What it means
The drive motor control module has requested MIL illumination via the inter-module bus. Underlying fault is reported separately.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
How it works
The drive motor control module manages the electric drive motor and communicates fault status to other modules. This code means it has sent a request over the vehicle network for the check-engine light to turn on; the code itself does not identify the underlying drive-system fault.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- A fault in the drive motor control module that causes it to request MIL illumination
Symptoms
- Check-engine or hybrid-system warning light
How to diagnose it
- Scan all vehicle modules and record stored, pending, and history codes before clearing anything, because the drive motor module may report the fault that triggered the request.
- Read freeze-frame or event data from the drive motor control module and note the operating conditions associated with its fault.
- Check the drive motor module's live data and status for active faults or a MIL request.
- Inspect accessible drive motor module connectors and harnesses for loose connections, corrosion, moisture, or damage, following the vehicle's high-voltage precautions.
- Diagnose the drive motor module's underlying code using the vehicle's service information, then rescan to confirm the MIL request clears.
Common fixes
- Repair a loose or damaged drive motor module connector or harness identified during inspection.
- Correct the specific drive motor control fault reported by the module.
- Repair a vehicle-network connection only if module communication faults support that diagnosis.
- Replace or reprogram the drive motor control module only if testing identifies it as the cause.
Can I keep driving?
A warning light alone does not establish whether the vehicle is safe to drive; check for accompanying hybrid warnings, reduced power, or abnormal drive behavior. If any occur, avoid continued driving and arrange diagnosis because the underlying drive motor fault is reported separately.
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.