Conditions for Setting the DTC
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Envoy XUV, 2004 GMC Envoy XL, 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer, and 2004 Buick Rainier. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
If the PCM detects a temperature difference between the ECT sensor and the IAT sensor of more than 15°C (27°F), then the vehicle must be driven for more than 400 seconds over 24 km/h (15 mph). If the IAT sensor temperature decreases more than 3°C (5°F), a block heater is detected and the test is aborted. If the IAT sensor temperature does not decrease, a block heater was not detected and DTC P0116 sets.