What is the P1316 Code on 7.3 Powerstroke? How Do You Fix It?

Ford 7.3L informs the user of any engine problems via DTCs (Diagnostic trouble codes). DTC P1316, one of these codes, indicates that there is an issue with the IDM.

This article will help you understand the P1316 error code. This article will discuss the causes, symptoms, and solutions to this problem code.

What does the P1316 code mean on a 7.3L Powerstroke?

P1316 is one DTC for the Ford 7.3L Powerstroke motor. This error code P1316 is detected by, definition, Injector Driver module (IDM) codes.

Your Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected one IDM code or more. You are informed by DTC 1316. You may have wondered if it would be better to show the IDM codes directly.

It’s simple. Your OBD-II scanner cannot read IDM codes. To read IDM codes, you will need a Bi-Directional Scan Tool. This error code is the PCM’s way of directing you to use the Bi-Directional Scanning Tool.

You’ll encounter three problems when you get this code, regardless of whether you use a Bi-Directional Sca Tool.

1. Problem with UVCH Connector
2. Four or all eight injectors are sticking together (rare Case).
3. Faulty IDM (Rare Case)

Continue reading to learn more about the symptoms of the code DTCP1316.

Signs You Might Get The P1316 Code On A 7.

The P1316 code, like all other Ford DTCs, has visible symptoms. If you experience the following symptoms, expect to receive the error code.

1. The Engine Light is On (Permanently or Frequently)
2. It’s hard to start an engine
3. Engine Misfires
4. Rough Running Experience

If you get this code, you may experience only some symptoms. The engine light will alert you to a problem, and you can use an error scanner.

The Causing Factors of The Error Code: P1316

P1316 error code is one of the most frequent error codes for 7.3L engines. There may be a design flaw in the UVCH connectors.

These are the causes of error code P1316

• UVCH Connectors Disconnected or Loose
• Bad UVC Harness
• Faulty Injector Driver module & Wirings (Rare Case)

This error code can only be retrieved by referring to the above causes.

How Serious is Code P1316 on 7.3L Powerstroke?

DTC P1316, a trouble code, will follow you until the end (of your engine). This error code can cause engine problems, such as difficulty starting the engine or frequent engine lights.

This code has a direct impact on the engine. It’s best to remove it as soon as possible. Although it is a DIY project, you should be bold and seek professional help.

How To Solve P1316 Error Code On 7.3L Powerstroke?

You can’t fix the exact problem with P1316.

This code indicates that one or more hidden IDM codes exist; you will need to find them to resolve this error code.

Let’s start by identifying the problem injectors first.

Identify Injectors Problem & Error Codes First

You can narrow down the problem your engine is having by extracting the error codes. You can then fix each one one by one to get rid of this code.

Tools you’ll need:

A Bi-Directional Scanning Tool is required. For this purpose, I recommend an AutoEnginuity Scan Tool (AE) which costs approximately $500.

If you have the AE ScanTool available, perform a KOEO Self-Test (also known as the Buzz Test).

KOEO Self Test Of The 7.3L Powerstroke

Run the KOEO self-test using the AE ScanTool. The sound coming from the injectors is all you have to pay attention to.

Eight injectors are found in the engine. Four are from the driver’s side (Right Bank), and four are from the passenger side. The other four are from the left bank. Below is a list of injector numbers.

• Driver Side (Right Bank): 2nd, 4th, 6th & 8th Injectors
• Passenger Side (Left Bank): 1st, 3rd, 5th & 7th Injectors

These steps will help determine which exhaust manifold side is causing the problem.

• Step 1: Perform the test, and you’ll be able to hear all injectors buzzing simultaneously.
• Step 2: Now, you will hear them buzzing one after another. You can count them as follows: 1, 2, 3,… To identify the injectors.
• Step 3: Note which injectors have issues (Passenger side or Driver side). This will help you identify and fix the problem.

Notice: The IDM will send other DTCs via KOEO self-test/Buzz Test, and you’ll need to follow their instructions. You won’t get any additional error codes if you use alternative methods.

KOEO Self-Test/Buzz-Test Alternative

The AE Scan Tool is expensive at $500. Using Harbor Freight (costs $40-50) or the Temperature Gun is better.

Let’s start with the temperature gun. Most of you have one.

Temperature Gun For Identify Injectors Problem

These steps will help you identify the (Left and Right) exhaust manifold that is having problems:

• Step 1: Start the engine for approximately 4 to 5 minutes.
• Step 2: Point each exhaust manifold to maintain the temperature.
• Step 3: Power issues occur in the exhaust manifold at a lower temperature.

Once you have identified the problem, proceed to the article’s next section.

UVCH Connector Reconnect or Replace

The tests above will tell you which side of the UVCH (Under Valve Cover Harness) connector is defective or has issues.

First, remove the valve cover. You can also lose the turbo side and save money by not having to buy new o-rings.

Take a look at UVCH connectors. They could be loose or disconnected. Check if they are tightened or connected.

If the connectors are damaged, you can replace them. You can use a shim to prevent loose connector issues again.

You can check & replace IDM (rare Case)

If the UVCH connectors problem is still a problem, you should look at the IDM (Injector Drive Module).

You can use any 7.3 engine IDM to test if your IDM is defective. If your IDM turns out to be defective, you can replace it with any Auto Shop.

These are the most commonly used troubleshooting methods, provided your IDM does not split severe DTCs during the Buzz test. Expert help is recommended if the IDM gives more than one code.

What is the cost of solving the error code P1316?

Scan tools and scanners will cost you money. These are the price lists:

• OBD-II Scanner: $150+
• Bi-Directional ScanTool: $450+
• Harbor Freight: $40+

You may need to buy UVCH connectors later on. They cost around $30.

Finally, professional assistance can cost you $75-150 an hour.

Common Mistakes in Solving the P1316 Code

You might make these most common errors when solving the error code P1316.

1. It is not correct to read the buzz of injectors.
2. If necessary, do not use a Bi-Directional Scans Tool.

Additional comments regarding the P1316 code

There are many reasons why the P1316 code may appear. If you are lucky enough to replace the UVCH connectors, your engine will not misfire or display the code again.

If you don’t have the budget to purchase one, borrow a Bi-Directional Scan tool. If you have any issues with your UVCH harness, you can take it to an auto shop.

Conclusion

I hope you found this article helpful. You can now identify and solve the code without having to spend a lot of money on labor.

If your efforts are unsuccessful in fixing the error code P1316, consider hiring professional assistance. Although this may be costly, it will save you a lot of money in the long term.