![What is the P1316 code on a 7.3 Powerstroke [Symptoms, Causes & Fix]](https://www.autoalmanac.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/What-is-the-P1316-code-on-a-7.3-Powerstroke-Symptoms-Causes-Fix-1024x512.jpg)
The Ford Powerstroke 7.3 V8 diesel engine is one of the most iconic Ford heavy-duty diesel engines to ever come out.
However, as with all engines, the 7.3 Powerstroke is far from perfect as there are many notable issues that can occur.
In this article, we are going to go in-depth about the P1316 fault code and tell you everything you need to know about it.
What does the P1316 code mean on a 7.3L Powerstroke?
The P1316 engine fault code pops up when the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) detects a problem with the IDM (Injector Driver Module).
It could be that the IDM is failing to transmit EF signals to the PCM whenever an issue occurs with its functions.
The P1316 fault code refers to a problem with the Injector Driver Module (IDM) and will need further analysis with more advanced scanning tools in order to deduce what caused it.
It is a relatively common code, and a fairly serious one as it can cause irreversible engine damage, which is why you shouldn’t drive if you don’t have to.
It isn’t the easiest problem to solve as it requires a bit of mechanical knowledge and a set of the right tools, but it also shouldn’t be an immensely expensive repair if taken care of as early as possible.
If you want to know more about this issue, all the symptoms and causes, and how much it costs to repair, you’ve come to the right place as that is exactly the topic of today’s article.
What are the symptoms of the P1316 Code on a 7.3 Powerstroke?
The P1316 code can pop up alongside the following symptoms:
- Check engine light or service engine soon light
- Engine running problems
- Subpar driving experience
- More fault codes
You can check out this table as a reference point while trying to diagnose and repair the system.
| Symptoms | Cause |
| Check Engine Light/Service Engine Soon Light | Faulty Injector Driver Module (IDM) relay |
| Engine running problems | Malfunctioning Injector Driver Module (IDM) |
| Subpar driving experience | Poor connections leading to the Injector Driver Module (IDM) |
| More fault codes (P0087, P0010, P0011) | Bad Powertrain Control Module (PCM) |
Check Engine Light/ Service Engine Soon Light
All bad things start with a check engine light, and the P1316 code is no exception.
As such, it would be wise to connect your 7.3 Powerstroke to a fault scanner as soon as possible.
Engine Running Problems
Besides the dreaded check engine light, there are many obvious symptoms linked to how the engine runs, both while idling and while driving.
These problems include (but aren’t limited to):
- The engine refuses to start.
- The engine takes a long time to start.
- Rough idling
- Engine misfiring
You can check out how some of these symptoms sound in this video.
Subpar Driving Experience
As the IDM is closely linked with the very essential workings of the engine, any problems with it are going to be noticeable while behind the wheel.
Intermittent or constant drops in performance, power delivery, and overall consistency are key, especially if also followed by check engine light in the car’s gauge cluster.
More Fault Codes
Many owners have also reported that the P1316 fault code tends to be followed by additional engine fault codes which can make the entire diagnostics process a bit more challenging.
Either way, be sure to scan the car as soon as you can, and if you see any of the codes listed below in conjunction with the P1316, the problem is more than likely the car’s IDM system.
The following codes are
- P0087 – Fuel Rail/System Pressure Too Low
- P0010 – “A” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)
- P0011 – “A” Camshaft Position – Timing Over – Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)
What causes the P1316 error code?
The P1316 error code on a 7.3 Powerstroke is caused by a faulty Injector Driver Module (IDM) relay, a malfunctioning IDM, poor connections leading to the IDM, or a bad Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
Faulty Injector Driver Module (IDM) Relay
The first and often most common reason why these symptoms occur is due to a faulty IDM relay which fails to open and close the circuit when prompted by an outside signal.
The relay itself can get damaged, the connection might be intermittent, or it can even get burnt or sometimes corroded.
Malfunctioning Injector Driver Module (IDM)
The module itself is also known to fail, predominantly because of water ingress.
The module housing comes with a small opening through which air is supposed to come in and cool down the system, which also opens it for water to get in.
Sadly, the vent needs to stay open so you can’t close it or clog it. Also, clogging or closing the vent can cause it to fail.
You can see what a water-damaged IDM looks like in this video.
Poor Connections Leading to the Injector Driver Module (IDM)
The IDM is connected to the PCM with a series of wiring harnesses which are also linked to some of the IDM’s nearby components.
For the IDM to work as intended, all of these need to be in tip-top shape.
If one of these wires becomes corroded, brittle, or cut, chances are that the PCM is going to be alerted and can thus prompt the P1316 fault code.
Bad Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Lastly, we also need to mention the PCM itself as it can sometimes be faulty and misinterpret a signal as an error, even though it isn’t.
These types of problems typically mean that you will be getting many more codes than just the P1316. In reality, this is rather rare, but it can happen.
How serious is code P1316 on a 7.3L Powerstroke?
The P1316 code can be an extremely serious issue if not dealt with immediately as you can never be 100% sure what is causing it if you don’t do a full system diagnostic inspection.
As such, it’s imperative not to ignore this issue even if the systems are intermittent and rather mild.
Driving with the P1316 code is dangerous even if the symptoms are mild. Once they become worse and start affecting the engine’s ability to even start up or idle, it can cause you to become stranded.
How to Fix P1316 Error Code on 7.3 Powerstroke
Now it’s time to dig deep and go ahead and fix these P1316 issues. Before doing the job, you need to make sure you go the right tools. These are:
- OBD2 Scanner
- Bi-Directional Scan Tool
- Safety Gear
Do not attempt to explore fixing this problem if you don’t have these essential tools.
Even though there are other ways you can repair this without using any of these, it’s not something you should do as it is dangerous both for you and your car.
Find the Problematic Engine Bank
In order to be able to discern which bank of the engine is causing these problems, you will have to scan the car with a Bi-Directional Scan Tool.
This engine offers 8 fuel injectors (4 on each side) which will have to be tested using the Key on Engine Off (KOEO) test or Buzz test.
Be sure to start the scanner and wait for a few buzzes. After the initial few buzzes, the machine is going to buzz in dedicated intervals.
You need to count these intervals precisely as that is going to tell which injectors are at fault.
The 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th buzzes represent the passenger’s side engine bank while the 2nd, 4th, 6th, and 8th buzzes represent the driver’s side of the engine.
If any of these buzzes are noticeably quieter or muffled, something is wrong with those injectors.
Repair or Replace the UVCH
Now it’s time to check on the wiring harness that connects the IDM to the rest of the system.
You first need to open the associated faulty bank of the engine and locate the wiring.
If the wires are loose, you can try and plug them in again as that can sometimes do the trick.
If you are not so lucky, the wires are likely damaged and will need to be replaced by a set of new ones.
You can buy these at most auto shops in the US, just be sure to specifically state the engine, the make, the model year, and preferably the part number itself.
Replace the IDM
If repairing/replacing the harness does not do the trick, you will need to replace the IDM system completely.
Replacing the IDM is a much more difficult task that requires great knowledge of electronics.
If you aren’t 100% aware of how to do this, it’s best to leave this task to a professional.
Replace the PCM
Sometimes the cause of this problem can be linked to more serious PCM issues, which will likely require replacing the PCM altogether.
This is also a really difficult and rather expensive thing to do, which is why you should take your car to a professional mechanic in order to see if the PCM is at fault or not.
If you do decide to replace the PCM yourself, always be sure to get the correct module with identical part numbers and other essential information.
An incorrect PCM can cause immense problems while also being nothing but a waste of money.
How much does it cost to solve the P1316 error code?
The final costs of solving the P1316 code are difficult to gauge precisely as it depends on what is exactly wrong with the system. Make sure to consult yourself with the costs table below.
| Component | Approx Costs |
| An OBD-2 Scanner Tool | $60-$900 (cheaper ones are mobile apps, more expensive ones are professional diagnostics tools) |
| Bi-Directional Scanner Tool | $250-$1,500 |
| New IDM | $300-$500 |
| Temperature Gun | $50 |
| New Wiring Harness | $35-$80 |
| New PCM | $500-$2,000 |
Common Mistakes While Solving the P1316 Code
The common mistakes people make when trying to solve the P1316 code include:
- Reading the injectors buzz sounds wrong
- Not using a bi-directional scan tool
- Using a faulty OBD2 scanner
- Misinterpreting the DTC
- Inaccurate bi-direction scan tool/ temperature gun
- Connecting the scan tool to the wrong injectors
Frequently Asked Questions
