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E16

STIHL · FS 56 RC-E Trimmer

STIHL FS 56 RC-E Trimmer E16 Error Fix: Fuel Tank Cap Vent Blocked

The fuel tank cap vent is clogged, causing vacuum in tank and fuel starvation leading to engine stalling.

Medium severity2 fixes available
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Quick Answer

Error E16 on the STIHL FS 56 RC-E Trimmer means: Fuel Tank Cap Vent Blocked. The top-ranked community fix is “Replace Fuel Tank Cap (easy difficulty, ~10 min, DIY cost: $10-$15). 2 community-ranked fixes available below.

Published February 2026 · 2 fixes · string trimmer

Content is based on manufacturer service documentation, community repair experience, and OEM technical bulletins. Always verify with your owner's manual.Learn about our editorial standards.

Root Cause Analysis

Fuel System IssuePrimary

When to Call a Professional

While many string trimmer repairs can be done safely at home, consider hiring a qualified technician if:

  • The repair involves electrical wiring, gas lines, or refrigerant
  • You've tried the top-ranked fix and the error persists
  • You smell gas, see sparking, or notice water leaking
  • The repair requires specialized tools you don't have
  • Your appliance is still under manufacturer warranty

Average professional repair cost for this issue: $60-$90.

People Also Ask About STIHL FS 56 RC-E Trimmer Error E16

What does error code E16 mean on a STIHL FS 56 RC-E Trimmer?
Error code E16 on the STIHL FS 56 RC-E Trimmer means: Fuel Tank Cap Vent Blocked. The fuel tank cap vent is clogged, causing vacuum in tank and fuel starvation leading to engine stalling.
How do I fix error code E16 on my STIHL FS 56 RC-E Trimmer?
The most successful fix is "Replace Fuel Tank Cap" (easy difficulty, ~10 minutes). Estimated DIY cost: $10-$15. HomeMD has 2 community-ranked fixes for this error.
Is error code E16 on a STIHL FS 56 RC-E Trimmer serious?
This error is rated medium severity. It should be addressed soon, but your appliance may still function in a limited capacity.
Can I fix STIHL FS 56 RC-E Trimmer error E16 myself?
Yes — the top-ranked community fix ("Replace Fuel Tank Cap") is rated easy difficulty and takes about 10 minutes. Tools needed: .
How much does it cost to repair STIHL FS 56 RC-E Trimmer error E16?
DIY cost: $10-$15. Professional repair typically costs $60-$90. Many homeowners save money by trying the top-ranked community fix first.
What other error codes does the STIHL FS 56 RC-E Trimmer have?
The STIHL FS 56 RC-E Trimmer has 8 other known error codes, including: E01 (Engine Overheating), E02 (Ignition Coil Failure), E03 (Carburetor Malfunction), E04 (Fuel Filter Clogged), E05 (Spark Plug Fouling), and 3 more.
Which other STIHL models have the E16 error?
Error code E16 also appears on 10 other STIHL models: BG 86 C-E Blower, BGA 57 Battery Blower, BR 600 Backpack Blower, FS 91 R Trimmer, FSA 57 Battery Trimmer, MS 180 C-BE Chainsaw, and 4 more. The fix may vary by model, so check each model's specific page for tailored repair steps.
What other error codes does the STIHL FS 56 RC-E Trimmer have?
Which other STIHL models have the E16 error?

Error code E16 also appears on 10 other STIHL models:

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