BMW Wallbox shows E16; internal DC fault or insulation monitoring error, charging disabled
Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: This is a safety-critical fault. Turn off the breaker immediately and do not use the Wallbox until inspected.
- Inspect cable and plug: Look for visible damage, cuts, or moisture on the BMW Wallbox cable and Type 2 connector. If wet, allow to dry completely in a warm, dry place.
- Check installation environment: Ensure the Wallbox is not exposed to direct water spray or standing water. Address any roof leaks or wall moisture.
- Test with another EV (after drying): If safe and dry, test with a different vehicle. If E16 appears with multiple vehicles, the issue is likely in the Wallbox.
Because DC fault detection is integral to user safety, any persistent E16 requires professional diagnosis. A BMW-certified electrician should test insulation resistance and replace the DC fault sensor, power module, or entire Wallbox as recommended.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
We may earn a commission from links on this page.