P0216

What it means

P0216 is the generic code for a fault in the injector or injection timing control circuit. It is mainly seen on diesel engines with a mechanical or electronically controlled pump that has a timing advance device or timing control solenoid. The control unit has detected that the commanded injection timing and the actual timing (or the circuit's electrical state) do not agree, or that the control circuit is open, shorted or out of range.

Symptoms

• Engine cranks but is hard to start or will not start
• Rough idle or uneven running
• Loss of power and poor acceleration
• Excessive diesel knock or rattle
• Visible smoke from the exhaust, black or white
• Engine warning light on, possibly with limp mode

Possible causes

• Wiring or connector fault in the timing control solenoid or injector circuit (open circuit, short, corrosion, chafed loom)likely
• Faulty injection timing control solenoid or timing advance devicelikely
• Faulty injection pump or pump internal timing mechanism (design depends on the engine)possible
• Incorrect mechanical timing, such as a worn or incorrectly set timing belt or chain, or pump not set correctly after a repairpossible
• Faulty crankshaft or camshaft position sensor giving the control unit a poor timing referencepossible
• Low or contaminated fuel supply or poor fuel pressure affecting the timing responsepossible
• Fault inside the engine control unit's driver circuit, or an outdated calibration where the manufacturer has issued an update for this faultrare

How to diagnose

1. Read all stored codes and freeze frame data, noting engine speed, load, temperature and whether other timing, rail pressure or sensor codes are present
2. Check for known issues or service bulletins for the specific engine and model, as the layout of the timing control varies
3. Inspect the wiring and connectors to the timing control solenoid or injectors for damage, corrosion, heat damage, chafing and poor pin tension
4. Check the battery condition and charging voltage, plus the relevant earths and fuses, as low voltage can set circuit faults
5. Measure the solenoid or injector circuit resistance, supply and control signals against the manufacturer's data
6. Check crankshaft and camshaft sensor signals and their wiring, and compare live data for timing target against actual
7. Check the mechanical timing is correct, including the belt or chain and pump timing marks where applicable
8. Check fuel supply, filters, and for air or contamination in the fuel, then test the pump if the electrical checks pass

How to fix

• Repair or replace damaged wiring, connectors or terminals in the timing control circuit
• Replace the faulty timing control solenoid or timing advance device
• Repair or replace the injection pump if it has an internal timing or control fault
• Correct the mechanical timing and replace worn timing components as needed
• Replace faulty crankshaft or camshaft position sensors
• Replace the control unit or apply a manufacturer calibration update only if a fault in the unit or its software is confirmed

Can I keep driving?

Nearby codes

• P0215GenericEngine Shutoff Solenoid
• P0217GenericEngine Coolant Over Temperature Condition