P0216 Injection Timing Control Circuit Malfunction

P0216 indicates an injection timing control circuit malfunction. The controller cannot reliably command or verify injection timing control.

Code details

Generic OBD-II · P0

System: Fuel / Air
Code type: Generic (SAE / ISO controlled)
Standard: SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6

Diagnostic boundary

A diagnostic trouble code reports that a monitored test failed. It does not prove one specific part is bad, and manufacturer logic can add vehicle-specific conditions.

Do not adjust mechanical timing or replace the pump until command, feedback, and circuit data are compared.

Symptoms of P0216

Check-engine light on, sometimes with rough or uneven running.
Hesitation, surging, or a noticeable change in fuel economy.
Occasionally hard starting or a smell of unburnt fuel.

Common causes of P0216

A failing or contaminated sensor (MAF, MAP, oxygen or air-fuel sensor).
Intake or vacuum leaks, or an exhaust leak near an upstream sensor.
Wiring, connector, or fuel-delivery problems that skew the reading.

Useful checks before replacing parts

Compare commanded injection timing, actual timing feedback if available, fuel pressure, crank and cam signals, RPM, and load.
Inspect timing control solenoid wiring, connector condition, fuel quality, pump timing mechanism, and related crank or cam codes.
Check whether the fault appears during start, acceleration, high load, cold operation, or after injection pump service.

Related OBD-II codes

These nearby fuel / air entries can help compare wording and pin down the fault area.