C3161 Diagnostic Trouble Code

C3161 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code.

It is considered generic because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles, although specific repair steps may be different depending on your car model.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a C3161 diagnostic trouble code may include:

If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected
Corroded or damaged connector
Reduction in engine performance, especially at low RPM levels
Engine surge

Possible Causes :

Rusty exhaust systems, cracked exhaust manifolds or damaged or missing gaskets or donuts will cause air leaks.
An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code
Fuel with a large percentage of sulfur will clog the DPF quickly

Repair Processes :

Replace the oxygen sensor that is downstream from the catalytic converter on the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder #1. Also, if a oxygen sensor code stating "heater circuit malfunction" the sensor has most probably failed. Look for rubbing, scraping, bare wires, worn spots or melted plastic connectors. Pull the connectors apart and carefully look at the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connectors. Find out what kind of system you have and verify that voltage to the fuel level sensor is present at the fuel pump wiring harness.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code C3161 is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before C3161.

Fortunately, C3161 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.

C3161 Trouble Code For Specific Cars

C3161 Mazda Eunos TRS Circuit Intermittent Malfunction
C3161 Subaru 1600 Lateral Accelerometer Signal Fault
C3161 Bmw R 1200 Gs Clutch position ckt short to battery
C3161 Lotus Esprit Traction Control Module Request Circuit Failure
C3161 Mazda 360 Transmission Transfer Case Contact Plate 'C' Open Circuit
C3161 Ac 428 A/C Water Pump Detection Circuit Failure
C3161 Continental Mk Ii Fuel Select Switch Malfunction