P0016 on Ford Explorer
Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor A
Methodology: Reviewed against the SAE J2012 generic DTC definition and NHTSA owner-complaint patterns, then scoped to Ford Explorer context without treating complaints as confirmed diagnoses.
Sources: SAE/OBD-II definitions, manufacturer service information, and public reliability reports (including NHTSA where applicable).
- SAE J2012 Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions — Generic diagnostic trouble code definition reference for P0016.
- NHTSA recalls, complaints, and manufacturer communications — Used to check public owner complaint context, recall status, and safety-related manufacturer communications by VIN or vehicle.
Limits: Guidance is informational and may not match every model-year or revision. Confirm with the official manual and diagnostics before replacing parts. For safety-critical or electrical work, use a qualified technician.
What P0016 Means on Your Ford Explorer
P0016 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor A. This code relates to the fuel and air metering system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.
Real Ford Explorer Owner Reports
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
"The engine light came on a gave a reading of p0016, which is a camshaft position sensor. took my explorer to fred beans ford in mechanicsburg, pa. for inspection. they told me the cam phasers are computer controlled camshaft gears."
"I'm getting cel error code p0016. there is a rattling noise on startup and sometimes during highway driving everyday. my explorer sport has 65,340 miles on it, w ay to soon for a timing chain."
All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year
Common Causes on Ford Explorer
Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.
What To Do Next
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1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
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2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
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3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.