OBD-II trouble code
P1516: GM: Throttle Actuator Control - Position Performance
Application matters: GM’s cited monitor compares actual throttle position with a throttle model. The separate PIP5660A repair example covers listed 2019 XT4, Silverado 1500 New Model and Sierra 1500 engine combinations in North America, with different paths around its production breakpoint.
GM’s throttle-positioning check found a performance error. Confirm the actual throttle, connection and vehicle-specific findings before selecting a throttle body, pedal or controller.
Quick facts
- System
- Powertrain
- Category
- Electronic Throttle Control
- Severity
- Medium severity
- Driving guidance
- Depends on symptoms and vehicle guidance
- Repair cost range
- Get a vehicle-specific estimate after diagnosis.
- DIY difficulty
- Shop recommended
A code alone cannot establish whether driving is safe. Stop safely for a red brake or oil-pressure warning, overheating, severe misfire, stalling, or impaired braking or steering, and follow the owner's manual. Restraints faults can reduce crash protection even when the vehicle runs normally.
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What does P1516 mean?
P1516 is a manufacturer-specific throttle-position performance code in the GM information cited here. GM’s 2012 monitor table names Throttle Actuator Control - Position Performance and describes a throttle-positioning error: actual position and the throttle model differ beyond the applicable criteria. That is a monitored result, not proof that the accelerator pedal, throttle body or engine controller must be replaced.
Keep the full current/history code information and any companion faults. GM PIP5660A, published December 8, 2023, describes a malfunction indicator and possible Reduced Engine Power message with P2101 and/or P1516. Describe any response or power complaint already observed. A history code without an obvious symptom still needs its event and vehicle context; a reduced-power mode does not establish a safe trip.
PIP5660A covers North American 2019 Cadillac XT4 2.0L LSY, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 New Model 2.7L L3B and GMC Sierra 1500 2.7L L3B applications. It discusses possible internal throttle-body gel contamination, then divides its correction by a printed VIN production breakpoint. Before that breakpoint it specifies throttle-body replacement and retesting for the matching condition. After it, the document directs normal service-information diagnosis and checks of terminal tension and wiring between the ECM and throttle body. Have the repairer establish the correct branch rather than applying the replacement instruction to every P1516.
For another model, engine or production condition, use that vehicle’s diagnostic information. Do not infer a pinout, circuit arrangement or failure limit from the code number or from a different engine’s monitor table. A technician should establish the actual command/position and circuit findings before recommending component work.
Do not force an electronic throttle plate, probe a live connector, spray cleaner into the assembly as a trial repair or attempt a generic relearn. Leave throttle access, electrical testing and required setup to qualified personnel. If the vehicle loses usable power or responds unpredictably, move to safety and obtain assistance rather than reproducing the fault on the road. Ask for the diagnosed cause and the verification required after the confirmed repair.
Possible causes
- An actual throttle-positioning or control-path fault established by the matched procedure
- A terminal or wiring problem between the ECM and throttle body in the applicable GM diagnostic path
- Internal throttle-body contamination in the specifically covered PIP5660A condition and production branch
Symptoms
- A malfunction indicator with current or history P1516
- A possible Reduced Engine Power message in the cited GM example
- A throttle-response or power complaint requiring assessment of the actual vehicle
Diagnostic steps
Save the full scan report, code status, and available freeze-frame data before clearing anything. Confirm the reporting module, any failure-type suffix, and the procedure for the exact vehicle. The steps below are an overview; use manufacturer specifications and safety procedures for testing.
- 1.Save the full scan, code status and available event information before clearing. Describe warnings and response complaints already observed.
- 2.Have the vehicle, engine and production information matched to current service instructions. Do not choose the PIP5660A replacement branch solely from the code.
- 3.Have the technician assess the applicable actual/model position evidence and circuit information. The monitor’s positioning error does not itself distinguish an assembly fault from a connection problem.
- 4.For a matching PIP5660A vehicle, have the production breakpoint and correct repair or normal-diagnosis branch verified. Leave terminal checks and component access to professional service.
- 5.Approve the demonstrated repair, any prescribed setup and confirmation. Do not use cleaning, forced plate movement, generic relearns or an owner road test as diagnosis; obtain assistance for unpredictable response or serious power loss.
Repair cost
Get a vehicle-specific estimate after diagnosis.
A trouble code alone does not price the repair. Ask the shop to identify the confirmed fault and itemize diagnosis, parts, labor, programming or calibration, and taxes.
Estimate your repair
Run the numbers for your vehicle
Open the Repair Cost Estimator with vehicle-specific fault diagnosis preselected. Adjust labor rate and vehicle category to fit your situation.
Related repairs
These links are planning examples; the code does not confirm that any listed part has failed.
DIY vs shop
A qualified shop is recommended because this can involve manufacturer-grade tooling, training, or certification that most home setups do not have. Ask the technician what testing confirmed the repair.