Q: How do I fix a P0016 code for a 2009 bmw 328i

asked by on March 15, 2017

The car shakes and the engine surges, and idles erratically. I put a new valve cover in and the car started having these problems. What are the possible solutions to fixing this?
My car has an automatic transmission.

Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement $120.83 - $900.50 Get a Quote

Hi There, Code P0016 relates to the crankshaft position sensor. A crankshaft position sensor is an electronic device used to monitor the position or rotational speed of the crankshaft. This information is used by engine management systems to control the fuel injection or the ignition system timing and other engine parameters. When this is faulty or not working properly, this will cause problems with the ignition system and generating spark transmission to the spark plugs resulting in starting problems and other performance issues causing misfires. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose and replace your crankshaft position sensor.

Hi there. The P0016 OBD-II trouble code indicates that the camshaft position sensor for bank 1 does not correlate to the signal from the crankshaft position sensor. In some cases it can cause the symptoms you are experiencing. You might want to read this article on this error code, as it will outline the possible causes, and solutions for repairing this issue. Although it’s not listed in the article, you might want to retrace your steps on the replacement of the valve cover, as it’s possible that the electrical connection to the camshaft position sensor may have not been fully installed or has been damaged.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

The fuel pump and dashboard lights indicator shut off after the 4 wires in the neutral safety switch shorted out
It sounds like you may some blown fuses from that shorted switch. Inspect the fuses and replace as necessary. An electrical wiring diagram and a digital volt/ohm meter will be needed for further diagnosis if replacing the fuses does not...
Dies out at start, squealing/whistling sound, battery light comes on when it dies and wont stay running unless hold my foot the on gas.
A motor needs more fuel to run cold than it does after it warms up. There are number of conditions that can exist that will create this problem. First I will address a few things you mentioned in your question....
Pulsating brakes.
Hello. All of the things that you listed could potentially cause the pedal to pulsate. If a wheel hub was recently replaced then I would move on to looking at the other hubs, as well as the rotors and pads....
Oxygen sensor
The code P0132 is for the O2 sensor in the rear manifold of the engine. The code is for a short to power and should be checked to see if the harness is shorted. You should not have the sensor...
My car is not starting.
Hi There, This may be related to many different possibilities, some of which may be related to a lack of spark and some of which may be related to a fuel delivery problem or a combination of both. Things like...
Why is my car violently shaking and my check engine light and HOLD light are flashing?
Hi There, This can happen for many different reasons. The check engine light will come on when any of the following issues are detected by your vehicle's computer. Shaking or vibration (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/engine-is-shaking-pulsating-or-vibrating-inspection) may be caused by things such as faulty...
Frequent flickering of interior / dash board lights.
Your car has about a dozen modules spread around the body that control various functions. I have dealt with a similar problem in the past and eventually found a connector on one of the SAM's (signal acquisition modules) that was...
Car won't crank or turn on.
Prior to performing diagnostics be sure that you have a fully, 100% charged battery that passes a load test (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-is-dead-inspection). Then, confirm that the engine immobilizer system (security system) is not activated thus preventing the car from starting. If the...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 BMW X5 xDrive35d
The The 2012 BMW X5 xDrive35d offer contour seats and smooth acceleration. The suspension offers a smooth ride to the driver and passengers in the vehicle, even for long road trips. It can handle tight curves without any problem while...
How Long Does a Speedometer Sensor Last?
While While a mechanical speedometer will use a speedometer cable attached to the driveshaft and transmission, that’s not the case with an electronic speedometer, such as is used in most modern vehicles. These use a speedometer sensor. It’s mounted to...
How to Replace a Manifold Temperature Sensor
Signs of a failing manifold temperature sensor include rough idling and a rough running engine, and may result in a failed emissions test.