AutoCodes – GMC – P16FF 2016 GMC Sierra

P16FF 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Engine Controls Ignition Relay Request Signal Message Counter Incorrect

Quick Answer

Control modules connected to the serial data circuits monitor the communication during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Engine Controls Ignition Relay, Engine Controls Ignition Relay harness is open or shorted, Engine Controls Ignition 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: P16FF 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Engine Controls Ignition Relay Request Signal Message Counter Incorrect.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Engine Controls Ignition Relay, Engine Controls Ignition Relay harness is open or shorted, Engine Controls Ignition 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 157

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 29, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P16FF 2016 GMC Sierra Description

Control modules connected to the serial data circuits monitor the communication during normal vehicle operation. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the control modules. Each module on the serial data circuit maintains a transmit error counter and a receive error counter. The counter values increase with detected errors and decrease with error-free messages. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the Engine Controls Ignition Relay Request Signal Message Counter Incorrect.

OBDII Code P16FF 2016 GMC Sierra - Engine Controls Ignition Relay Request Signal Message Counter Incorrect - AutoCodes.com — P16FF 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Engine Controls Ignition Relay Request Signal Message Counter Incorrect

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P16FF 2016 GMC Sierra?

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

How to Fix the DTC P16FF 2016 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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P16FF 2016 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.

Need more information about the P16FF 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P16FF 2016 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 P16FF 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P16FF mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The P16FF code indicates an issue where the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects an incorrect signal or message counter related to the ignition relay request signal.

2. What are the symptoms of code P16FF in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include difficulty starting the engine, intermittent stalling, a check engine light, and possible reduced engine performance.

3. What causes the P16FF code to appear on a GMC Sierra?

This code is typically caused by a faulty ignition relay, wiring or connector issues in the ignition relay circuit, a malfunctioning ECM, or an intermittent electrical fault.

4. Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with the P16FF code?

It is not recommended to drive with this code active, as it could lead to unreliable engine performance or cause the vehicle to stall unexpectedly.

5. How do I diagnose the P16FF code on my GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the ignition relay and its wiring for damage or corrosion. Use a scan tool to check for additional codes and monitor live data from the ignition relay circuit.

6. How is the P16FF code typically fixed on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing a faulty ignition relay, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or, in rare cases, reprogramming or replacing the ECM.

7. Can a weak battery cause the P16FF code to trigger?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can cause voltage irregularities, which might lead to communication errors and trigger the P16FF code.

8. How much does it cost to fix the P16FF code on a GMC Sierra?

The cost can vary widely depending on the root cause but typically ranges from $100 to $300 for parts and labor, depending on whether the ignition relay or wiring needs repair.

9. Will clearing the P16FF code with a scan tool fix the problem?

Clearing the code will only temporarily remove it. If the underlying issue is not resolved, the code will return.

10. Is the P16FF code a common issue on GMC Sierra trucks?

While not extremely common, this code can occur, particularly in vehicles with aging electrical components or in regions with harsh environmental conditions.