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P161C BMW Fault Code

Check P161C OBD Fault Code Reason
Description:

Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) Intermittent Indicates the powertrain control module (PCM) detected an error in the vehicle speed information. Vehicle speed data is received from either the vehicle speed sensor (VSS), transfer case speed sensor (TCSS), anti-lock brake system (ABS) control module, generic electronic module (GEM), or central timer module (CTM). This DTC is set the same way as P161C. However, it is intended to flash the transmission control indicator lamp (TCIL) for first time VSS circuit error/malfunctions. Refer to possible causes for P161C

P161C Code Symptoms :

See P161C in engine

OBD P161C code and tailpipe testing are two different approaches to identify vehicles in need of repair. The OBD system looks for broken or malfunctioning emissions control components and P161C, while tailpipe tests sample a vehicle's exhaust to see if it is above or below certain prescribed limits. Given the robust nature of today's emissions control components, it is entirely possible for an individual component to malfunction without leading to an immediate increase in emissions at the tailpipe.

In such cases, other components (like the catalyst) can temporarily compensate for the part that is broken however, these other components can only do double duty for so long before they, too, begin to malfunction. In addition, OBD also monitors for and other malfunctions in the fuel system problems that traditional tailpipe tests were not designed to identify. Most state and local areas also include a gas cap pressure test as part of an emission inspection.

Diagnosis And Repairing P161C

P161C OBD2 specifically refers to the camshaft (cam) timing. In this case, if the cam timing is over-retarded, the engine light will be illluminated and the code will be set.

How to fix P161C code ?

See P161C repair manual
  • Clogged or faulty fuel injector (s)
  • Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor (POS)
  • Faulty variable valve timing (VVT)
  • Lack of fuel

One example of this would be when an bmw automatic car in placed in gear. To prevent the added drag from the torque converter and transmission from reducing the idling speed, the PCM will command the idle control valve to allow more air to enter the engine, while at the same time, adjusting the injector pulse width to inject more fuel to suit the increased amount of air. Note that the idle air control valve is closed by the PCM when the throttle plate is opened to prevent excess air from entering the engine.

BMW Cars that meet P161C error