What it means
The inverter for drive motor A does not produce expected output torque or commutation timing within tolerance, indicating IGBT or gate driver issue.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
Drive Motor A's inverter switches high-voltage battery power into timed, three-phase current for the motor. The hybrid control system monitors inverter operation and its ability to produce commanded torque and commutation. This code points to an over-temperature condition reported for Drive Motor A's inverter; it does not by itself prove that an IGBT or gate driver has failed.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- IGBT degradation
- Gate driver fault
Symptoms
- EV/hybrid system warning light on
- Reduced motor power or torque
- Possible limp mode or vehicle shutdown
How to diagnose it
- Read freeze-frame data and hybrid-system live data for Drive Motor A inverter temperature, torque command, and any related cooling or inverter codes to see what was happening when the fault set.
- Check whether the inverter temperature reading is plausible from a cold start and whether it rises abnormally during operation.
- Inspect the inverter's cooling circuit, including coolant level where applicable, visible leaks, hoses, and pump or fan operation, following the manufacturer's safety procedures for high-voltage components.
- Check the inverter and motor connectors and harness for damage, corrosion, loose connections, or signs of overheating.
- If cooling and wiring checks pass, have the inverter's temperature sensing and power-stage operation tested against the manufacturer's diagnostic procedure.
Common fixes
- Restore the inverter cooling flow by repairing a leak or replacing a failed pump or fan, as confirmed by diagnosis.
- Repair damaged or corroded inverter wiring or connector terminals.
- Correct an inaccurate inverter temperature sensor or its circuit fault if testing identifies one.
- Replace or repair Drive Motor A's inverter only if power-stage testing confirms an internal fault.
Can I keep driving?
Avoid hard acceleration, steep climbs, and long trips if power is reduced or the hybrid warning is on; the vehicle may enter limp mode or shut down. If it loses drive power or displays a stop warning, pull over safely and arrange recovery.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.