OBD-II fault code

P0BDE: Drive Motor Inverter Temperature Sensor "E" Circuit High

What it means

The ECM detects a circuit high fault on the drive motor inverter temperature sensor e 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

Inverter temperature sensor E reports temperature at its monitored point in the drive motor inverter to the ECM. P0BDE sets when the E signal circuit voltage is above its acceptable range, which can result from a signal short to battery voltage or an open sensor circuit; the ECM cannot use the reading reliably.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Signal wire shorted to B+
  2. Open sensor
  3. 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

  1. Review freeze-frame and hybrid control data to see when sensor E went high and whether other inverter temperatures appear normal.
  2. With the vehicle powered down as directed by the manufacturer, inspect sensor E's connector and wiring for an open, corrosion, or insulation damage near power-feed wiring.
  3. Test the E signal for a short to B+ and check circuit continuity and connector contact condition using the manufacturer's procedure.
  4. Compare sensor E live data with other inverter temperature readings; a fixed extreme value can point to an open or short rather than real heat.
  5. If the harness passes, test sensor E against the manufacturer's specification before investigating the control module.

Common fixes

  • Reseat sensor E's connector and clean or repair corroded terminals.
  • Repair an open in the E signal circuit or connector.
  • Repair damaged insulation that lets the E signal contact B+.
  • Replace sensor E if it fails the manufacturer's test.

Can I keep driving?

Reduced motor power, limp mode, or shutdown may occur because the ECM cannot monitor temperature E reliably. Limit driving to reaching a safe location, avoid heavy loads, and stop if a hybrid warning or power loss appears.

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