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P0016 on 2012-2017 Buick Verano 2.4L: Timing Chain and Solenoid Fixes

On a 2012-2017 Buick Verano with the 2.4L Ecotec engine, P0016 almost always indicates a stretched timing chain, a problem accelerated by the engine's known oil consumption issues. Before committing to the costly timing chain job (often $1,500+), check for low engine oil and consider swapping the inexpensive VVT solenoids as a diagnostic step. A dry dipstick is a major red flag.

22 minutes to read 2012-2017 Buick Verano

Most Likely Cause

Stretched Timing Chain and/or Failed Guides/Tensioner

Est. Time

4.2 hrs

DIY Doable?

🔧 Shop

Shop Labor

$150 – $2500

Parts Price

$30 – $550

🚫 Do not drive — Driving is not recommended. The code indicates the timing chain may have stretched or jumped a tooth; if it breaks completely, the pistons will collide with the valves, causing catastrophic and likely irreparable engine damage. Many owners report the vehicle entering a reduced power 'limp mode'.

Key Takeaways

P0016 on this car is a critical warning. Do not drive the vehicle to avoid catastrophic engine failure.
The 2.4L Ecotec engine is known to consume oil. Check your oil level frequently, regardless of the oil life monitor reading.
The most likely cause is a stretched timing chain, which is a major, professional-level repair.
Before authorizing a timing chain replacement, always check the oil level and consider swapping the inexpensive VVT solenoids as a first diagnostic step.
Do not waste money replacing the cam or crank sensors, as they are almost never the root cause of this code.

The trouble code P0016 stands for 'Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation (Bank 1, Sensor A)'. This means the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected that the intake camshaft ('Sensor A') is no longer rotating in sync with the crankshaft. Because the 2.4L Ecotec is an inline engine, 'Bank 1' refers to the entire engine. The ECM sets this code when the sync error exceeds a certain threshold, indicating a serious mechanical timing problem that should be addressed immediately to prevent engine damage.

What's Unique About the 2012-2017 Buick Verano

A 2012-2017 Buick Verano equipped with the 2.4L Ecotec engine, which is prone to oil consumption and timing chain issues. — The 2.4L Ecotec engine in the 2012-2017 Buick Verano has a documented history of oil consumption that leads directly to P0016 timing faults.

The 2.4L Ecotec engine (RPOs LAF, LEA, LUK) in the Verano and its platform-mates has a well-documented history of issues that directly lead to code P0016. These engines are known for excessive oil consumption (over 1 quart per 2,000 miles) due to a piston ring design flaw, a problem acknowledged by GM in TSB 13-06-01-003J. This oil starvation accelerates wear of the timing chain and its hydraulic tensioner, causing the chain to stretch and trigger the P0016 code. Additionally, a clogged PCV orifice in the intake manifold (TSB 14882) can increase crankcase pressure, worsen oil consumption, and even blow out seals. Therefore, on this specific vehicle, the code is almost always a symptom of a larger, well-known mechanical issue rather than a simple sensor failure.

Professional service recommended: This code usually indicates a stretched timing chain, which is a complex, labor-intensive repair requiring specialized tools and knowledge to avoid catastrophic engine damage. 🎬 Watch: Full timing chain replacement walkthrough for the Buick Verano The job involves removing the engine cover, oil pan, and harmonic balancer.

Symptoms You May Notice

Check Engine Light is on
Engine rattling noise, especially on a cold start, that sounds like a chain slapping around.
Rough idling or stalling, especially when stopped at a light.
Reduced engine power or sluggish acceleration
Engine cranks but won't start in severe cases
Poor fuel economy
StabiliTrak warning light may illuminate alongside the Check Engine Light.

⚠️ Don't Waste Money on the Wrong Fix

Replacing the camshaft position sensor. The sensor is usually just accurately reporting the timing correlation problem; it is not the cause.
Replacing the crankshaft position sensor. Like the cam sensor, this part is extremely unlikely to be the cause of a correlation fault.
Replacing only the VVT solenoids without addressing the underlying cause. A Reddit user reported their boyfriend's 2015 Verano had the solenoids replaced, but the engine blew up later because the root cause (likely the timing chain) was ignored.

Most Likely Causes

Side-by-side comparison of a healthy, tight timing chain versus a stretched chain with broken plastic guides on a 2.4L engine. — A primary cause of P0016: On the left, a properly tensioned chain; on the right, a stretched chain with broken guides typical of high-mileage Ecotec engines.

Stretched Timing Chain and/or Failed Guides/Tensioner 🔴 High Probability The 2.4L Ecotec is known for premature timing chain wear, often accelerated by oil starvation from high oil consumption. The plastic guides can also become brittle and break. Low oil pressure compromises the hydraulic tensioner's ability to keep the chain taut.
How to confirm: A mechanic will remove the timing cover to physically inspect the chain for slack and check for broken guide material. Finding plastic pieces on the VVT solenoid screens or in the oil pan is a definitive sign of failure. A rattling noise from the passenger side of the engine is a strong indicator.
Typical fix: Replacement of the entire timing chain kit, including the chain, tensioner, and all guides. The balance shaft chain and its components are typically replaced at the same time. The oil pan must be dropped and cleaned of all plastic debris.
Est. part cost: $150-$450
Low or Dirty Engine Oil 🟡 Medium Probability These engines are known for consuming oil, and the vehicle's oil life monitor may not accurately reflect the true oil level. TSB 13-06-01-003J notes that no oil may appear on the dipstick if the engine is low by 1.25 quarts or more. Low oil pressure starves the VVT system and timing chain tensioner.
How to confirm: Physically check the oil level on the dipstick. If it is low or the dipstick is dry, top it off with the correct 5W-30 full synthetic oil. Note the oil's condition; if it is very dark or sludgy, it needs to be changed. An oil change alone will not fix a P0016 that has already appeared, as damage has likely already occurred.
Typical fix: Perform an oil and filter change using a high-quality full synthetic 5W-30 oil that meets dexos1 specifications. Clear the codes and see if P0016 returns. This is a critical first step, but rarely the final solution once the code is set.
Est. part cost: $40-$80
Faulty Intake Camshaft Actuator Solenoid (VVT Solenoid) ⚪ Low Probability Oil sludge or debris from failing timing chain guides can clog the fine mesh screens on the solenoid, causing it to stick or respond slowly.
How to confirm: A simple diagnostic test is to swap the intake solenoid (front of the engine, often with a gray connector) with the exhaust solenoid (rear of the engine, often with a black connector). If the code changes to P0017 (Exhaust Camshaft Correlation), the solenoid is confirmed to be faulty. Before swapping, inspect the screens on both solenoids for metal or plastic debris, which indicates a more serious timing chain issue.
Typical fix: Replace the faulty solenoid. It is often recommended to replace both the intake and exhaust solenoids as a pair. 🎬 See how to easily replace the VVT solenoids yourself This is a cheap and easy first step, but often does not resolve the P0016 on this engine.
Est. part cost: $30-$60

Rare But Worth Checking

Spun Camshaft Reluctor Ring: GM Technical Service Bulletin PIP4548F (and later versions) notes that the reluctor ring (tone wheel) on the camshaft is press-fit and can spin out of position, especially after an overheat event. This will cause a P0016/P0017 code even if the timing chain is perfectly aligned. The fix requires camshaft replacement as the ring cannot be repositioned.

Diagnosis Steps

Check the engine oil level and condition immediately. If low or dirty, perform an oil and filter change using full synthetic 5W-30 oil. A dry dipstick is a common and severe symptom. Clear codes and see if they return, but do not assume this is a fix.
Inspect the VVT solenoids. Remove both the intake (front) and exhaust (rear) solenoids and check their screens for metal shavings or plastic debris. Debris is a clear sign of timing guide failure.
Swap the intake and exhaust solenoids. Clear the codes and drive the vehicle. If the code changes from P0016 to P0017, the solenoid you moved to the exhaust position is faulty and must be replaced.
If the oil is full and the solenoids are clean and functional, the next step is to assume a mechanical timing issue.
Use a scan tool to observe cam and crank sensor data. An oscilloscope can provide a definitive waveform to confirm the timing relationship is off.
Have a professional remove the valve cover and/or timing cover to physically inspect the timing chain for slack and look for broken plastic guide material. This is the definitive diagnostic step.
Check for a clogged PCV orifice in the intake manifold per TSB 14882, as this contributes to the oil consumption that causes the timing failure.

Parts You'll Likely Need

A complete timing chain replacement kit including the chain, hydraulic tensioner, and plastic guides for a 2.4L engine. — A complete timing chain kit is usually required to fix P0016 permanently, as replacing just the sensors rarely solves the underlying mechanical stretch.

Engine Timing Chain Kit (OEM #12680750) — This is the most common cause of P0016 on the 2.4L Ecotec. A complete kit replaces the stretched chain, failed tensioner, and brittle guides.
Trusted brands: ACDelco, Cloyes
OEM price range: $150-$230
Aftermarket price range: $100-$180
Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid (OEM #12655420) — A less common but much cheaper potential fix. These can get clogged with debris or fail electrically, causing timing control issues. Often has a gray electrical connector.
Trusted brands: ACDelco, Delphi
OEM price range: $40-$70
Aftermarket price range: $25-$50
Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid (OEM #12655421) — Often replaced as a pair with the intake solenoid. Useful for swapping during diagnosis. Often has a black electrical connector.
Trusted brands: ACDelco, Delphi
OEM price range: $40-$70
Aftermarket price range: $25-$50

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

P0017 — Exhaust Camshaft Position Correlation. Seeing P0016 and P0017 together strongly indicates a base timing issue, as a stretched chain affects both camshafts.
P0011 — Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced. This can be caused by a sticking VVT solenoid or a stretched chain causing the ECM to see an implausible value.
P0087 / P228D — Fuel Pressure Regulator Performance. The high-pressure fuel pump is driven by a lobe on the intake camshaft. Incorrect cam timing from a stretched chain can disrupt fuel pump operation and set these codes. Seeing these with P0016 strongly points to a timing chain issue, not a fuel system issue.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

13-06-01-003J: Details the procedure for performing an oil consumption test and, if consumption exceeds 1 quart per 2,000 miles, replacing the pistons and rings. It also notes the dipstick can read empty when only ~1.25 quarts low.
14882: A special coverage adjustment for a plugged PCV orifice in the intake manifold, which can cause high crankcase pressure and oil leaks. It covers cleaning the orifice for up to 10 years/120,000 miles.
PIP4548F: Diagnostic aid for P0016/P0017 caused by a spun camshaft reluctor ring, which is press-fit and not keyed. Advises camshaft replacement if the reluctor has moved. Bulletin #PIP4548F also advises technicians to inspect the respective camshafts if the engine is properly timed but still sets these codes or exhibits a crank-but-no-start condition.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

Excessive oil consumption is a widely documented problem for this engine, often requiring new pistons and rings to permanently fix, as outlined in TSB 13-06-01-003J. This is a primary contributor to timing chain failure. The TSB specifies the acceptable consumption rate is less than 1 quart per 2,000 miles.
A clogged Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) orifice in the intake manifold is another known issue (TSB 14882) that can affect crankcase pressure, leading to oil consumption and even blown rear main seals. A simple test involves blocking the fresh air PCV tube and listening for changes in engine sound.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

VVT Actuator Solenoid Resistance — expected: 8 to 13 Ohms. Failure: A reading outside this range, an open circuit (OL), or a resistance reading that is unstable and bounces around when wiggling the connector indicates a faulty solenoid.
Camshaft Position Sensor (3-wire Hall Effect) Signal Voltage — expected: The signal wire should switch between approximately 5V and 0V as a metal object (like the reluctor wheel) passes the sensor tip.. Failure: Voltage that does not switch, or is stuck at 0V or 5V, indicates a failed sensor.
Camshaft End Play — expected: Less than 0.40 mm (0.016 in). Failure: If end play is equal to or greater than 0.40 mm, the camshaft can shift axially, causing the reluctor wheel to misalign with the sensor and trigger correlation codes.
Cam/Crank Waveform Sync (Oscilloscope) — expected: At idle, the 17th signal pulse of the crankshaft sensor (CKP) after the missing tooth gap should align with the rising edge (high signal) of the camshaft sensor (CMP) waveform.. Failure: Misalignment of these two signal events indicates a base timing or phaser problem.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

GDS2 (or equivalent professional scan tool): VVT Actuator Test / Oil Control Valve (OCV) Actuation — After verifying oil level and solenoid resistance, this command manually activates the VVT solenoid. A healthy engine should hesitate or stall, confirming the solenoid, oil passages, and phaser are mechanically responding to the command. If there is no change in engine operation, it points to a clogged solenoid, blocked oil passage, or a stuck phaser.

Wiring & Ground Locations

G107 / G108 — G107 is often found on the lower left side of the engine block or on the transmission housing. G108 is often on the right rear of the engine block.. These are primary engine-to-chassis grounds. A loose or corroded connection at these points can create an unstable ground reference for the ECM and its sensors (cam, crank), leading to erratic signals and false correlation codes.
VVT Solenoid Connectors — On top of the valve cover, at the front and rear of the engine.. The intake solenoid connector is typically gray, and the exhaust is black. While keyed differently, verifying they are not damaged and are connected to the correct solenoid is a basic but crucial visual check.

Real Owner Repair Stories

Chevy Equinox Forum user '51r' (2017 GMC Terrain 2.4L Ecotec) — Check Engine Light with codes P0016, P0011, P228D after a few miles of driving. Car runs okay.
❌ Tried (didn't work) Replaced the timing chain and components (even though the original chain appeared to be in time and not stretched).
✅ What actually fixed it The code P0016 still returned after the timing chain replacement. The final fix was replacing the intake VVT solenoid and the intake camshaft position sensor with genuine GM/ACDelco parts and cleaning the reluctor wheel on the camshaft.
BobIsTheOilGuy Forum user 'ironman_gq' (2016 Chevrolet Equinox 2.4L Ecotec, 63,000 miles) — Engine jumped time and bent valves.
❌ Tried (didn't work) Regular maintenance and oil changes did not prevent the failure.
✅ What actually fixed it The timing chain failure required a major engine repair (fixing bent valves). The owner noted that even after the repair, the engine developed new noises, and they sold the vehicle. This story highlights that failure can occur even on lower-mileage, maintained engines.

"I Checked Everything" — The Actual Cause

The diagnostic equivalent for this timing code is 'timing marks align, but the code persists.' A forum user with a 2.4L Ecotec reported that after getting a P0016, they opened the engine, confirmed the timing marks were perfectly aligned, and even replaced the timing chain as a precaution. The code immediately returned. The problem was only resolved after replacing the intake VVT solenoid and camshaft position sensor with OEM parts, suggesting a failure of the control or sensor components can mimic a mechanical timing fault.

OEM Part Supersession History

12655420 → 12679099 — This is the Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve. Part numbers are often superseded due to design improvements or manufacturing changes.
Heads up: The new part number (12679099) is the correct current replacement for the original. Using old stock of 12655420 is acceptable, but ordering the new number is preferred.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

2012-2017: The 2.4L Ecotec came in LAF and LEA variants. The Verano primarily used the LEA (dual VVT, FlexFuel). However, if sourcing a used engine, be aware of differences. When swapping an older LAF engine with a newer LEA, the intake camshaft and sprocket from the original LAF engine must be transferred to the LEA block for the camshaft position sensor and ECM to function correctly, as the reluctor wheel and phaser designs are not interchangeable between the two engine computers.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Start by checking the engine oil level—the 2.4L Ecotec is notorious for oil consumption that starves the VVT system and destroys timing chains. A dry dipstick is your first major clue.

Top off or change the oil with 5W-30 full synthetic (dexos1), clear the codes, and drive. What happens?

Remove the Intake VVT Solenoid (front, gray connector) and Exhaust VVT Solenoid (rear, black connector). Inspect their fine mesh screens. What do you see?

→ Definitive sign of 2.4L Ecotec timing chain guide failure. Replace the entire timing chain kit, balance shaft chain, and drop the oil pan to clean out all plastic debris.

Swap the intake and exhaust VVT solenoids, clear the codes, and drive the vehicle. Which code returns?

→ The solenoid you moved to the exhaust position is faulty. Replace the VVT solenoid (replacing both as a pair is recommended).

Listen closely to the passenger side of the engine, especially during a cold start. Do you hear a rattling 'chain slapping' noise?

→ The timing chain is stretched or the hydraulic tensioner has failed due to low oil pressure. Remove the timing cover to physically inspect and replace the timing chain kit.

If the chain is tight and solenoids are good, use an oscilloscope to check the cam/crank waveforms. Is the mechanical timing physically off?

→ Check for a spun camshaft reluctor ring per GM diagnostic aid PIP4548F. The reluctor is press-fit (not keyed) and can slip, requiring camshaft replacement.

→ Inspect the wiring harness and connectors to the intake camshaft position sensor and VVT solenoid for chafing, corrosion, or poor pin fitment.

→ Perform an oil consumption test per TSB 13-06-01-003J (may require new pistons/rings). Also check for a clogged PCV orifice in the intake manifold per TSB 14882, which blows out seals and burns oil.