Powertrain, generic · Hybrid propulsion

P0BDC Drive Motor Inverter Temperature Sensor E Circuit Range/Performance

Check engine lightOn

EmissionsRelevant

Drive cycleRequired

Limp modeNo

P0BDC checks whether inverter temperature sensor E, GM's phase W sensor in the motor A inverter, agrees with the vehicle after a long stand. The 2016 and 2018 tables compare it after a cold soak with a calculated average temperature; more than 20 °C apart for 0.525 of 0.625 s sets Type B, two trips. A 2019 table uses the same 20 °C as Type A. The 2011 Volt compares it with power electronics coolant temperature (20 °C, Type A); the 2012 and 2013 two-mode trucks use 15 °C after at least 360 minutes off (Type B). GM bulletin PIC6303A says that on 2016-18 Volt, Malibu, LaCrosse and Regal the code has no remedial action; the inverter is replaced only together with P0AC4.

Likely causes

Phase W thermistor drifting out of tolerance

Uneven inverter cooling or residual heat after the soak period

Failing power inverter module (replace only with P0AC4 per GM PIC6303A)

Symptoms

Malfunction indicator lamp after two drives, often without any drivability change
Code found during inspection without customer complaint

Repair estimate

DifficultyShop_onlyWorkshop job

Parts and labour€100–4,000

Time0.5–6 h

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

Parts involved

drive motor inverter temp sensor ewiring harnesshybrid control module

References: gsi.ext.gm.com, gsi.ext.gm.com, gsi.ext.gm.com, gsi.ext.gm.com.