Among several engine codes that can be seen in Chevrolet vehicles, the P1516 code chevy is one of the majors. It indicates a problem with the throttle control actuator generally known as TAC.
The throttle valve is a very important engine part. It determines the amount of air that is sucked inside the engine combustion chamber. There is also a sensor to maintain communication within the throttle body.
If any of these parts get damaged or face any malfunction, the P1516 code can appear. There are some symptoms that indicate this problem. The good news is, that there are several ways to fix this issue too.
What Does P1516 Code Mean On chevy?
I’ve already mentioned that the P1516 code indicates a problem within the throttle actuator control or TAC system.
The throttle valve is normally situated between the air intake filter and the intake manifold. The filtered air is passed through this valve. It regulates the amount of air that is going to enter the chamber.
If the throttle body itself or the throttle position sensor faces any issue, it will hamper the engine performance. Then you will see the P1516 code while scanning. So basically, P1516 is a code related to the throttle system of the engine of Chevy.
How serious is the P1516 code on chevy?
Well, that’s not a simple thing to answer. Now you know the function of a throttle control actuator, you can easily understand how it can affect your vehicle.
If it gets damaged, the proper amount of air won’t enter for combustion. As a result, complete combustion can not occur. This will result in excess noise generation.
If this situation continues, the engine piston can be permanently damaged. Other parts can also be hampered. The problem will instantly decrease engine performance.
What are the symptoms of P1516 on chevy?
To identify whether there are any possibilities that the P1516 code can appear, you need to have certain ideas. By observing some specific indications, you can easily discover the issues related to the P1516 code.
Check engine light:
This light indicates problems related to the engine itself. If there is any problem with the throttle valve or TAC, it will directly affect the engine performance. So, the check engine light can be turned on as a warning that the engine is not in optimum condition.
Throttle does not respond:
It’s really normal, that if the throttle gets damaged, it won’t work. For some vehicles, users claim that they are unable to increase the speed by more than 30 kmph. No matter how much you try, throttle or acceleration will not work if the vehicle has a P1516 code issue.
The Causing Factors Of The Error Code P1516
There are several reasons that may cause this P1516 code in Chevy vehicles. Here I’m discussing the most common and important reasons, which will help you understand this issue better.
Bad throttle actuator control:
The throttle control actuator (TAC) indicates whether the proper amount of air is passing by or not. If it gets damaged, this will cause the P1516 code to appear.
Short circuit:
Sometimes, the wirings that supply electricity to the electrical throttle system may get disconnected. Or any short circuit problem can occur. This will also result in the P1516 code.
Poor electrical connection:
If the proper amount of electricity is not maintained, this may also cause an issue.
Sensor displacement:
In some situations, the throttle position sensor can be displaced. Then, it won’t be capable to provide necessary data to the control system. And eventually, this will result in the code appearing.
How do I fix my chevy P1516 code?
Fixing the issue related to the P1516 code chevy is not that hard. Rather, by following some easy steps, you can fix it all on your own. But to ensure a proper repair, there is no alternative to going to a professional.
To fix the issue, try any of the followings:
Reset throttle position sensor:
To reset the sensor, all you need to do is to disconnect the negative cable for up to five minutes. Then re-connect it. It can be done by removing the fuse also.
Change TAC module:
If resetting doesn’t work, maybe the TAC module of your vehicle is permanently damaged. Then you need to replace it with a new one.
Check wirings:
To ensure that there is no short circuit in the throttle body check all the wires that are connected to the system.
How Much Does It Cost To Solve The P1516 Error Code?
The cost to solve the P1516 can vary with the reason that is working behind the problem.
Like, if the throttle body needs to be replaced, it can cost something from 300-500$. Again, if the problem is in the sensor, it can cost nearly 250$ to change it.
Along with this price, repair costs can be added according to the repair shop.
Common mistakes when diagnosing the P1516 code?
While diagnosing the P1516 code on a chevy vehicle, people often do some silly mistakes. I’m sharing those here so that you can avoid it while scanning this problem:
- As the check engine light can be turned on for many reasons, people often misunderstand this indication. So, to be sure whether the problem is within the TAC module, check the throttle capacity first.
- Some people use cheap wiring and sensors to reduce costs. But in the long run, it can cost you more actually. So, always try to maintain a standard while choosing parts for the engine.
people also ask (FAQs)
1. Why TAC module is necessary?
The TAC module provides the necessary control to the electrical throttle system.
2. Where is the TAC module located?
The TAC module is located on the driver’s side. There are two connectors of 10 and 16 pins on it.
3. Is it okay to drive with P1516 code on chevy?
Though your vehicle will still run with the P1516 code, in most cases the throttle won’t respond. To it’s good to repair it as soon as possible.
How to fix your Chevy Silverado Check Engine Light | Code P1516 Engine Code Fixed 2003 Silverado >> Check out the video below:
Verdict
Problems that are related to P1516 code chevy can be very irritating while driving. The speed of your vehicle won’t go up and the acceleration won’t work.
As a result, the driving experience becomes a nightmare. So, to avoid this situation, it’s really wise to regularly check engine parts and repair them if necessary.
Otherwise, eventually, permanent damage can occur. Then it will cost you a huge amount of money. And of course, you don’t want to happen this.
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