What it means
The control module detected hybrid/EV battery charging current above its calibrated limit. The cause and protective response depend on the vehicle.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
The hybrid or EV battery management system monitors current flowing into the battery during charging and coordinates the charger to keep that current within limits. This code sets when measured charging current exceeds the calibrated limit, potentially because of charger output, a drifting current sensor, or an abnormal battery cell group.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Charger output current too high
- Current sensor drifted
- Pack cell imbalance approaching service threshold
Symptoms
- EV/hybrid system warning light on
- Reduced power output or limp mode
- Charging may fail or be slowed
- Reduced electric range
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and identify whether the fault occurred during AC charging, DC fast charging, or regenerative charging.
- Use a scan tool to review charging current, commanded current, charger status, and any battery management codes.
- Inspect accessible charging connectors and current-sensing wiring for poor seating, corrosion, heat damage, or chafing.
- Compare battery cell-group data and the current sensor reading with other available charge-system data to check for imbalance or sensor drift.
- Test the charging current sensor and charger output under the service procedure, comparing results with the manufacturer's specification.
Common fixes
- Reseat or repair a loose, damaged, or overheated charging connection.
- Repair wiring or connector faults in the charging current sensor circuit.
- Replace a current sensor only when testing confirms its reading is inaccurate.
- Repair or replace the charger if its output exceeds the commanded level with sound sensing circuits.
Can I keep driving?
Stop charging if the warning appears and follow the vehicle's instructions for disconnecting the charger; do not repeatedly restart a session that triggers the fault. If reduced power or other hybrid warnings occur, avoid driving until the charging fault is assessed.
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.