What it means
The control module detected hybrid/EV battery discharging current above its calibrated limit. The cause and vehicle 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 measures current leaving the battery to supply the drive system and other loads. This code sets when discharge current exceeds the calibrated limit, which may reflect unusually high demand, an excessive torque request, or an abnormal battery cell group.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Load demand too high
- Excessive torque request
- 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 note vehicle speed, acceleration, power demand, and state of charge when the excessive current was detected.
- Use a scan tool to review battery discharge current, torque request, inverter demand, and related battery or motor codes.
- Compare battery cell-group voltage and current data for an imbalance that could trigger the limit.
- Inspect accessible battery, inverter, and motor connections for damage or poor contact, observing high-voltage precautions.
- Check the battery current measurement and drive-system demand controls using the service procedure, comparing results with the manufacturer's specification.
Common fixes
- Reduce excessive load or torque demand if data shows that it coincided with the event.
- Repair a damaged or poorly connected accessible battery or inverter connection.
- Repair a confirmed battery current sensing fault.
- Address a battery cell-group or drive-system fault only after testing identifies it.
Can I keep driving?
Avoid hard acceleration, towing, or other high-load driving while the hybrid warning or reduced-power mode is active. Stop safely if propulsion is limited or erratic, because continued high demand may worsen the fault or lead to protective 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.