AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P116A Chevrolet

P116A Chevrolet Code - O2 Signal Circuit (NOx Sensor 1)

Quick Answer

The Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) sensors are part of the selective catalytic reduction system, a device used to reduce NOx emission on diesel engines. Common causes include Faulty Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Sensor, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor harness is open or shorted, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor 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: P116A Chevrolet indicates O2 Signal Circuit (NOx Sensor 1).
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Sensor, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor harness is open or shorted, Nitrogen Oxides Sensor 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.

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Code Popularity 1,040

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 29, 2024

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P116A Chevrolet Description

The Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) sensors are part of the selective catalytic reduction system, a device used to reduce NOx emission on diesel engines. There are two NOx sensors, one placed upstream of selective catalytic reduction, to measure inlet NOx concentration, and one placed downstream. They are connected with the control module via CAN and all the information is exchanged through it. Since it is a smart sensor, all the electrical monitoring is performed inside the sensor and only the results are sent to the Engine Control Module (ECM). Each NOx sensor contains a sensing cell, a pumping cell, and a heater. A sample of exhaust gas passes through a diffusion gap between the sensing cell and the pumping cell. The NOx sensor maintains a constant reference voltage across the sensing cell. An electronic circuit within sensor controls the pump current through the pumping cell in order to maintain a constant voltage in the sensing cell. The amount of current required to maintain the reference voltage in the sensing cell is proportional to the concentration of NOx in the exhaust. The ECM varies the amount of diesel exhaust fluid (reductant) added by varying the reductant injector duty cycle in response to changes in engine exhaust NOx levels. The smart NOx sensors consist of two components, the NOx module and the NOx sensor element that are serviced as a unit. A circuit or performance condition with a NOx sensor is detected by the NOx sensor module. The smart NOx sensor module communicates the condition to the ECM over the serial data line. The ECM sets a DTC when a serial data message is received from the NOx sensor module. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set if the ECM software detects a fault in the NOx sensor circuitry or a performance fault in the NOx sensor for greater than 2 s.

OBDII Code P116A Chevrolet - O2 Signal Circuit (NOx Sensor 1) - AutoCodes.com — P116A Chevrolet Code - O2 Signal Circuit (NOx Sensor 1)

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P116A Chevrolet?

Faulty Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Sensor
Nitrogen Oxides Sensor harness is open or shorted
Nitrogen Oxides Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P116A Chevrolet?

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 P116A Chevrolet 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 P116A Chevrolet code?

Need more information on how to fix the P116A Chevrolet code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Chevrolet Models

P116A 2014 Chevrolet Silverado — O2 Signal Circuit (NOx Sensor 1)
P116A 2015 Chevrolet Silverado — O2 Signal Circuit (NOx Sensor 1)
P116A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado — O2 Signal Circuit (NOx Sensor 1)
P116A 2017 Chevrolet Silverado — O2 Signal Circuit (NOx Sensor 1)
P116A 2018 Chevrolet Silverado — O2 Signal Circuit (NOx Sensor 1)

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 P116A Chevrolet Code

1. What are some common symptoms of OBDII code P116A in a Chevrolet vehicle?

- Common symptoms include reduced engine performance, poor fuel efficiency, and the illumination of the check engine light.

2. What is the likely cause of OBDII code P116A in a Chevrolet, specifically related to the O2 signal circuit (NOx Sensor 1)?

- The likely cause is a malfunction in the O2 signal circuit of the NOx Sensor 1, which can be due to wiring issues, sensor failure, or a faulty connection.

3. Can driving with OBDII code P116A in a Chevrolet cause further damage to the vehicle?

- Continuing to drive with this code may lead to increased emissions, potential damage to the catalytic converter, and ultimately affect the overall performance of the vehicle.

4. How can I diagnose and repair OBDII code P116A in a Chevrolet related to the O2 signal circuit?

- Diagnosis involves checking the wiring, connectors, and the NOx Sensor 1 itself for any visible damage or faults. Repair may involve replacing the sensor, repairing wiring issues, or fixing faulty connections.

5. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code P116A in a Chevrolet if the vehicle seems to be running fine?

- While driving with this code may not immediately cause the vehicle to break down, it is recommended to address the issue promptly to prevent potential long-term damage and ensure optimal performance.

6. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P116A in a Chevrolet related to the O2 signal circuit?

- Depending on their skill level, a DIY enthusiast may be able to diagnose and repair this code by following a repair manual or using diagnostic tools. However, professional assistance is recommended for more complex issues.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P116A in a Chevrolet at a mechanic or dealership?

- The cost of repairing this code can vary based on the specific issue, parts needed, and labor rates. It is advisable to get multiple quotes from different repair shops to compare prices.

8. Can a faulty O2 signal circuit (NOx Sensor 1) cause other OBDII codes to appear in a Chevrolet?

- Yes, a malfunctioning O2 signal circuit can sometimes trigger related codes such as P116B, P116C, or other O2 sensor-related codes in the vehicle's system.

9. How often should the O2 signal circuit (NOx Sensor 1) be inspected or replaced in a Chevrolet to prevent OBDII code P116A from recurring?

- Routine maintenance schedules may vary, but it is generally recommended to inspect and replace the NOx sensor or its components as per the manufacturer's guidelines or if any issues arise.

10. Are there any specific driving conditions or habits that can contribute to the occurrence of OBDII code P116A in a Chevrolet?

- Driving in stop-and-go traffic, using poor-quality fuel, or neglecting regular maintenance can potentially contribute to the occurrence of this OBDII code due to increased stress on the emissions system.