P3816 BMW Fault Code

Description:

Catalytic converters must be warm before they can work properly. On a cold start the PCM provides a rich mixture to keep the cold engine running.
All that extra fuel goes into the catalytic converter. But the exhaust isn't very hot, because, ah, the engine is pretty cold. GM has employed several strategies to fire up the catalytic converter quicker and reduce cold start emissions. One way is to use a secondary air pump that pumps outside air directly into the catalytic converter.

P3816 Code Symptoms :

The original multi-displacement system turned off opposite pairs of cylinders, allowing the engine to have three different configurations and displacements. P3816 code had an elaborate diagnostics procedure, including showing engine trouble codes on the air conditionning display. However, the system was troublesome, misunderstood by customers, and a rash of unpredictable failures led to the technology being quickly retired.

Diagnosis And Repairing P3816

P3816 OBD2 reports a sensor fault, replacement of the sensor is unlikely to resolve the underlying problem. The fault is most likely to be caused by the systems that the sensor is monitoring, but might even be caused by the wiring to the sensor itself.

How to fix P3816 code ?

• Air fuel ratio (A/F) Sensor 1 Bank 1 harness is open or shorted
• Exhaust tube
• EVAP system hose leaking
• Lack of fuel

At this point we are assuming that the fuses and relays are good. You will need to locate the PCM/TCM and the power input signal circuit using your vehicle information source.

Unplug the connector from the PCM/TCM, place the ignition switch in the ON position, and probe the appropriate circuit with the positive test lead of the DVOM.