What it means
The positive contactor C of the battery charging system reports a control circuit high 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 a high-voltage switch controlled through a low-voltage circuit. The module monitors that circuit while commanding the contactor; this code sets when its signal rises above the expected range, such as from a short to battery positive or an open coil path.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Control wire shorted to B+
- Open contactor coil
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
Symptoms
- Hybrid or EV system warning
- Charging may be disabled
- Vehicle may not start or enter Ready mode
How to diagnose it
- Read freeze-frame data and related codes to identify when the positive contactor C control-circuit signal went high.
- Check scan-tool command and feedback data, if available, to see whether the high signal occurs when positive contactor C is commanded.
- With the system made safe under the manufacturer's procedure, inspect the control wire and connector for contact with battery-positive wiring, damaged insulation, corrosion, or loose pins.
- Have a qualified technician test the isolated control wire for a short to battery positive, following the manufacturer's procedure.
- If the wiring passes, have the technician test the positive contactor C coil and connector voltage drop against the manufacturer's specification to identify an open coil or resistive connection.
Common fixes
- Repair control wiring that is shorted to battery positive.
- Repair corroded, loose, or high-resistance connector pins at positive contactor C.
- Replace positive contactor C if its coil is open.
- Repair the module output circuit if testing identifies it as the source of the high signal.
Can I keep driving?
Charging may be disabled, and the vehicle may not start or enter Ready mode. Avoid relying on it until the high control-circuit signal is resolved; have high-voltage system work handled by a qualified technician.
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.