Powertrain, generic · Vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs
P053A PCV Heater A Control Circuit/Open
Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo
The PCV heater is an electric element of a few ohms (Saab: 6–10 Ω) at the junction of the ventilation hose and the intake; it stops water in the blow-by gas from freezing and blocking the ventilation in frost. The module switches it to ground. P053A means its control circuit is open. GM's diesels of 2016 check it with 20 of 40 samples below 90 °C coolant without warning lamp, GM Europe's 2.0 CDTI in the Saab 9-5 with the lamp on the first trip – a difference even within GM. The heater then has no effect, which only matters in hard frost.
Likely causes
Heating element burnt out
Connector or wire open, corrosion
Fuse of the ignition supply blown
Engine module
Symptoms
- Often none, except in frost
- Check engine light (depending on the maker)
- In frost: oil leaks or loss of power from frozen ventilation
Repair estimate
DifficultyEasyDIY possible
Parts and labour€30–250
Time0.3–1.5 h
Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.
Parts involved
pcv heaterheater wiringengine control module
Related codes
References: gsi.ext.gm.com, saabwisonline.com, static.nhtsa.gov, patents.google.com.