and replace the transmission fluid and filter. Then use a professional-grade OBD2 scanner to verify all codes — it's unclear how you're getting these codes without proper diagnostics.