SureTrack Real Fix: That’s a Stretch

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Real Fixes from the SureTrack® expert information resource are documented issues from actual shop repair records and community discussions. Read on to see how SureTrack can help you correct issues that are not easily diagnosed using OEM information alone. SureTrack is available at no additional cost in our ProDemand product.

Sometimes you may not have the special tools to repair a customer’s vehicle but one of the most useful special tools you do have available is the SureTrack Community. SureTrack community member Jeffytune had an Audi A4 Allroad in their shop that had a starting issue and also a code related to the timing system. They posed the question to the community, and with the help of fellow community member Kg1 and others, they were able to resolve the issue quickly.

The following Community Fix summarizes the interaction between members of the community that led to the solution.

Vehicle
2014 Audi allroad Premium Plus 2.0L

Title
Code P0016, stretched timing chain.

Complaint
Customer states that check engine light is on and has a starting issue.

Diagnostic Steps Performed/Parts Replaced
The vehicle came in with a low fuel pressure code, now it has code P0016 – Crankshaft Position – Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor A. We replaced a poor reading high fuel pressure sensor and then it had an issue with starting, we found the crankshaft sensor had a weak output, we replaced it and all was good, for a day. Then it came in with a different code P0016, this time reading cam/crank correlation. We did the testing for the camshaft sensor and replaced it. Now it started fine for a couple days, now it has returned with this same P0016 correlation code. This vehicle has 55K one the clock, and all else seams normal. There does not seem to be any service bulletins and I do not know if there is a reflash to fix this. It really runs fine except it sometimes is hard to start and it keeps setting this code. Any suggestions?

Best Answer from Community Member Kg1
Most likely the timing chain is stretched. We have seen stretched chain set low as well as high fuel pressure codes at the same time. If the chain is stretched enough, the timing of the high pressure fuel pump is not correct and that is what sets the fuel pressure codes. You should be able to either check data pids for stretch data or pull the plug in the lower cover to access the tensioner. If the plunger is extended a fair amount then it needs chain.

Cause
The timing chain was indeed stretched. Sent vehicle to a specialty shop for chain replacement as we do not work on Audis that often and did not have the proper tools for replacing the chain.

Correction
Stretched timing chain was replaced and vehicle no longer has starting issues and code has not returned.

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About the Author

Nick Taylor

Nick Taylor is the SureTrack Community Administrator and a Senior Applications Specialist at Mitchell 1 with over 25 years of experience with electronic repair data systems. Nick previously worked in the automotive dismantling and engine rebuilding industries.