AutoCodes – Buick – P116E Buick

P116E Buick Code - O2 Pump Current Control Circuit Low Voltage (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: P116E Buick indicates O2 Pump Current Control Circuit Low Voltage (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 300

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 P116E Buick 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 P116E Buick - O2 Pump Current Control Circuit Low Voltage (NOx Sensor 1) - AutoCodes.com — P116E Buick Code - O2 Pump Current Control Circuit Low Voltage (NOx Sensor 1)

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P116E Buick?

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 P116E Buick?

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 P116E Buick 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.

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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 P116E Buick Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P116E in a Buick related to the O2 Pump Current Control Circuit Low Voltage (NOx Sensor 1)?

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

2. What are some possible causes of OBDII code P116E in a Buick?

- Possible causes may include a faulty NOx sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the O2 pump current control circuit, or issues with the vehicle's engine control module.

3. How can I diagnose OBDII code P116E in my Buick?

- Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the fault code, inspecting the NOx sensor and related wiring for damage, and testing the O2 pump current control circuit for proper voltage.

4. What are the repair options for OBDII code P116E in a Buick?

- Repair options may include replacing the faulty NOx sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming the engine control module if necessary.

5. Can I drive my Buick with OBDII code P116E present?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with this fault code present, as it can lead to further engine damage and potentially worsen fuel efficiency.

6. Will resetting the check engine light resolve OBDII code P116E in a Buick?

- Resetting the check engine light may temporarily turn it off, but the underlying issue causing the fault code will still need to be diagnosed and repaired to prevent it from reoccurring.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P116E in a Buick?

- The cost of repairs for this code can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P116E in a Buick?

- While some experienced DIY enthusiasts may be able to diagnose and repair this issue themselves, it is recommended to seek professional help, especially when dealing with complex electrical systems like the O2 pump current control circuit.

9. How long does it take to repair OBDII code P116E in a Buick?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the fault, availability of parts, and the skill level of the mechanic. It may take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to complete the repair.

10. Is OBDII code P116E a common issue in Buick vehicles?

- While it may not be as common as some other OBDII codes, P116E related to the O2 Pump Current Control Circuit Low Voltage (NOx Sensor 1) can still occur in Buick vehicles, especially as they age and components wear out.