AutoCodes – GMC – P16A0 GMC

P16A0 GMC Code - Throttle Position Sensor Communication Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Throttle Body Assembly contains a contact-less inductive throttle position sensing element that is managed by a customized integrated circuit. Common causes include Faulty Throttle Body Assembly, Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted, Throttle Body Assembly 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: P16A0 GMC indicates Throttle Position Sensor Communication Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Throttle Body Assembly, Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted, Throttle Body Assembly 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 5,348

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 20, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P16A0 GMC Description

The Throttle Body Assembly contains a contact-less inductive throttle position sensing element that is managed by a customized integrated circuit. The throttle position sensor is mounted within the throttle body assembly and is not serviceable. The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies the throttle body with a 5 V reference circuit, a low reference circuit. The asynchronous signal means communication is only going from the throttle body to the ECM. The throttle body cannot receive data from the ECM over the signal/serial data circuit. The throttle position sensor provides a signal voltage that changes relative to throttle blade angle. The throttle position sensor information is transmitted between the throttle body and the ECM on the signal/serial data circuit. The ECM decodes the serial data signal and is used as voltages for throttle position sensor 1 and 2. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects a low voltage circuit condition on the throttle position sensor signal circuit for greater than 1 s.

OBDII Code P16A0 GMC - Throttle Position Sensor Communication Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P16A0 GMC Code - Throttle Position Sensor Communication Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P16A0 GMC?

Faulty Throttle Body Assembly
Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted
Throttle Body Assembly circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P16A0 GMC?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

User Submitted Video

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P16A0 GMC 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 P16A0 GMC code?

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Information for Specific GMC Models

P16A0 2014 GMC Sierra — Throttle Position Sensor Communication Circuit Low Voltage
P16A0 2015 GMC Sierra — Throttle Position Sensor Communication Circuit Low Voltage
P16A0 2016 GMC Sierra — Throttle Position Sensor Communication Circuit Low Voltage
P16A0 2017 GMC Sierra — Throttle Position Sensor Communication Circuit Low Voltage
P16A0 2018 GMC Sierra — Throttle Position Sensor Communication Circuit Low Voltage

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 P16A0 GMC Code

1. What does the OBDII code P16A0 mean on a GMC vehicle?

P16A0 indicates a problem with the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) communication circuit, specifically detecting low voltage.

2. What are the symptoms of a P16A0 code in a GMC vehicle?

Symptoms may include poor acceleration, reduced engine power, hesitation, or the activation of the "Check Engine" or "Reduced Power" warning lights.

3. What causes the P16A0 code to appear on a GMC vehicle?

Common causes include a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the TPS circuit, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

4. Can I drive my GMC vehicle with a P16A0 code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, it may experience reduced power or poor performance. Driving with this code for an extended period could worsen the issue or cause engine damage.

5. How do I diagnose the P16A0 code on my GMC vehicle?

Start by inspecting the TPS wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, then use a multimeter to test the voltage in the TPS circuit. You may also need a scan tool to check TPS signal values.

6. How can I fix a P16A0 code on my GMC vehicle?

Repairs may involve replacing the throttle position sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or reprogramming the ECM if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to fix a P16A0 code on a GMC vehicle?

Repair costs can vary but typically range from $100 to $400, depending on whether the issue is with the sensor, wiring, or ECM.

8. Can a dirty throttle body cause the P16A0 code?

A dirty or clogged throttle body is unlikely to directly trigger a P16A0 code, but it can lead to related TPS issues if it affects sensor readings.

9. Will clearing the P16A0 code solve the problem?

Clearing the code will turn off the warning light temporarily, but the underlying issue must be fixed to prevent the code from returning.

10. Is the P16A0 code specific to GMC vehicles?

The P16A0 code is not exclusive to GMC vehicles but is commonly associated with GM models. It relates to the TPS communication circuit in vehicles using similar systems.