P1016
Universal (All Makes) Vehicle (OBD-II)
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
P1016 means Camshaft Position Actuator Control Circuit (Bank 1, Exhaust) has a fault. This code is typically set on engines with variable valve timing (VVT) on the exhaust camshaft. The oil control valve (OCV) that controls exhaust cam timing has an issue with its control circuit. You may experience rough idle, loss of power, poor fuel economy, or the engine running lean or rich.
Affected Models
- Engines with dual variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts
- Common in GM 3.6L V6 engines (LFX) in Cadillac, Buick, and Chevrolet
- Common in GM 2.0T and 2.5L four-cylinder engines
- Common in some Pontiac and Saturn vehicles with GM Ecotec engines
Common Causes
- Failed oil control valve (OCV) for the exhaust cam with an open or shorted coil
- Low or dirty engine oil reducing the ability to actuate the cam phaser
- Sludge buildup in the OCV or cam phaser passages from neglected oil changes
- Damaged or corroded OCV wiring harness connector
- Faulty PCM output driver for the exhaust cam actuator circuit
How to Fix It
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Check engine oil level and condition immediately. Low or severely degraded oil is the primary cause of VVT system failures.
If the oil is dark, gritty, or has sludge on the dipstick, an oil change is mandatory before any further diagnosis.
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Locate the exhaust camshaft oil control valve (OCV) on Bank 1. It is typically a cylindrical solenoid mounted in the front of the cylinder head.
On GM 3.6L engines, there are four OCVs total — two per bank. Bank 1 exhaust is typically at the rear of the engine.
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Test the OCV coil resistance with a multimeter. Typical spec is 6 to 12 ohms. An open or shorted reading confirms OCV failure.
Also check for 12V supply and a proper ground at the OCV connector with the ignition on.
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Remove and inspect the OCV screen filter. A clogged screen from oil sludge prevents adequate oil flow to the cam phaser.
Clean or replace the OCV and screen. If severe sludge is present, an oil system flush may be needed.
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Replace the OCV if it fails the electrical test or if the screen was severely clogged. Clear codes and perform a full warm-up drive cycle.
Monitor cam timing on a scan tool during the drive. The cam should advance and retract smoothly with throttle changes.
When to Call a Professional
OCV replacement costs $100 to $300 parts and labor. If sludge is the root cause, an engine cleaning service adds $100 to $300. Cam phaser replacement is $400 to $900 if the phaser itself is damaged. PCM replacement and programming runs $400 to $900.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can skipping oil changes cause P1016?
Yes — the cam phaser and oil control valve are lubricated and actuated by engine oil. Negected oil changes lead to sludge that clogs the OCV screen and phaser passages. P1016 and other VVT codes are very common on engines with long oil change intervals.
Is P1016 the same on all vehicles?
P1016 is a manufacturer-specific code and not universally defined. On GM vehicles it typically refers to the exhaust cam actuator circuit. The exact definition can vary — always confirm with a vehicle-specific scan tool.
How do I prevent VVT codes from coming back?
Change the engine oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles with a high-quality synthetic oil. Use the manufacturer-specified oil grade (usually 0W-20 or 5W-30). Thick or dirty oil is the number one enemy of variable valve timing systems.