DTC Advanced Diagnostics: P16E6
DTC P16E6:Transmission Range Switch START Switch Circuit Malfunction

General Description

The starter control system prevents the starter from accidentally activating when the shift position is not in P or N position/mode, or when the engine is running. If the vehicle is turned mistakenly while shift position is not in P or N position/mode or while the engine is running, the powertrain control module (PCM) will stop power to the starter cut relay circuits. However, cranking to return from auto idle stop does not correspond to this (if equipped). In this system, two starter cut relay circuits are connected in series (starter cut relay 1 circuit, starter cut relay 2 circuit) to prevent the starter from running continuously due to a starter cut relay circuit malfunction. Also a diagnosis line (ST RLY 1 TO 2) is connected to monitor the voltage between the starter cut relay 1 circuit and starter cut relay 2 circuit. Based on the diagnosis line signals, the PCM detects an OPEN malfunction of diagnosis line, an ON malfunction of starter cut relay 1 circuit, and an ON malfunction of starter cut relay 2 circuit. The PCM also equips with return signal circuits of starter cut relay 1 circuit and starter cut relay 2 circuit to detect an OFF malfunction. If the ATPST terminal is high for a specified time when the shift position is in other than P or N during the vehicle is in ON mode, the PCM detects a malfunction and stores a DTC.

Monitor Execution, Sequence, Duration, DTC Type
Execution
Continuous
Sequence
None
Duration
5 seconds or more
DTC Type
One drive cycle, MIL off

Enable Conditions
Condition
 
Vehicle
ON mode
Shift lever position/mode
Other than P or N

Malfunction Threshold
ATPST terminal is high for at least 5 seconds when the shift position is in other than P or N position/mode during the vehicle is in ON mode.

Possible Cause
NOTE: The causes shown may not be a complete list of all potential problems, and it is possible that there may be other causes.
Transmission range switch ATPST line short to ground
PCM internal circuit failure

Diagnosis Details
Conditions for setting the DTC
When a malfunction is detected, a Pending DTC, a Confirmed DTC, and the freeze data are stored in the PCM memory. The MIL does not come on.

Conditions for clearing the DTC
The Pending DTC, the Confirmed DTC, and the freeze data can be cleared with the scan tool Clear command or by disconnecting the 12 volt battery.