AutoCodes – Generic – C161E

C161E Code - Electric Pump Relay Circuit System Stuck

Quick Answer

The All Wheel Control (AWC) ECU controls the electric pump by the information from AWC pressure sensor and electric pump relay. Common causes include Faulty Electric Pump Relay, Electric Pump Relay harness is open or shorted, Electric Pump Relay circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
C161E indicates Electric Pump Relay Circuit System Stuck.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Electric Pump Relay, Electric Pump Relay harness is open or shorted, Electric Pump Relay circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 2,604
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Nov 15, 2020
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Code C161E Description

The All Wheel Control (AWC) ECU controls the electric pump by the information from AWC pressure sensor and electric pump relay. The code is set when the electric pump operation signal is output from AWC-ECU, and when the AWC pressure sensor signal is not reached the specified pressure after the specified time has elapsed.
OBDII Code C161E - Electric Pump Relay Circuit System Stuck - AutoCodes.com
C161E Code - Electric Pump Relay Circuit System Stuck

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C161E?

  • Faulty Electric Pump Relay
  • Electric Pump Relay harness is open or shorted
  • Electric Pump Relay circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty All Wheel Control (AWC) ECU
  • Faulty Electric Pump

How to Fix the DTC C161E?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the C161E code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the C161E code?

Need more information on how to fix the C161E code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C161E code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about C161E Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C161E (Electric Pump Relay Circuit System Stuck)?

- Common symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle, intermittent or constant illuminated check engine light, and issues with the fuel pump operation.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C161E?

- The code C161E can be triggered by issues such as a faulty electric pump relay, damaged wiring or connectors in the relay circuit, or a malfunctioning fuel pump.

3. How can I diagnose the source of OBDII code C161E?

- Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool to retrieve the code, inspecting the electric pump relay and related components, testing the relay circuit for continuity, and checking the fuel pump's functionality.

4. What are some repair tips for addressing OBDII code C161E?

- Repair options may include replacing the electric pump relay, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, and testing or replacing the fuel pump if necessary.

5. Can OBDII code C161E cause any serious damage to the vehicle?

- While the code itself may not directly cause immediate serious damage, ignoring it can lead to potential issues with fuel delivery, engine performance, and overall vehicle reliability.

6. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code C161E present?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the code C161E active, as it can affect the proper operation of the fuel system and potentially lead to stalling or other drivability issues.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code C161E?

- The cost of repairs for code C161E can vary depending on the underlying cause, but it may range from a relatively inexpensive relay replacement to a more involved repair involving the fuel pump.

8. Can OBDII code C161E be reset without fixing the underlying issue?

- While the code can be cleared using a scan tool, it is crucial to address the underlying issue causing code C161E to prevent it from reoccurring and to ensure the proper functioning of the vehicle.

9. Are there any preventative measures to avoid OBDII code C161E in the future?

- Regular maintenance, such as checking and replacing the fuel pump relay as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, can help prevent issues that may trigger code C161E.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code C161E?

- The repair time for code C161E can vary based on the specific cause and complexity of the repair, but it may range from a quick relay replacement that can be done in minutes to a more involved repair that may take several hours.

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