Code P0016, bank 1 sensor A?

Hello, there are a few things that can cause this code, Ill post some service info for you. But the ECM is seeing the intake camshaft is advanced more than 9 degrees when it shouldn't be. So, something like an intake cam actuator solenoid that is sticking on, or there could be a broken pin that holds the cam actuator, and the camshaft gear is jumping back and forth, possibly getting stuck in an advanced position sometimes. But Ill post some more info on these type codes for you.
Do you have your own scan tool that can read live engine data?
And how often do you change your oil? You could actually pull out the cam actuator solenoid and check to see if its screen has any build up or oil gunk stuck in it.

You are due for a timing chain/belt service, but just start saving up for that, I think this is more of the solenoid sticking, because it's happening intermittently, if you had loose a timing due to broken chain guides or chain tensioner you would most likely have a code for the exhaust camshaft as well, plus there are other timing codes that can come up. I'll take a look at the setup you have and look up the oil type, synthetic oil is best to run, but costs more. The actuator solenoids have small screens in them that are for filtering the oil entering the solenoid so they don't get stuck, but these solenoids do wear out like everything else, So I wouldn't over worry right now, have them look at it. They will check the wiring to the solenoid as well. I'll post some info here for you shortly on the oil. Loose timing chains will cause all kinds of symptoms, cylinder misfire codes, rough running, etc.

This is the recommended oil specs from the manufacturer. They do call for a synthetic oil. It will decrease the wear on the internal engine components. It's better to use it since you're starting to get higher mileage on the vehicle and you want it to last as long as possible. And it will if the oil and filter are changed at regular intervals.

Thats good news, if the code comes back, you should just replace the solenoid, I can walk you through replacing it, so you don't have to pay for any labor charges. It's really easy to change. Just unplug the electrical connector, and take out 2 bolts, put the new solenoid in and bolt it back up. So just let us know what happens and keep the oil changed.

Oh okay, if they replaced it then you should be good, but yes it would be wise to save up for a timing kit and labor. This vehicle has a main timing chain, and a smaller timing chain that goes from the balance shaft to the crankshaft and it is behind the main chain. The book time for replacing the main chain is about 7 hours, the OEM price listed for just the chain itself is about $74, but that it the what a shop would pay for it, they will mark that price up, but they will do a complete timing chain kit, which should come with both chains, the chain guides for each side, and the timing chain tensioner. They will need to reseal the timing cover on the front of the engine. It would also be a good idea to do the water pump while they have it apart. So, if you want to get an estimate now, you will know how much you need to save up for the job when the time comes.
This is a diagram of the timing chain components with the front engine cover off, just to give you an idea of what it looks like.

It's not actually that bad compared to some other setups, there are some models that have 2 camshafts per cylinder head, something like a V6 or V8 and then have a small chain for each pair of camshafts, and then another chain on top of those, etc. Some are real nightmares, but you're ahead of the game using synthetic oil and keeping up with the filter and oil changes. Let us know if you need any other help in the future.

He suspects? Thats not a diagnosis though. There are a number of tests that can be done to know what the problem is. What if it's just a bad camshaft position sensor? The tests that can be done are checking the "Desired" position vs the "Actual" position of the Intake camshaft position. They can use an oscilloscope and visually see the position of the intake cam. A bad phaser will show up on a scope. Even taking off the valve cover, they would be able to move the phaser if it's broken and not in its locked position. I would hate to see them replace $1,500 in parts just to find out it's only a sensor. Or wiring to the sensor or solenoid. Thats a lot of money for them to be guessing. Sorry I just don't like to see situations like this.

Yeah, make sure they do the proper testing. Unless you're prepared for the timing chain job. They should be able to show you proof that the camshaft phaser is really the issue.

Good to hear you got it taken care of. You won't have to worry about chain issues in the future now. They make all those chain guides out of plastic, and they all end up breaking at some point.