P1016 - Reductant Control Module Sensor Serial Communication Circuit High Voltage
OBD2 Error Codes

P1016 - Reductant Control Module Sensor Serial Communication Circuit High Voltage

23.11.2023 /

P1016 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Reductant Control Module Sensor Serial Communication Circuit High Voltage

What does the fault code mean P1016?

The reducing agent quality sensor is located in the reducing agent reservoir and uses an ultrasonic signal to evaluate the quality of the reducing agent. This sensor also has a built-in temperature sensor to measure the temperature of the reducing agent. It communicates with the reducing agent control module via serial data. If a malfunction is detected that results in high voltage in the signal circuit for more than 1 second, a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is generated.

Possible reasons

Possible causes of DTC P1016 include, but are not limited to:

  1. Faulty reducing agent control module: Faults in the reductant control module itself can cause code P1016 to appear. This may include faults in electronic components or other elements of the module.
  2. Problems with the reducing agent control module wiring: Open or shorted wires in the harness connecting the reductant control module can cause signal circuit instability and generate a trouble code.
  3. Insufficient electrical connection in the reducing agent control module circuit: Poor electrical contacts or insufficient connections in the reducer control module circuit can cause communication failures, causing a P1016 code.
  4. Faulty reducing agent quality sensor: If the reducing agent quality sensor itself is not functioning correctly, this can result in incorrect data being sent to the control module and causing an error.

It is important to note that these causes only represent a portion of the possible factors, and other problems may also be the source of DTC P1016. It is recommended to carry out a thorough diagnosis under the guidance of a professional to accurately identify and eliminate the cause of the malfunction.

What are the symptoms of a fault code? P1016?

Engine light is on (or engine service soon light)

How to diagnose a fault code P1016?

Diagnosing the P1016 trouble code involves several steps to identify and resolve the problem. Here are general recommendations for diagnostics:

  1. Scan DTCs: Use an OBD-II scanner to read trouble codes, including P1016. Write down any additional codes that may appear to get a better idea of ​​the system's status.
  2. Checking wires and electrical connections: Inspect the wiring harness connecting the reducing agent control module and the reducing agent quality sensor. Check for open, broken or shorted wires. Also pay attention to the quality of electrical connections.
  3. Voltage check: Measure the voltage on the reducing agent control module circuit, making sure it is within the normal range. Low voltage may be a sign of a problem.
  4. Checking the reducing agent control module: Perform additional diagnostics to identify problems with the reductant control module. This may include the use of professional equipment to test electronic components.
  5. Checking the reducing agent quality sensor: Check the condition and functionality of the reducing agent quality sensor. Make sure it provides correct data on the quality of the reducing agent.
  6. Checking the recovery system: Assess the overall condition of the reduction system, including the level of reducing agent in the reservoir. Make sure the system is working correctly.
  7. Professional diagnostics: If the cause of the malfunction is not obvious or specialized equipment is required, contact a professional auto repair shop for further diagnosis and repair.

It is important to note that the exact diagnostic steps may vary depending on the specific model and make of the vehicle. If you are unsure or lack experience, it is recommended that you seek help from a qualified auto mechanic.

Diagnostic errors

When diagnosing the P1016 trouble code, a variety of errors may occur, including:

  1. Skip wire check: Failure to visually inspect and thoroughly check wires may result in missing open, broken or shorted wires.
  2. Insufficient checking of electrical connections: Problems with electrical connections, such as oxidation or unstable contacts, may be missed by a superficial inspection.
  3. OBD-II scanner malfunction: Using a faulty or low-quality OBD-II scanner may result in incorrect reading of trouble codes or incorrect information.
  4. Ignoring additional codes: If there are additional DTCs that may be associated with P1016, ignoring them may result in important diagnostic details being missed.
  5. Incorrect interpretation of sensor data: Incorrect interpretation of the data coming from the reducing agent quality sensor can lead to incorrect diagnosis.
  6. Skip Reductant Control Module Test: Failure to test the remanufacturer control module may result in problems with its electronic components being missed.
  7. Insufficient check of the reducing agent quality sensor: Ignoring the condition and performance of the reducing agent quality sensor can lead to incorrect diagnosis and replacement of unnecessary components.
  8. Incorrect interpretation of data from the reducing agent control module: Incorrect understanding of the data coming from the reductant control module may lead to incorrect identification of the problem.

To avoid these errors, it is recommended to carry out diagnostics using a high-quality scanner, carefully inspect the wires and electrical connections, and also pay attention to additional fault codes and the entire system as a whole. In case of doubt or uncertainty, it is better to seek help from an experienced auto mechanic.

How serious is the fault code? P1016?

Trouble code P1016 indicates a problem with the reductant control module sensor serial communication circuit. Depending on how the remanufacturer system affects your vehicle's performance, the severity of this problem may vary.

For example, if the reductant system affects engine efficiency or the vehicle's environmental performance, then a problem with the serial communication circuit could affect performance and emissions.

It is also important to note that the P1016 code can be related to other trouble codes, and the combination of the two may provide a clearer picture of the problem. It is recommended to carry out diagnostics as soon as possible to determine and eliminate the root of the problem.

In any case, it is recommended to contact car service professionals for a more accurate diagnosis and solution to the problem. They will be able to determine how serious the problem is for your vehicle's performance.

What repair will help eliminate the code? P1016?

Resolving DTC P1016 may require a number of actions depending on the identified causes. Below are possible repair steps:

  1. Checking the serial communication circuit: The first step is to thoroughly check the reductant control module sensor communication circuit. This includes inspecting wires, connections, and checking for shorts or opens.
  2. Checking the reducing agent control module: Check the condition and functionality of the reducing agent control module. If a malfunction is detected, it may need to be replaced or repaired.
  3. Checking the reducing agent quality sensor: The reducing agent quality sensor may also be susceptible to malfunction. Check it for correct operation and replace if necessary.
  4. Checking electrical connections: Make sure the electrical connections are correct, especially in the vicinity of the sensor and the reducing agent control module. Clean the contacts from oxides or dirt.
  5. Checking the voltage level: Verify that the voltage on the signal circuit is within manufacturer's specifications. Low voltage can cause code P1016 to appear.
  6. Software update: In some cases, the problem may be software related. Check if a firmware update is available for the remanufacturer control module and perform it if necessary.
  7. Additional diagnostics: If the problem is not resolved after following the above steps, it is recommended to conduct a more in-depth diagnosis using professional equipment and contact an experienced auto mechanic.

Consult your specific vehicle's repair manual for more detailed instructions and recommendations for troubleshooting the P1016 code.

DTC Ford P1016 Short Explanation

P1016 – Brand-specific information

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