I will try a different approach to fix the issue were the updater doesn't update an existing installation of the game....
1-get the 1.16 updater
2-drop it in the directory (example C:\\VAM )
3-run the updater
4-it has one option to repair game install run that one. click on "Options" and then click on "Force Repair"
4.5-Run Game Enter 1.16 key it should accept it now and when you log on see the menu it should say current version 1.16.02*
*or whatever current version it might be at the time you do this fix ... at this time is 1.16.02
5-If that doesn't help then "backup your files" meaning anything that requires single downloads.
Textures
Plugins
Scripts
Saves
Morphs
Assets (well assets folder is inside the saves folder so just backup the whole saves folder [remember to NOT overwrite when moving it back after installation since the install will have the newer files] and i say to do this because the saves folder has all your goodies .. unless you haven't made anything and in that case you got all of everyone else's goodies..)
6-Do a clean Install of V1.16
7-Throw your stuff back inside.
8-Run the updater again.
9-put your head-set on if using VR.... enjoy!
Emm ... and if somehow it still doesn't work then go to the storage-shed grab a Big wrench key and smash your PC .... or set it on fire! ..... blame it on a power surge! and claim the insurance money to go buy a new PC.
Then do the Steps 6-9 again.