C3161 Continental Mk Ii Diagnostic Trouble Code

C3161 Continental Mk Ii code definition:
C3161 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code for Continental Mk Ii.

C3161 Continental Mk Ii is described as Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Circuit Malfunction. It's actually a general trouble code for a problem on IAT electrical circuit sensor, as it sends incorrect voltage input signals to the PCM. As you drive and when specific conditions are slowly met, the vapors will gradually purge from the charcoal canister and will get burned within your engine.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a C3161 Continental Mk Ii 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

Common Misdiagnoses

Control Module Throttle Actuator Position Performance Problem
Air Conditioning (A/C) Clutch Feedback Circuit High Voltage Problem
Cruise Vehicle Speed/Set Speed Difference Too High Problem
Kick-Down Switch Failed Short Problem
Park/Neutral Postion (PNP) Switch Circuit Engine Torque Signal Circuit Problem

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 Continental Mk Ii 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 Continental Mk Ii.

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