Powertrain, generic · Hybrid propulsion

P0AE1 Hybrid/EV Battery Precharge Contactor Circuit

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

Before the main contactors close, a precharge contactor routes battery current through a resistor so the inverter capacitors fill slowly instead of drawing a damaging inrush. P0AE1 is the general fault of this precharge path when it is not split into stuck closed (P0AE2), stuck open (P0AE3) or a driver fault (P0AE4 to P0AE7). Honda lists P0AE1 as a bypass contactor malfunction in bulletins 20-030 (2012-15 Civic Hybrid) and 20-021 (2013 ILX Hybrid); there a cracked solder joint in the motor power inverter is the cause and the whole inverter is replaced. Mercedes-Benz names P0AE173 on the G 580 with EQ technology after unplugging the AC charger too early. Expect no ready mode or no charging.

Likely causes

Defective solder joint in the motor power inverter (Honda IMA)
Precharge contactor or precharge resistor failed
Fault logged by battery controller software after an interrupted charging sequence
Wiring or connector fault in the contactor circuit

Symptoms

  • Hybrid or EV system warning in the cluster
  • Vehicle does not become ready to drive
  • Charging not possible

Repair estimate

DifficultyShop_onlyWorkshop job
Parts and labour€150–3,000
Time1–5 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

hv battery precharge contactorwiring harnessbms

Related codes

P0AE2P0AE3P0AE4P0C77P0C78P0AA0

References: static.nhtsa.gov, static.nhtsa.gov, static.nhtsa.gov, law.cornell.edu.