What it means
The ECM detects a circuit high fault on the drive motor inverter temperature sensor c circuit. Reading cannot be used reliably for control.
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 C monitors temperature at a specific point in the drive motor inverter for motor control and heat protection. This code sets when the sensor C circuit voltage rises above its expected range, often because the signal wire is shorted to battery voltage or the sensor circuit is open.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Signal wire shorted to B+
- Open sensor
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
Symptoms
- EV/hybrid system warning light on
- Reduced motor power or torque
- Possible limp mode or vehicle shutdown
How to diagnose it
- Save freeze-frame data and compare sensor C live temperature with other drive motor inverter readings for an implausibly high or fixed value.
- With the vehicle powered down as specified by the manufacturer, inspect the sensor C connector for corrosion, loose fit, or damaged terminals.
- Trace the sensor C signal wire for damage or contact with a power feed, and look for an open in the harness.
- Test the sensor C circuit for an unintended connection to battery voltage and check continuity using the manufacturer's wiring information.
- Test sensor C and the circuit response against the manufacturer's specification, then verify plausible live data after repair.
Common fixes
- Clean and secure corroded or loose sensor C connector terminals where repair is appropriate.
- Repair an open or damaged wire in the sensor C circuit.
- Repair the signal wire if it is shorted to battery voltage.
- Replace drive motor inverter temperature sensor C if it is open or fails the manufacturer's test.
Can I keep driving?
Keep driving gentle and brief because the vehicle may limit motor torque when it cannot rely on sensor C's temperature signal. Stop safely if power is severely reduced or a warning indicates possible shutdown.
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.