What it means
The positive contactor D of the battery charging system reports a control circuit low 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 D switches part of the battery's high-voltage charging path. The control module monitors its control-circuit signal and sets this code when the signal is lower than expected. A control wire short to ground, an internally shorted coil, or corroded connector pins can pull the circuit low.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Control wire shorted to ground
- Internal short in 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
- Record freeze-frame data and related codes, then use live data to verify that the positive contactor D control circuit is being reported low.
- With the vehicle powered down as specified by the manufacturer, inspect contactor D wiring for a short to ground, rubbed insulation, or damage.
- Check the connector for corrosion, moisture, loose fit, or terminals that are pushed back.
- Following the manufacturer's high-voltage safety and isolation procedures, test the control wire for a short to ground and compare coil condition with the manufacturer's specification.
- If the wire and coil pass, follow the manufacturer's circuit tests to assess the contactor driver and module input.
Common fixes
- Repair a control wire shorted to ground or a damaged harness section.
- Clean or repair corroded positive contactor D connector terminals.
- Replace positive contactor D if its coil is internally shorted or outside the manufacturer's specification.
- Repair the control driver or module if testing confirms it is pulling the signal low.
Can I keep driving?
Do not depend on the vehicle for travel if it will not enter Ready mode, and avoid repeated charging attempts while charging is disabled. The high-voltage path may remain unavailable, leaving the vehicle unable to start or charge.
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.