OBD-II fault code

P0AF0: Drive Motor Inverter Temperature Sensor A Circuit High

What it means

The control module detects a high electrical signal in the drive motor inverter temperature sensor A circuit. This indicates a circuit or sensor signal fault, not necessarily that the inverter itself is overheating.

At a glance

  • Usually lights the check-engine light
  • The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode

How it works

Drive motor inverter temperature sensor A monitors the temperature of a specific area in the inverter. The control module sets this code when sensor A's circuit signal is electrically high, which can result from a short to voltage, an open sensor, or poor connector contact; it does not by itself mean the inverter is overheating.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Signal wire shorted to voltage
  2. Open sensor or circuit
  3. Poor connector contact

Symptoms

  • EV/hybrid system warning light on
  • Reduced motor power or torque
  • Possible limp mode or vehicle shutdown

How to diagnose it

  1. Review freeze-frame data and inverter temperature live data to confirm sensor A is the outlier and note whether its signal appears stuck high.
  2. Compare sensor A with other available inverter temperature readings to check whether the fault is limited to this circuit.
  3. With the vehicle powered down as specified by the manufacturer, inspect sensor A's harness and connector for a signal wire contacting a power source, an open connection, corrosion, or loose pins.
  4. Test the sensor A circuit for an open or short to voltage using the manufacturer's wiring information.
  5. Test sensor A and connector contact against the manufacturer's specification to identify an open sensor or poor connection.

Common fixes

  • Reseat and secure the sensor A connector.
  • Repair a signal wire shorted to voltage or an open in the circuit.
  • Clean or replace corroded or damaged connector terminals.
  • Replace sensor A if it is open or fails the manufacturer's test.

Can I keep driving?

Avoid high-load driving if the vehicle limits motor power, and stop safely if a drive system warning appears or propulsion becomes unreliable. The module may reduce motor output or shut the vehicle down because it cannot trust sensor A's reading.

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.

Codes for the same component