Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
Malfunction in the Injection Timing Control Circuit
What does that signify?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code that is applicable to vehicles equipped with OBD-II. Although it is a generic code, the specific repair steps may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
In simple terms, this means that there is a timing failure in the diesel fuel injection pump. This could be due to the need for adjustment of the injection pump timing or it could be an internal failure in the injection pump that cannot be adjusted.
NOTE: If you have a Dodge Ram with a Cummins engine, it is important to be aware that fuel delivery problems often lead to this code. Prolonged fuel delivery problems can result in injection pump failure!
Symptoms
The symptoms of a P0216 DTC may include:
Causes
The most common cause of this code is a faulty injection pump due to inadequate fuel delivery. Fuel delivery problems could be caused by:
Possible Solutions
First, check if your injection pump timing can be adjusted. If it can, verify the timing and make adjustments if necessary.
If you suspect a fuel delivery problem, inspect the operation of the lift pump. In the case of a Dodge Ram with the Cummins engine, the lift pump should deliver approximately 45 oz of diesel fuel in 25 seconds of operation. This can be tested by disconnecting the fuel hose from the injection pump and pumping the fuel into an approved container. Crank the engine but do not start it. The lift pump will operate for 25 seconds. If the fuel is aerated, inspect and repair the fuel line before retesting.
With the fuel hose connected, the fuel pressure should be 10psi. If the fuel delivery tests fail, replace the diesel fuel filter and retest.
If the problem persists, ensure that there are no obstructions in the fuel tank.
Then, replace the lift (transfer) pump. It is important to note that if this code appears after a routine fuel filter replacement or if any of the above symptoms occur after a routine fuel filter replacement, the fuel transfer pump should be suspected. This is because even a weak transfer pump can still provide enough fuel for the engine to run. However, when the fuel system loses its prime due to a fuel filter replacement, the engine may not restart without resolving the fuel delivery problem.
If you determine that your injection pump is faulty, check the operation of the lift pump to protect the new injection pump. Weak or low output from the lift pump is a common cause of injection pump failure. There are aftermarket kits available for purchase that can warn the operator when the fuel pressure or volume drops to a level that could damage the injection pump.
