P0216 OBD-II Trouble Code: Injection Timing Control Circuit Malfunction

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Cost of diagnosing the P0216 code

P0216 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Injection Timing Control Circuit Malfunction". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.

Cars Estimate* Credit towards follow-up repair Earliest Availability
Ford $154.99 $50.0
Toyota $154.99 $50.0
BMW $164.99 $50.0

*Estimates may vary by market

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P0216 code definition

Injection timing control circuit malfunction

What the P0215 code means

The P0215 code means that the vehicle’s powertrain control module has detected a fault in the fuel injection timing control system.

The powertrain control module takes an input from multiple sensors in order to adjust the fuel amount, fuel trim, and fuel timing. The sensors that have an effect on the fuel injection timing would be the camshaft position sensor and the crankshaft position sensor, since these sensor inputs are also taken into consideration for regular engine timing as well.

What are the causes of the P0216 code?

  • A faulty camshaft position sensor
  • A faulty crankshaft position sensor
  • A faulty powertrain control module
  • Damaged wiring associated with the fuel injection control circuit.

What are the symptoms of the P0216 code?

The P0216 code may have many of the same symptoms of a code that suggests the vehicle has a crankshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensor issue. These symptoms would include:

  • Lack of power
  • Hesitation upon acceleration
  • Vehicle will not start
  • Engine may have rough idle
  • Vehicle may not be able to exceed a certain speed i.e. 30 m.p.h.
  • No symptoms at all

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0216 code?

A mechanic diagnoses the P0216 code by using service information to locate the crankshaft position sensor and the camshaft position sensor(s) on the engine being diagnosed.

Once these sensors are located, the mechanic would inspect them and their wiring for any damages that may exist. If any damages are found during this inspection, the mechanic would likely replace whichever sensor was damaged or repair the wiring that is associated with it.

If no issues were found during this inspection, the mechanic would then use a high tech scan tool to run data on the engine while it is running. The mechanic would notice any changes to the fuel input and timing on the scan tool. After verifying that the fuel injection timing is indeed incorrect and also confirming that the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors are operational, the mechanic may then replace the powertrain control module.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0216 code?

Novice mechanics may assume that the powertrain control module has failed due to the fact that is is responsible for controlling the fuel injection timing. These mechanics do not take into consideration that the powertrain control module is able to carry out this action due to the input it receives from engine sensors such as the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors. It is always recommended to consult service information when diagnosing a Check Engine Light code.

How serious is the P0216 code?

The P0216 code can range on the severity scale. If the vehicle has no negative symptoms, the driver may decide the issue is not that serious and hold off on the repair for a short time. If the driver is experiencing any drivability issues due to this code being stored, he or she may decide to get the problem diagnosed and repaired immediately. How serious this code is all depends on the symptoms associated with it.

What repairs can fix the P0216 code?

Additional comments regarding the P0216 code?

This code may be accompanied by other codes related to the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors. It is important to repair or correct all other issues before coming to this code as this code may have been set due to another code being set. In some instances, more than one code will apply to the same circumstance so the powertrain control module will store multiple codes. It is important to take all aspects of the situation into consideration when diagnosing this issue.

Need help with a P0216 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.

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Ford Escort L4-2.0L - Check Engine Light is on - Nashville, Tennessee
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Lexus IS250 V6-2.5L - Check Engine Light is on - Mableton, Georgia
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40 years of experience
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Plymouth Grand Voyager - Check Engine Light is on - Lawrenceville, Georgia
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Ford Fiesta L4-1.6L - Check Engine Light is on - Smyrna, Georgia
Chris communicated with us each step of the way up until his arrival. He listened well, was knowledgeable, and was prepared. He took the time to diagnose the problem, explained the what, why and how and provided a solution. I would definitely recommend him and will use him again.


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