AutoCodes – GMC – P16A1 2017 GMC Sierra

P16A1 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Throttle Position Sensor Communication Circuit High 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: P16A1 2017 GMC Sierra indicates Throttle Position Sensor Communication Circuit High 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 797

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 May 20, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P16A1 2017 GMC Sierra 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 high voltage circuit condition on the throttle position sensor signal circuit for greater than 1 s.

OBDII Code P16A1 2017 GMC Sierra - Throttle Position Sensor Communication Circuit High Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P16A1 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Throttle Position Sensor Communication Circuit High Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P16A1 2017 GMC Sierra?

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 P16A1 2017 GMC Sierra?

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 P16A1 2017 GMC Sierra 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 P16A1 2017 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P16A1 mean on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

P16A1 indicates a high voltage issue in the throttle position sensor (TPS) communication circuit, which monitors the throttle position for proper engine performance.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P16A1 on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include reduced engine performance, poor throttle response, the check engine light illuminating, and the vehicle entering "limp mode."

3. What causes the P16A1 code to appear on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

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 2017 GMC Sierra with a P16A1 code?

While the truck may still be drivable, it could experience reduced performance or enter limp mode. Driving with this code for extended periods is not recommended as it may lead to further damage.

5. How do I diagnose a P16A1 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the TPS wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to test the circuit's voltage and continuity, and check the throttle position sensor for proper operation.

6. How do I fix the P16A1 code on my 2017 GMC Sierra?

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

7. How much does it cost to fix a P16A1 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs can vary. Replacing the throttle position sensor typically costs $100â€“$300, while ECM repairs or replacements may cost $500â€“$1,200.

8. Can a dirty throttle body cause the P16A1 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

A dirty throttle body is unlikely to cause this specific code, but it can affect throttle performance. Cleaning the throttle body is a good maintenance step while diagnosing the issue.

9. Does a P16A1 code always mean the throttle position sensor is bad?

No, the issue could also stem from wiring problems, connector issues, or a malfunctioning ECM. Proper diagnosis is essential to identify the root cause.

10. Will clearing the P16A1 code fix the issue on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Clearing the code may turn off the check engine light temporarily, but if the underlying problem isnâ€™t resolved, the code will likely return.