What it means
The active engine sound generator A (Active Sound Design or AVAS — Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System for EV/hybrid) cannot be driven. EV pedestrian warning sound or sport-mode engine sound is missing.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
How it works
Engine Sound Control A is the vehicle's first designated sound-generation channel, used in equipped vehicles for a simulated engine sound or an acoustic warning. The module monitors whether it can drive that channel; this code sets when the channel has an open circuit and produces no usable output.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Open output stage in the sound amplifier
- Broken control wire to amplifier
Symptoms
- Check-engine light may be on
- Pedestrian warning sound or simulated engine sound may be absent
How to diagnose it
- Use a scan tool to check Engine Sound Control A commands and fault status, and confirm whether the sound is absent during a condition when it should operate.
- Inspect the sound amplifier's connector and the wiring to channel A for breaks, loose pins, or corrosion.
- Check the amplifier's power and ground connections before testing its output stage.
- Test continuity through the control wiring to Engine Sound Control A using the manufacturer's wiring information.
- If wiring, power, and ground are intact, test the amplifier output stage and the connected sound unit against the manufacturer's specification.
Common fixes
- Reconnect or clean a loose or corroded channel A connector.
- Repair a broken control wire to the sound amplifier.
- Restore a faulty amplifier power or ground connection.
- Replace the amplifier if its channel A output stage is open.
Can I keep driving?
If this channel supplies an EV or hybrid pedestrian warning sound, avoid relying on the vehicle to alert people nearby and have the fault repaired promptly. If it only generates a simulated engine sound, normal driving is generally unaffected.
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.