C3169 Pierce-arrow 8 Diagnostic Trouble Code

C3169 Pierce-arrow 8 code definition:
C3169 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code for Pierce-arrow 8.

C3169 Pierce-arrow 8 is defined as Knock Sensor Circuit Range Performance (Bank 1 or Single Sensor). This refers to camshaft timing, which in this case is over-retarded. The PCM then uses this data to provide the right strategies for the fuel delivery and ignition timing of the engine.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a C3169 Pierce-arrow 8 diagnostic trouble code may include:

Misfire
Misfire
The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.
If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected

Possible Causes :

Fuel with a large percentage of sulfur will clog the DPF quickly
The Mass Airflow sensor will also cause this problem. Mass Airflow circuit malfunction.
An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code

Common Misdiagnoses

Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Performance Problem
TP Sensor Learn Not Complete Problem
Low Coolant Circuit Problem
Cruise Control System - Vehicle Accel Too High Problem
Kick-Down Switch Failed Short Problem

Repair Processes :

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. Oxygen sensors signal the engine management computer the amount of oxygen present in the exhaust, which is used in determining and controlling the fuel ratio. If all testing has passed so far yet you still have the same code, check your scan tool and see if it can open and close the IMRC valve.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code C3169 Pierce-arrow 8 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 C3169 Pierce-arrow 8.

Fortunately, C3169 Pierce-arrow 8 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.