What it means
The positive contactor C of the battery charging system reports a circuit condition. HV charging path cannot be commanded reliably.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
Positive contactor C is an electrically operated switch in the battery charging system's high-voltage positive path. The control module monitors its circuit to determine whether it can command that contactor reliably; this code indicates a circuit fault that may prevent charging-path operation.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Contactor failed
- Wiring or connector fault
Symptoms
- Hybrid or EV system warning
- Charging may fail or stop
- Vehicle may not enter Ready mode
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and check whether the vehicle failed to charge, enter Ready mode, or reported a related contactor code.
- Inspect the accessible contactor C control wiring and connectors for damage, loose connections, or corrosion, following the vehicle's high-voltage safety procedure.
- Check the contactor C control circuit for continuity, shorts, and connector condition against the manufacturer's wiring information.
- Test the contactor coil or control input as specified by the manufacturer, without opening or probing the high-voltage path unless qualified and equipped.
- If wiring and control checks pass, have contactor C and the charging-system control module evaluated using the specified service procedure.
Common fixes
- Secure or repair a loose or damaged contactor C control connector.
- Repair an open, shorted, or corroded section of the contactor C control wiring.
- Replace positive contactor C if it fails its specified electrical test.
- Repair the charging-system control circuit if testing isolates the fault there.
Can I keep driving?
Do not attempt to bypass or handle the high-voltage contactor; if the vehicle will not enter Ready mode or charging stops, arrange safe recovery and diagnosis. Repeatedly attempting to charge may not restore operation and can leave the vehicle unusable.
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.