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P0A16 code meaning

Engine Mount A Control Circuit High

Powertrain system Generic code P0Axx codes Check engine light

What P0A16 means

The module sees a higher voltage on the control circuit of engine mount A than it should for the commanded state, usually a short to a supply line or a failed actuator input. The mount can then no longer be switched or driven as intended. Ford lists P0A16 in its 2020 to 2023 gasoline OBD summary under the active mount circuit check, matured after about 5 seconds once the driver reports the fault; mount B uses P0AB8. On Honda's active control engine mounts, such as the 2008 Pilot V6, P0A16 belongs to the front mount actuator and P0AB8 to the rear one. A Ford patent shows the mounts are toggled between soft and firm, so a fault means either harsh idle or more movement. See P0A14 and P0A15.

P0A16 at a glance

  • Check engine lightYes, usually on
  • Emissions testNot an emissions code
  • Limp modeNot expected
  • Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
  • Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
  • Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner

Symptoms of P0A16

  • Harsh idle or more engine movement on take-off
  • Warning light, depending on manufacturer
  • Vibration during cylinder deactivation

Common causes of P0A16

  • Most likelyControl wire shorted to a battery or ignition supply
  • PossibleMount actuator or solenoid failed with an open low side
  • Less likelyDriver stage in the engine or mount control unit damaged

Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.

Parts involved

Engine mount aWiring harnessECM

What each part of P0A16 means

PPowertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission.
0Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard).
AArea: hybrid propulsion.
16The exact fault in that area.

What to do next

  • Note P0A16 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
  • Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
  • Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
  • Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.

Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.

Questions about P0A16

What does P0A16 mean?

P0A16 means "Engine Mount A Control Circuit High". The module sees a higher voltage on the control circuit of engine mount A than it should for the commanded state, usually a short to a supply line or a failed actuator input. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.

Is it safe to drive with P0A16?

Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.

Will P0A16 fail an emissions test?

P0A16 is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.

How hard is P0A16 to fix?

Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.

Will P0A16 clear itself after the repair?

Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.

Look up another code

Technical content: OBDex open OBD-II database (public domain, CC0), checked 14 Oct 2026, edited for US drivers by the VinGear team.
Technical sources for P0A16