AutoCodes – Generic – P1616

P1616 Code - Engine Control Relay Circuit Malfunction

Quick Answer

P1616 indicates Engine Control Relay Circuit Malfunction. Common causes include Faulty Engine Control Relay, Engine Control Relay harness is open or shorted, Engine Control 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: P1616 indicates Engine Control Relay Circuit Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Engine Control Relay, Engine Control Relay harness is open or shorted, Engine Control 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.

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Code Popularity 36,686

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 Sep 01, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1616 Description

OBDII Code P1616 - Engine Control Relay Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — P1616 Code - Engine Control Relay Circuit Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1616?

Faulty Engine Control Relay
Engine Control Relay harness is open or shorted
Engine Control Relay circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1616?

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 P1616 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 P1616 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1616 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P1616 Audi — Glow Plug Warning Lamp Short To Positive
P1616 Hyundai — Engine Control Relay Circuit Malfunction
P1616 KIA — Engine Control Relay Circuit Malfunction
P1616 Volkswagen — Glow Plug Warning Lamp Short To Positive

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.