← Back to list

P0016 OBD2 Code in 2009 Mazda5: Causes, Diagnosis & Solutions

Model: mazda5 Fault Code: P0016 Posted: 2016-07-16 12:41

Hi everyone, I've a quick question about my 2009 Mazda5. I recently purchased the vehicle two weeks ago and during maintenance, we replaced both the camshaft position sensor and the fuel line. Despite these repairs, the check engine light remains on and continues to show code P0016. The car runs smoothly—no starting issues or performance problems—and I'm now trying to figure out what might be causing this. I also spoke with the warranty provider, who confirmed that the engine was replaced in May of this year. Given this history, I’m wondering if there could be a connection between the replacement and the recurring P0016 code. Any insights or suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Thanks for your help!

Related fault codes
P0016
Comments (6)
Anonymous 2016-07-16 12:49

Here's an overview of OBD2 code P0016: http://www.obd-codes.com/p0016. Do you have access to a diagnostic scanner? Can you check live data from the engine? Also, did you erase the P0016 code after replacing the camshaft sensor—has it returned since then?

Anonymous 2016-07-16 13:48

We do have a diagnostic machine and we’ve successfully erased the P0016 code. However, after driving for several miles, the code reappears. We even took the car to a garage where they replaced the crankshaft sensor—yet the issue persists.

Anonymous 2016-07-16 14:19

There's a difference between a basic code reader and a full diagnostic scanner. Similarly, a cell phone is not the same as a smart phone. The P0016 code indicates an intermittent disagreement between the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors regarding top dead center (TDC) timing—this is known as sensor correlation. Before diving into complex diagnostics, check engine oil levels. Ensure it's at proper level, regularly changed, and using the correct type. As a simple, low-cost step, consider adding one bottle of 'RISOLONE' engine oil treatment—it helps improve lubrication and reduce sensor interference. I can provide more details if needed.

Anonymous 2016-07-16 14:42

First, no need to be overly defensive—this was just a simple question seeking different perspectives. Second, yes—the sensor was replaced because that’s the code that keeps reappearing. I thought this forum would offer helpful insights, but some responses seem dismissive or unhelpful. There's a difference between offering support and being unnecessarily sarcastic.

Anonymous 2016-07-16 15:02

I didn’t mean to come across as anything other than straightforward—my tone may have been dry and British, which I apologize for. I’m trying to keep things simple without using technical jargon that might confuse readers. The P0016 code does not specifically indicate a faulty sensor—it points to a timing inconsistency between the crankshaft and camshaft sensors. If you have more questions, I’d be happy to answer them clearly and simply.

Anonymous 2016-11-14 15:41

Thanks for your response—your comments weren’t at all 'smart a$$' in any way. Everything you said was accurate and helpful. I’m actually British by origin and have always been known for my dry, sarcastic humor (a trait often joked about). Maybe the original poster is American, but that doesn't make us less smart. In fact, I believe our American friends are just as capable—perhaps even more so! (Go Trump!)