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Home / DTC / P1516 — Intake Manifold Runner Control Input Error

P1516 — Intake Manifold Runner Control Input Error

Detailed page for trouble code P1516.

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Code

P1516

LINCOLN P — Powertrain

Intake Manifold Runner Control Input Error

Brand: LINCOLN
Type: P — Powertrain
AI status
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Page language: EN

Causes

  • Faulty IMRC actuator (motor, vacuum diaphragm or integrated position sensor)
  • Broken or stripped actuator gears, linkage, or mechanically stuck runner flaps
  • Open, shorted, or corroded wiring/connectors to the IMRC actuator/position sensor
  • Poor ground or lost reference voltage (typically 5V) to the IMRC sensor
  • Carbon build-up inside intake manifold preventing runner movement
  • Failed IMRC control solenoid (on vacuum-operated systems)

Symptoms

  • Check Engine MIL illuminated
  • Reduced engine power, hesitation or lack of torque at certain RPM ranges
  • Rough idle or surging
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Possible limp-home mode or derate on some vehicles
  • Intermittent symptoms if wiring is intermittent

What to check

  • Read stored and pending codes and capture freeze-frame data with a scan tool
  • Inspect IMRC actuator, linkage and intake manifold for carbon build-up or mechanical interference
  • Visually inspect wiring and connector for damage, corrosion or looseness
  • Backprobe connector with key on to verify 5V reference, sensor signal and ground
  • Use scan tool to command IMRC open/close and observe commanded vs actual position parameters
  • Check for related codes (vacuum system, PCM comms) that could help isolate the fault

Signal parameters

  • IMRC position/feedback is typically a variable signal referenced to PCM (0–5 V range) — expected near one end-stop when closed and near the other when open
  • Stable reference voltage from PCM (about 5V) and a solid ground are required
  • Signal should change smoothly and consistently when the actuator is commanded; intermittent or no change indicates wiring/actuator issue
  • Actuator movement time should be short and repeatable (typically under a second to a few seconds depending on design)
  • Check continuity between sensor pins and PCM; no short to battery or ground

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Connect a capable scan tool. Read PIDs, freeze-frame and related codes. Note whether PCM is commanding IMRC and what the reported position is.
  2. Visually inspect the IMRC actuator, linkage and intake for carbon, broken gears or obstructions. Manually move the actuator (with ignition off) if serviceable to check for binding.
  3. Inspect connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, crushed wires or poor terminals. Repair any visible issues.
  4. With key ON (engine OFF), backprobe the IMRC connector: verify 5V reference, ground continuity and that the position signal is present. Compare to expected 0–5 V behavior.
  5. Use the scan tool to command the IMRC between positions while observing the feedback signal and watching the actuator physically. If command does not move actuator but PCM is commanding, check actuator power/ground.
  6. If actuator is vacuum-operated, verify vacuum supply and solenoid operation; replace faulty solenoid or hose as needed.
  7. If signal is open/short or inconsistent, perform harness continuity and resistance checks back to the PCM. Repair wiring as required.
  8. If actuator does not respond and wiring and power/ground are good, replace the IMRC actuator assembly.
  9. After repairs, clear codes and road-test to verify proper operation and that the code does not return. Consider PCM reflash only if manufacturer bulletin or testing indicates PCM failure.

Likely causes

  • Failed or seized IMRC actuator/position sensor
  • Damaged wiring or connector (open, short to voltage or ground, corrosion)
  • Carbon or mechanical binding of the runner assembly
  • Faulty vacuum supply or control solenoid (if vacuum-operated)

Fault status

⚠️ Status
PCM detects IMRC input (position/feedback) out of expected range, missing, or inconsistent with commanded IMRC position.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1-3 hours

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Browse 166 LINCOLN manuals: repair procedures, diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component locations, service data and Labor Times by year, model and trim.

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