P2016 on Subaru
Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Circuit Low (Bank 1)
P2016 on Subaru vehicles indicates intake manifold runner position sensor/switch circuit low (bank 1). Au7o has documented this code across 2 Subaru models — most commonly on WRX, WRX STI. This code indicates the engine computer detected a low-voltage signal (often a short to ground) from the intake manifold runner position sensor or switch on Bank 1. This sensor reports the position of the variable intake runner flaps. A persistently low signal tells the computer the sensor circuit is faulty and it can no longer confirm runner position, which can affect airflow optimization and emissions. It usually sets a check engine light and is generally not an immediate safety risk. Typical repair costs on Subaru range from $250 to $1,400, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P2016
- •Wiring shorted to ground in the sensor circuit
- •Faulty intake manifold runner position sensor
- •Corroded or damaged sensor connector
- •Carbon buildup affecting runner position feedback
- •Failed runner actuator
- •PCM circuit fault (rare)
P2016 on Subaru by Model
Subaru WRX(1 issue)
- Tumble Generator Valve (TGV) Shaft Seizure or Actuator Failure Setting P2004-P2007 and Forcing Limp Mode2008-2021
Turbo WRX intake manifolds carry tumble generator valves — butterfly plates in each runner driven by a small electric actuator with a position sensor. The original valve shaft material corrodes from EGR/condensation and binds, or the actuator motor/sensor fails, and the ECU logs TGV stuck-open/stuck-closed codes (P2004-P2007, sometimes P2016/P2017 position sensor codes). The car goes into a reduced-power mode. Subaru acknowledged the shaft corrosion in TSB 02-182-19 and revised the shaft material. It affects both the EJ255 (2008-2014) and FA20DIT (2015-2021) WRX, with separate part numbers per engine.
Subaru WRX STI(1 issue)
- Tumble Generator Valve (TGV) Sensor/Motor Fault (P2004/P2005/P2011/P2016)2004-2014
WRX STI models with EJ257 intake TGV assemblies can develop failures in the TGV position sensors or actuator mechanisms, leading to stuck-open/stuck-closed conditions. Owners report check engine lights, rough cold starts, and reduced drivability, especially in colder weather. This issue is frequently discussed in owner reports and appears in diagnostic guidance/TSBs for Subaru intake runner control/TGV-related DTCs.
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What does P2016 mean on Subaru?▼
P2016 stands for "Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Circuit Low (Bank 1)." This code indicates the engine computer detected a low-voltage signal (often a short to ground) from the intake manifold runner position sensor or switch on Bank 1. This sensor reports the position of the variable intake runner flaps. A persistently low signal tells the computer the sensor circuit is faulty and it can no longer confirm runner position, which can affect airflow optimization and emissions. It usually sets a check engine light and is generally not an immediate safety risk. On Subaru specifically, this code is documented across 2 models.
What causes P2016 on Subaru vehicles?▼
Common causes on Subaru: Wiring shorted to ground in the sensor circuit, Faulty intake manifold runner position sensor, Corroded or damaged sensor connector, Carbon buildup affecting runner position feedback, Failed runner actuator. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P2016 on a Subaru?▼
Repair costs on Subaru range from $250 to $1,400, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Subaru models have P2016 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P2016 on 2 Subaru models: WRX, WRX STI.