Known Issues/P2016/Subaru

P2016 on Subaru

Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Circuit Low (Bank 1)

Moderate1 Subaru model affected$250-$1,400 typical repairSystem: Powertrain
NewAI Photo & Video Diagnosis
Not sure this is what you've got?
Upload a photo or video — Au7o will confirm the match and check for other common failures at the same time.
Upload & confirm

P2016 on Subaru vehicles indicates intake manifold runner position sensor/switch circuit low (bank 1). Au7o has documented this code across 1 Subaru model — most commonly on 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 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.

Looking for P2016 on a different make?

View P2016 across all makes →

Frequently Asked Questions

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 1 model.

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 1 Subaru model: WRX STI.

Share:@au7o.io