OBD-II fault code

P0E26: Drive Motor Inverter Temperature Sensor G Circuit High

What it means

The drive motor inverter temperature sensor G circuit signal is above the expected range.

At a glance

  • Usually lights the check-engine light
  • The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode

How it works

Inverter temperature sensor G reports the temperature at its monitored point inside the drive motor inverter. The control module checks the sensor circuit signal and sets P0E26 when that signal is higher than its expected range, which can make the inverter temperature reading unreliable.

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. Save freeze-frame data and compare sensor G's live reading with other inverter temperature readings and ambient conditions to see whether it is implausibly high.
  2. With the vehicle powered down according to its service instructions, inspect sensor G's connector and harness for corrosion, damage, poor seating, or contact with a power feed.
  3. Check the sensor G signal wire for a short to battery positive using the manufacturer's wiring information and test procedure.
  4. Check sensor G and its circuit for an open or poor connection, including voltage drop across suspect connector pins, following the manufacturer's specification.
  5. If the wiring and connections pass, test sensor G and the inverter control module input using the manufacturer's procedures before replacing either.

Common fixes

  • Clean and secure corroded or loose sensor G connector pins.
  • Repair a signal wire shorted to battery positive or an open in the sensor G circuit.
  • Replace sensor G if it tests open or out of specification.
  • Repair the inverter control module circuit if the sensor and wiring test correctly.

Can I keep driving?

Avoid relying on the vehicle for normal driving: reduced torque or limp mode may occur, and the vehicle could shut down. If the warning is accompanied by loss of power or charging problems, stop somewhere safe and arrange service.

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