P2616 code meaning
Camshaft A Position Signal Output Circuit High (Bank 1)
What P2616 means
P2616 is the opposite fault to P2615: the outgoing camshaft A position line on bank 1 stays at supply potential although the module has switched its low-side driver on and wants the line low. In GM's 2018 CT6 tables the ECM declares a power short once the impedance toward the supply is 0.5 ohm or less, using the same window of 40 bad readings in 50 at 100 ms intervals, engine not cranking and at least 11 V; the code is Type C, so the warning lamp stays off. A chafed wire touching a battery feed or a failed output stage are the usual suspects. Mitsubishi also lists P2616 for the 2022 Outlander. The downstream controller sees a steady level instead of pulses, which can upset cam phasing or starting.
P2616 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P2616
- Stored code without warning lamp
- Hard starting or hesitation after start
- Cam phasing faults logged by the receiving module
Common causes of P2616
- Most likelyOutput wire shorted to a battery or ignition feed
- PossibleLow-side driver in the engine module no longer switching
- Less likelyBack-feed through a damaged or corroded connector
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Control moduleSignal output bufferWiring harness
What each part of P2616 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 6 | Area: computer (engine control module) and output circuits. |
| 16 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2616 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 P2616
What does P2616 mean?
P2616 means "Camshaft A Position Signal Output Circuit High (Bank 1)". P2616 is the opposite fault to P2615: the outgoing camshaft A position line on bank 1 stays at supply potential although the module has switched its low-side driver on and wants the line low. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2616?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2616 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2616 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2616 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P2616 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P2616 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.