What it means
The pedestrian alert (AVAS - Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System) control module reports a circuit high condition. Acoustic warning at low speed for pedestrians may be impaired.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
How it works
The pedestrian alert control module runs the acoustic warning that helps pedestrians hear a quiet hybrid or EV at low speeds. The vehicle monitors the module circuit and sets this code when its signal is higher than expected. A short to B+ or an open module input can cause this high-circuit fault and may prevent the warning sound from working.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Wire shorted to B+
- Open module input
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
Symptoms
- Check-engine or hybrid/EV system warning light on
- Pedestrian alert sound may be absent or intermittent at low speeds
How to diagnose it
- Save freeze-frame data and check for related pedestrian-alert or hybrid-system codes to identify whether the high signal occurred with other faults.
- At a safe standstill, check whether the pedestrian alert sound operates under the vehicle's normal low-speed conditions.
- Inspect the module connector and harness for chafing, pinched insulation, or contact with a battery-positive feed.
- Check for corroded, loose, or backed-out connector pins that could leave the module input open.
- Use the manufacturer's wiring diagram to test for a short to B+ and verify the module input and its connections before replacing parts.
Common fixes
- Repair any pedestrian alert circuit wire shorted to B+.
- Reconnect a loose module input wire or repair an open in the harness.
- Clean or replace corroded or damaged connector terminals.
- Replace the module only if its input remains high with the wiring and connections confirmed sound.
Can I keep driving?
The vehicle may remain drivable, but pedestrians may not hear it at low speeds. Drive cautiously near pedestrians and in car parks until the alert is working.
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.