Codes P0016 and P0017

Tiny
MARCUS CONNORS
  • MEMBER
  • 2006 MERCEDES BENZ C280
  • 3.0L
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 136,500 MILES
I just bought this car on Wednesday. Check engine light was on when I test drove it. Dealer put scanner on it and said it was gas cap. Bought the car, light on when I left. The light has bugged me for days because I didn't see the scanner codes myself. So today I have a friend use his scanner to see why the light is still on and it showed the P0016 and P0017 codes. I took a picture of the codes and I have done some checking. I have been discovered several possibilities. My question is, if I cleared these codes and the next time I drove the car within 10 minutes the light is on again am I looking at the worst case scenario of Mercedes balance shaft failure? I'm hoping to replace the cam sensors and be done with it. Unfortunately my VIN did fall in the area of concern for balance shaft failure.
Friday, January 22nd, 2021 AT 7:31 PM

6 Replies

Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
Unfortunately, I suspect you have either a timing issue or a possible variable timing solenoid issue. Here is a guide that talks about this system:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-camshaft-variable-valve-timing-works

Basically this could be caused by the incorrect oil or dirty oil. However, the fact that you have a code for both the intake and exhaust cam sensors on the same bank tells us that there is most likely something wrong with the timing.

If you just bought this vehicle, they normally have a 30 day warranty if you bought from a dealer or used car lot. Clearly a private party does not have this but you mentioned the dealer.

If this is the codes that are there, then this has nothing to do with the gas cap so I would take it back ASAP as this could be a large bill if this is timing related.

As for the sensors, I doubt that is the issue as it is unlikely that you have two failed sensors telling you the same thing. So again, the fact that you have two camshafts telling you they are too advanced or retarded tells us that we have a mechanical issue as the most likely cause.
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Saturday, January 23rd, 2021 AT 6:28 AM
Tiny
STIHLMAN75
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Thank you for your quick response. I will be taking it back to the dealer today. Also I forgot to say it is showing no other signs of an issue except for the check engine light being on. Car runs and drives fine. Starts good, no hesitation, sounds normal. Of course I have never owned or worked on a Mercedes before either.
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Saturday, January 23rd, 2021 AT 7:16 AM
Tiny
MARCUS CONNORS
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Okay, so I am STIHLMAN75 as well. Just so there's no confusion on the response. Sorry. I just don't want to damage the motor. It's my only transportation right now. If I drive it like this how bad is it gonna hurt the motor?
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Saturday, January 23rd, 2021 AT 7:49 AM
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
Okay. That is good news that there are no performance issue. That tells me it is most likely a wiring issue. That is good that you are taking it back because I am sure we could figure it out but the fact that you just bought it, you should be able to have it taken care of.

Just don't let them clear the codes and give it back. If they do, at least have them document that these codes were there and they will resolve them if they return.

Thanks for the update. Let us know what happens and feel free to reply from any account. Thanks for letting us know.
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Saturday, January 23rd, 2021 AT 5:46 PM
Tiny
MARCUS CONNORS
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thank you and I will keep you updated. I may very well be doing it myself. I love the car already and honestly I don't know if I want anyone else putting there hands in it. At least no one close by. I will probably be asking more questions as I progress. Thanks again. How do I respond to you specifically?
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Saturday, January 23rd, 2021 AT 5:52 PM
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
Sounds great. We are here if you need us. Thanks for the update.
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Sunday, January 24th, 2021 AT 3:07 PM

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