Known Issues/C1516/Mazda

C1516 on Mazda

Roll Rate Sensor Signal Fault

Critical1 Mazda model affected$200-$1,200 typical repairSystem: Chassis
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C1516 on Mazda vehicles indicates roll rate sensor signal fault. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Mazda model — most commonly on MX-5 Miata. C1516 is a manufacturer-specific chassis code (documented on Ford/Lincoln) indicating an invalid or out-of-range signal from the roll rate sensor. The roll rate sensor is part of the rollover/stability sensor cluster and reports the vehicle's side-to-side roll motion, which the stability and rollover mitigation systems rely on. When the module cannot validate this signal against other inputs, it disables the affected stability functions and sets the code. Meaning can vary by maker, so verify against the factory manual. Typical repair costs on Mazda range from $200 to $1,200, depending on the specific model and root cause.

Common Causes of C1516

  • •Faulty roll rate / rollover sensor cluster
  • •Sensor cluster mounted loose or misaligned
  • •Damaged wiring or connector to the sensor cluster
  • •Open or short to power/ground on signal circuits
  • •Poor ground or low supply voltage
  • •Restraint/stability control module fault

C1516 on Mazda by Model

Mazda MX-5 Miata(1 issue)

  • Electric Power Steering (EPS) Failure and Warning Light (NC)2006-2015

    The NC Miata uses an electric power steering system that can fail due to a faulty steering angle sensor, EPS control module, or motor. When the system fails, the EPS warning light illuminates and power assist is lost, making the steering very heavy at low speeds. While the car remains drivable (it is manual rack-and-pinion underneath), parking and tight maneuvers become difficult.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does C1516 mean on Mazda?▼

C1516 stands for "Roll Rate Sensor Signal Fault." C1516 is a manufacturer-specific chassis code (documented on Ford/Lincoln) indicating an invalid or out-of-range signal from the roll rate sensor. The roll rate sensor is part of the rollover/stability sensor cluster and reports the vehicle's side-to-side roll motion, which the stability and rollover mitigation systems rely on. When the module cannot validate this signal against other inputs, it disables the affected stability functions and sets the code. Meaning can vary by maker, so verify against the factory manual. On Mazda specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.

What causes C1516 on Mazda vehicles?▼

Common causes on Mazda: Faulty roll rate / rollover sensor cluster, Sensor cluster mounted loose or misaligned, Damaged wiring or connector to the sensor cluster, Open or short to power/ground on signal circuits, Poor ground or low supply voltage. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.

How much does it cost to fix C1516 on a Mazda?▼

Repair costs on Mazda range from $200 to $1,200, depending on the specific model and root cause.

Which Mazda models have C1516 documented?▼

Au7o has documented C1516 on 1 Mazda model: MX-5 Miata.

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