U016C code meaning
Lost Communication With Fuel Pump Control Module B
Network system Generic code U01xx codes Check engine light
What U016C means
U016C concerns fuel pump control module B, the second pump driver in vehicles with two pumps or two tanks; module A has U0109. Ford's 2020-2023 gasoline OBD summary watches pump B through its duty-cycle feedback line: a signal stuck at 0 % or 100 % sets U016C within 2-5 s at 11-16 V. Roush CleanTech's propane-converted Ford trucks pass the state of the second fuel pump relay to the PCM through a smart relay module, so wiring, fuse or relay faults on that path trigger it too. Stellantis case S2108000100 (Ram 1500 2021) shows U0109 and U016C together with a check engine lamp and crank-no-start, cured by cleaning frame ground G803A. CARB requires lost digital links like this to be detected. Fuel supply is at risk; MIL expected.
U016C at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of U016C
- Check engine light on
- Crank but no start, or stalling
- Lack of power or rough running under load
Common causes of U016C
- Most likelyLoose or corroded frame ground at the pump module (Ram G803A)
- PossibleFuse or relay for pump B or its driver open
- PossibleFeedback or bus wiring between pump driver B and PCM damaged
- Less likelyFuel pump control module B faulty
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Fuel pump module bCAN bus wiring
What each part of U016C means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 6C | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U016C 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 U016C
What does U016C mean?
U016C means "Lost Communication With Fuel Pump Control Module B". U016C concerns fuel pump control module B, the second pump driver in vehicles with two pumps or two tanks; module A has U0109. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U016C?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With U016C the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will U016C fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. U016C 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 U016C to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will U016C clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.