Q: p1516 code on 03 v6 mustang. what should i ask to be fixed?

asked by on January 19, 2018

My car got a CEL and when i plugged in, i got error code p1516. What would you guys be fixing/replacing for me? about how much would it cost?

My car has 100000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Although a diagnostic would have to be performed, the code you are reporting is usually a consequence of a fault in the intake manifold runner control (IMRC). To rule the IMRC system in or out, the recommended diagnostic is an IMRC inspection. The IMRC system provides a means of adjusting the flow of air through the intake in relation to driving conditions. The system includes a vacuum solenoid that operates a butterfly valve in the intake. During slower driving when the need for air is less, the butterfly stays closed. However, in aggressive driving situations, the butterfly opens and increases the amount of air sent to the intake. The engine computer compensates for this by adjusting the fuel mixture, and the result is an increase in performance. The system can get gummed up with deposits though and then the code sets. If you request the IMRC inspection, the responding certified mechanic will pinpoint the cause of the code and get the fault repaired, right at your location. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic because we want you to make the most of your repair dollars and help you to get the best possible results.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Car won't start even though starter and battery tested good
Hi there. This sounds like an electrical issue your truck is experiencing. A bad connection will cause a surge of power just like the one you have. If your electrical system has a bad ground it will cause this sudden...
Steering wheel and front end shaking between 50+ mph
Hi there, thanks for writing in. The multiple warning lights illuminating on the dash is what triggers a red flag for me in your description above. The shaking in the steering wheel at the speeds you described could be tire,...
Battery drained in under 24 hours
This may be caused by many possible issues such as a short in the electrical system, a bad grounding connection, a faulty alternator, or a weak battery. Without further details, this may be difficult to diagnose. I would recommend having...
My car has transmission problems - 1990 Toyota 4Runner
Hello there, many faults will cause shifting issues with your 1990 Toyota 4Runner. The most common faults are low transmission fluid, faulty shift linkage, clutch cable, slave cylinder, or clutch. If the 4 wheel drive linkage is faulty, it should...
car wont start.
Hello, thank you for writing in. Low or no compression in the cylinders can be cause by several issues. If the starter is turning too slowly, the air is able to escape through the gaps in the piston rings, and...
Where is the map sensor located? 2004 Volvo XC90
Hi - the mass air flow meter (MAF) (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-buy-a-good-quality-mass-airflow-sensor) is located in between the air cleaner housing, and the engine's intake manifold. It is a black plastic cylinder about the size of a large coffee cup, with an electrical connector...
Replacement of body wiring harness
It would be difficult to say if the shorted area of the harness was damaged in the accident. If it is in the area of the impact, it may be possible. If the bad part of the harness is located...
Audio fuse keeps blowing after multiple attempts to change it.
Hello, thank you for writing in. When you jump-started the vehicle, you may have done damage to the radio. The radio itself may be continuously blowing the fuse as it is trying to turn on. You may want to try...
My 2005 acura tl tries to start when turn the key but it wont actually crank. Autozone said strter, alt, batt are good
Be sure the engine immobilizer system is not activated (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-shut-off-the-anti-theft-device-in-your-car-by-jason-unrau) thus preventing the car from starting. If the engine is not turning over (cranking) with the key held in the start position, that means that there is a problem...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Ford Explorer
Over Over 20 years ago, Ford changed everything for the American car-buying market when they introduced the first generation of the Explorer. Today, the 2012 Ford Explorer continues the evolution of modern large SUVs with a number of updates, including...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Ford Expedition
The The 2012 Ford Expedition has ample room for passengers and cargo, while still being able to tow anywhere from 8,900 to 9,200 pounds. The Expedition has two-tone exterior packages making it stand out against its competitors. Along with that,...
The Best Used Cars to Buy for Dog Owners
Dog Dog owners are a special breed of drivers. When they shop for a used car they have a list of requirements that can be quite different from other drivers, which tends to make the process a bit of a...