Some base-model Vauxhall cars have a pretty small display on the dash and GM used to shorten the error messages to codes in older vehicles. This is not really convenient for the driver as they need to look in the owner’s manual (which, let’s be honest, not all drivers have) and decode those annoying codes.
If you see Code 16 on the dash of your Vauxhall vehicle, you may be sure that the problem is with the stop indicator light in one of the taillights of your car. This usually means that the light bulb needs replacement, but sometimes the problem is a little deeper than that.
In this short article, I will cover the Code 16 problem and the way to solve it.
Can Code 16 mean something else?
Well, in 95% of cases, the problem will be with the fried bulb that just needs replacement. In some cases, there can be an alternative reason for this code.
Like one of the following:
- the light bulb moved out of its place and requires to be fitted back;
- there are issues with wiring – some oxidation may have occurred or maybe one of the wires fell off;
- the problem is with the entire taillight or the connections.
Anyway, you will most likely need to start with the bulb and then move on to more complex reasons if you find that the bulb is working.
What should you do when you see Code 16 in your Vauxhall?
Well, the first thing to do is to stop safely in the allowed place. Then, find someone who can help you. Ask another person to tell you if both brake lights are working when you are pressing the brake pedal. If you can’t find anyone, locate your car’s rear end near some big window shop, press the brake pedal and see in the mirror – you will be able to understand if both lights go on when needed.
It well may be that both lights are OK but you still see the Code 16 error message on the screen. In this case, you may just need to take the bulb out, clean it a little, and then reinstall it. When it’s reseated, it should have normal contact and the error will go off.
If you are driving on the highway and there is no place to safely stop, just use the stalk that you usually use to operate the trip computer, press the button on that stalk, and the error message will go off. Otherwise, it will stay on for as long as the problem is in the taillight.
How do you change the bulb in the stop indicator light?
Vauxhall cars are usually pretty DIY-repair-friendly, at least the older ones. So, changing the bulb will not be a problem.
First of all, you will need to find the proper bulb. It’s usually easier and cheaper to find it online, but if your car has a problem, you may need it right there and then. Given Vauxhall cars are very popular in the UK, you may find the proper light bulb in almost any car part store.
For reinstalling the bulb, you will need to take the lid from the taillight. Usually, it sits on clamps, sometimes, you may need additional tools. Taking the bulb out is easy, but be careful – you don’t want to damage the slot.
If you have a garage near you, just get your Vauxhall there and ask a mechanic if they can install the new bulb. Usually, it takes about 5 minutes and may even cost you zero pounds if the mechanic has a good day and a good mood.
But in newer vehicles, installing the new bulb in the taillight may be pretty challenging. Very often, you may need to know the proper sequence of actions to do everything without damaging the taillight and the connections. So, if you have some of those fresh Vauxhall cars, you should think about going to the dealer or garage.
Can you keep driving with Code 16 on the dash?
Well, you need to check if at least one stop light works properly. Also, it’s not recommended to drive with some stop indicator problems at night. If you don’t have any other choice and need to drive at least to the nearest car parts store, be careful. Take the left side of the road. If the traffic is active, you may want to turn on the emergency lights to let other drivers know something is wrong with your car.
When it comes to police, they can stop you. But in the majority of cases, you will get a verbal warning. They will just tell you that one of the stoplights is off. Maybe, they will even smile at you.
At worst, you can get a 30-pound ticket and a 10-day notice to repair the light. Anyway, it’s cheaper than calling a tow truck or getting a taxi to go to the parts store.
Final thoughts
If you get the Code 16 in your Vauxhall, you will have issues with your brake light. Before you keep driving, stop and check if at least one stop light is working. Without this, it’s not safe to drive!
In most cases, you may change the light bulb in your Vauxhall on your own. But if you have a garage near you, maybe you will want to get your vehicle there and avoid digging in the taillight on your own.
