What it means
The HV battery discharge circuit performance is outside calibration. Discharge resistor or contactor fault.
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 discharge circuit safely removes stored high voltage from parts of the system when required. The control module monitors the circuit’s discharge behavior and sets this code when it falls outside calibration, which may involve the discharge resistor, discharge contactor, or battery condition.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Discharge resistor value drifted
- Discharge contactor aged
- 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
- Scan the hybrid or EV system for related high-voltage codes and record freeze-frame data before clearing faults.
- Check the displayed battery warnings, power limitation, charging behavior, and electric range to establish which symptoms accompany the code.
- Inspect only accessible low-voltage wiring and connectors related to the discharge circuit for visible damage, without opening or probing high-voltage components.
- Have the discharge resistor and contactor checked using the manufacturer’s high-voltage isolation and diagnostic procedures.
- If those components test correctly, have battery condition and cell balance evaluated according to the manufacturer’s process.
Common fixes
- Repair a confirmed low-voltage connector or wiring fault affecting discharge-circuit control.
- Replace the discharge resistor if testing shows its value is outside the manufacturer’s specification.
- Replace the discharge contactor if its operation fails the manufacturer’s checks.
- Address battery cell imbalance or pack service needs if manufacturer-directed testing identifies them.
Can I keep driving?
Reduced power, limited operation, or an EV/hybrid warning can affect the vehicle’s ability to accelerate or remain operational, so stop safely if power becomes inadequate or the vehicle instructs you to stop. Do not open or work on the high-voltage system; arrange service using the vehicle’s specified procedure.
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.