AutoCodes – Generic – P1A16

P1A16 Code - Variable Voltage Controller Voltage Control Circuit

Quick Answer

The Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) monitors the Variable Voltage Controller Voltage. Common causes include Faulty Inverter, Faulty Variable Voltage Controller, Variable Voltage Controller harness is open or shorted. 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: P1A16 indicates Variable Voltage Controller Voltage Control Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Inverter, Faulty Variable Voltage Controller, Variable Voltage Controller harness is open or shorted.
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 4,524

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 Aug 13, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1A16 Description

The Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) monitors the Variable Voltage Controller Voltage. This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) indicates a Variable Voltage Controller or traction battery malfunction.

OBDII Code P1A16 - Variable Voltage Controller Voltage Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P1A16 Code - Variable Voltage Controller Voltage Control Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1A16?

Faulty Inverter
Faulty Variable Voltage Controller
Variable Voltage Controller harness is open or shorted
Variable Voltage Controller circuit poor electrical connection
High voltage traction battery malfunction

How to Fix the DTC P1A16?

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 P1A16 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 P1A16 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1A16 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1A16 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P1A16 Ford — Variable Voltage Controller Voltage Control Circuit
P1A16 Lincoln — Variable Voltage Controller Voltage Control Circuit
P1A16 Mercury — Variable Voltage Controller Voltage Control Circuit

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 P1A16 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1A16 (Variable Voltage Controller Voltage Control Circuit)?

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

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1A16?

- The code P1A16 can be triggered by issues such as a faulty variable voltage controller, damaged wiring or connectors, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM).

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P1A16?

- To diagnose the cause of OBDII code P1A16, it is recommended to use an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault codes, inspect the wiring and connectors for any visible damage, and test the variable voltage controller for proper functionality.

4. Can I continue driving my vehicle with OBDII code P1A16?

- It is not recommended to continue driving your vehicle with OBDII code P1A16 as it can lead to further damage to the engine components and negatively impact the vehicle's performance.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P1A16?

- Repairing OBDII code P1A16 involves replacing the faulty variable voltage controller, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and clearing the fault codes with an OBDII scanner.

6. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P1A16 without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can clear the fault codes temporarily, the check engine light is likely to illuminate again if the underlying issue causing OBDII code P1A16 is not addressed.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P1A16 at home?

- Depending on your mechanical skills and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to fix OBDII code P1A16 at home by following repair guides and using the necessary diagnostic equipment.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1A16 at a professional auto repair shop?

- The cost of repairing OBDII code P1A16 at a professional auto repair shop can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the labor rates, but it may range from $200 to $500 or more.

9. Can extreme weather conditions trigger OBDII code P1A16?

- Extreme weather conditions are not a common cause of OBDII code P1A16. However, temperature fluctuations can sometimes affect electrical components and lead to issues with the variable voltage controller.

10. How long does it take to repair OBDII code P1A16?

- The time required to repair OBDII code P1A16 can vary based on the extent of the damage and the availability of replacement parts, but it typically takes a few hours to a day at the auto repair shop.