AutoCodes – Mercury – U2016 Mercury

U2016 Mercury Code - Powertrain Control Module Short To Ground

Quick Answer

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors the signal from the Overhead Trip Computer (OTC) (Message Center). Common causes include Faulty Overhead Trip Computer (OTC) (Message Center), Overhead Trip Computer harness is open or shorted, Overhead Trip Computer 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: U2016 Mercury indicates Powertrain Control Module Short To Ground.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Overhead Trip Computer (OTC) (Message Center), Overhead Trip Computer harness is open or shorted, Overhead Trip Computer 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 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 Nov 23, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U2016 Mercury Description

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors the signal from the Overhead Trip Computer (OTC) (Message Center). The PCM sets the OBDII code when the signal from the Overhead Trip Computer (OTC) (Message Center) is short to ground.

OBDII Code U2016 Mercury - Powertrain Control Module Short To Ground - AutoCodes.com — U2016 Mercury Code - Powertrain Control Module Short To Ground

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U2016 Mercury?

Faulty Overhead Trip Computer (OTC) (Message Center)
Overhead Trip Computer harness is open or shorted
Overhead Trip Computer circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U2016 Mercury?

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 U2016 Mercury 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 U2016 Mercury code?

Need more information on how to fix the U2016 Mercury code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the U2016 Mercury code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 U2016 Mercury Code

1. What does the OBDII code U2016 mean on a Mercury vehicle?

The U2016 code indicates a "Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Short to Ground," meaning thereâ€™s an electrical fault in the PCM circuit.

2. What are the common symptoms of the U2016 code in a Mercury?

Symptoms may include engine misfires, poor performance, difficulty starting, a check engine light, or intermittent electrical issues.

3. What causes the U2016 code to appear?

This code is typically caused by damaged wiring, a shorted PCM ground circuit, corroded connectors, or a faulty PCM.

4. Can I drive my Mercury with the U2016 code?

Itâ€™s not recommended to drive with this code, as it can lead to further damage to the PCM or affect engine performance.

5. How do I diagnose the U2016 code?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors around the PCM for damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to check for continuity and shorts in the circuit.

6. Do I need to replace the PCM if I get a U2016 code?

Not always. First, rule out wiring and connector issues. If the PCM itself is confirmed to be faulty, then replacement may be necessary.

7. How much does it cost to repair the U2016 code?

Repair costs vary, but fixing wiring or connectors may cost $100â€“$300, while PCM replacement can be $500â€“$1,000 or more, including labor.

8. Can a bad ground connection outside the PCM cause the U2016 code?

Yes, a poor or corroded ground connection elsewhere in the electrical system can sometimes trigger this code.

9. Will clearing the U2016 code fix the problem?

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

10. Should I seek professional help for a U2016 code?

If youâ€™re not comfortable diagnosing and repairing electrical issues, itâ€™s best to consult a professional mechanic with experience in PCM diagnostics.