So from reading on here, I've seen a post where the ECU can set this code when in reality it meant to set codes P0011 or P0012. The engine was completely rebuilt. I double checked the timing no less than 50 times before sealing it up. I followed the FSM in regards to setting the timing chain, the tensioner, etc. The main issue, however, is this car sat for a little over 15 months with a full tank of gas, and I didn't want to mess with emptying it. Now if it was a couple gallons, then there would be way more oxygen than gasoline which would cause deterioration of the fuel, but it was completely full. Is it possible the old gas is causing the ECU to set the timing so far, it's triggering error codes? I ran the engine for about 20 minutes straight before P0016 was even a pending code, it only popped up a few hours later, so I'd assume the code is due to a sensor error or possibly bad gas, rather than a mechanical failure. There's been zero change in how the engine itself sounds as well.
I do not have an easy answer for you. The crankshaft (CKP) and intake camshaft (CMP) sensors each generate a pattern of signals to "tell" the ECM what the rotational position is. P0011, P0012, and P0016 all basically indicate that the ECM doesn't like the CMP to CKP correlation. In theory, the "when" that the fault happens should determine which code is set, but sometimes the ECM gets it wrong. The "best" way I know of to chase the fault is to use a 2 channel oscilloscope to see the CMP & CKP signals as the ECM does. Is the cam timing ok, or is it incorrect - how does it change when the Variable Valve Timing solenoid works, etc. But not many DIY'ers have access to a scope. A capable scantool lets you get some info from the ECM, but Toyota "messed up" (disabled) VVT data. It is present in the VVT bidirectional test, but I don't know if - how that would display for a base cam timing fault. Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
There are some pretty inexpensive ones available these days. For instance (picked at random from among many): B089GG14BP on Amazon (links to that site don't work here) which is only $179.
Yep, you just have to be able to use it. If the OP wants to learn scoping, then I'm all on board. How often do we see that someone doesn't have a DVOM? Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
I just retired out of an electronics shop. Lots of kids don't know how to use an O-scope, much less overlap multiple signals. In fact, I think I'm the only one who's used it. Management tried to throw it away on several occasions. The majority of current staff just throw parts at problems or call in the vendor. Departmental cost has been skyrocketing also; I wonder why? Just my 2-cents... Have you checked the wiring & connectors? If the mechanical timing was off, the engine wouldn't run properly. Also check the vvt mechanics are free and not binding up.
