Throttle Actuator Control Module Throttle Actuator Position Performance
2004-2007 Buick Rainier 4.2L I6
Description
The PCM detected that the throttle actuator (electronic throttle body) position does not match the commanded position. This code triggers the "Reduced Engine Power" warning, which is one of the most dreaded issues on GM trucks and SUVs. The vehicle may be limited to very low speeds.
Symptoms
- Reduced Engine Power message (most prominent)
- Check Engine Light
- Severely limited throttle response
- Vehicle may not accelerate past 15-20 mph
- Limp mode
- Poor idle quality
Common Causes
- Faulty throttle body motor or TPS
- Carbon buildup restricting throttle blade movement
- Throttle body wiring harness damage
- Corroded throttle body connector
- PCM software issue requiring reflash
- TAC module failure
- Intermittent connection at throttle body
Diagnostic Steps
- Monitor commanded vs actual throttle position with scan tool
- Inspect throttle body for carbon buildup
- Check throttle body wiring harness for damage
- Test throttle body motor resistance
- Verify 5-volt reference and ground circuits
- Check for PCM software updates/TSBs
Repair Notes
Clean throttle body thoroughly. If cleaning does not help, replace throttle body assembly. Check for PCM reflash TSBs. Commonly seen on Silverado, Tahoe, Sierra, Yukon, and Trailblazer.
Related Codes
Other Powertrain Codes
- P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
- P0002Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0003Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
- P0004Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
- P0010Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0011Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0012Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
- P0013Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0014Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0015Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
P1516 on Other Vehicles
Common Questions
What does code P1516 mean on a 2004-2007 Buick Rainier?
P1516 stands for "Throttle Actuator Control Module Throttle Actuator Position Performance". The PCM detected that the throttle actuator (electronic throttle body) position does not match the commanded position. This code triggers the "Reduced Engine Power" warning, which is one of the most dreaded issues on GM trucks and SUVs. The vehicle may be limited to very low speeds.
What are the symptoms of P1516 on a Buick Rainier?
Common symptoms of P1516 include: Reduced Engine Power message (most prominent), Check Engine Light, Severely limited throttle response, Vehicle may not accelerate past 15-20 mph, Limp mode, Poor idle quality.
What causes P1516 on a 2004-2007 Buick Rainier?
Common causes of P1516 include: Faulty throttle body motor or TPS, Carbon buildup restricting throttle blade movement, Throttle body wiring harness damage, Corroded throttle body connector, PCM software issue requiring reflash, TAC module failure, Intermittent connection at throttle body.