P001600 – Crankshaft / Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A) (VAG 1.8 TSI / TFSI EA888 Gen 1 & Gen 2)
On VAG vehicles, fault code P001600 (OBD2: P0016) means "Crankshaft / Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A)". It is common on 1.8 TSI / TFSI EA888 Gen 1 & Gen 2 (e.g. CDAA, CDAB, CABB), 2.0 TSI / TFSI EA888 Gen 1 & Gen 2 (e.g. CCTA, CAWB, CDNC) engines. Below are the real-world causes, step-by-step tests and OEM part numbers.
Last updated
P001600 quick summary
| Fault code | P001600 |
|---|---|
| OBD2 code | P0016 |
| Meaning | Crankshaft / Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1 Sensor A) |
| System | Powertrain (Engine & Transmission) |
| Vehicles | VAG (VW, Audi, Škoda, Seat) |
| Common on | 1.8 TSI / TFSI EA888 Gen 1 & Gen 2 (e.g. CDAA, CDAB, CABB), 2.0 TSI / TFSI EA888 Gen 1 & Gen 2 (e.g. CCTA, CAWB, CDNC) |
| Severity | Critical |
| Can I drive? | No – or only to the workshop. If the timing chain jumps a tooth, the valves can hit the pistons and destroy the engine. |
| Repair cost | €300 – €2,500 |
Symptoms of P001600
- Metallic rattle from the timing chain for the first seconds after a cold start
- Rattle that lasts longer as wear increases
- Rough idle, loss of power, higher fuel consumption
- Check Engine light on, often with P0017 as well
- In the worst case: engine does not start after the chain jumps
Most common causes of P001600 (most likely first)
Mechanic's Pro Tip
On EA888 Gen 1 and Gen 2 engines built up to about 2012, the early hydraulic chain tensioner can lose oil pressure after the engine stops. At the next cold start the chain is slack for a moment and can jump. A cold-start rattle on these engines is a warning, not a nuisance – have the chain stretch checked before it becomes an engine rebuild.
1.Early-type hydraulic timing chain tensioner losing pressure (Gen 1 / Gen 2)
Most likely2.Stretched timing chain and worn guide rails
3.Chain already jumped a tooth
4.Faulty camshaft adjuster or adjuster solenoid
5.Faulty camshaft or crankshaft position sensor
Step-by-step diagnostic guide
- 1
Read the fault memory in Engine (01); note P0016/P0017 and any camshaft adjuster codes.
- 2
Check the camshaft phase deviation (cam/crank correlation values) in the measuring values with VCDS, OBDeleven or ODIS and compare with the limit for your engine.
- 3
Listen for a cold-start rattle and, where access allows, inspect the tensioner and guide rails with an endoscope.
- 4
If the chain is within tolerance, replacing the tensioner with the updated version may be enough; if it is stretched, replace the complete timing drive (chain, tensioner, rails, sprockets).
- 5
After the repair, re-check the camshaft phase values.
Frequently asked questions
Which EA888 engines are affected?
Mainly Gen 1 and Gen 2 1.8 and 2.0 TSI/TFSI engines built up to about 2012 in VW, Audi, Škoda and Seat models. Gen 3 engines have a revised tensioner and are much less affected.
How much does a timing chain replacement cost on the EA888?
Replacing only the tensioner costs a few hundred euros. A complete timing chain kit with tensioner and rails typically costs about 500–2,500 € depending on the engine and workshop, because the chain is on the gearbox side and access is difficult.
Related fault codes
- P0011Intake Camshaft Position Timing – Over-Advanced (Bank 1)
- P0340Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction
- 16684Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected (Older VAG 5-Digit Code)
- 17544Long Term Fuel Trim Add. Air, Bank 1: System Too Lean
- 17705Pressure Drop Between Turbocharger and Throttle Valve
- 17748Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Sensor Signals Out of Sequence
This guide is for information only. Working on vehicles can be dangerous — if you are unsure, have the car checked by a qualified mechanic. Values can differ between model years; always check the manufacturer's repair information.