Powertrain, generic · Hybrid propulsion

P0C16 Drive Motor B Inverter Phase W Over Temperature

Check engine lightOn

EmissionsRelevant

Drive cycleNot required

Limp modePossible

P0C16 is set by the motor B inverter when phase W runs too hot and the temperature sensor itself shows no fault. GM's tables give PIM sensor F above 98 °C for the 2011 Volt, above 88 °C with an 85 °C reset for the 2012 two-mode trucks, and 131 °C for 1.2 s within 2 s for the 2016 Volt, with 1.5 s in the 2019 table; each is Type A, one trip. Thermistor circuit codes such as P0BE0 and P0BE1 take priority and block the check. P0C14 and P0C15 are phases U and V, P0C13 is phase W on motor A. CARB allows some protective overtemperature strategies to run without MIL, but GM lights it here. Look for weak cooling first; until then motor B is derated.

Likely causes

Low coolant level or air in the power electronics loop

Electric coolant pump of the inverter failed or blocked

Dirty low-temperature radiator or inoperative fan

Symptoms

Malfunction indicator lamp after one drive
Reduced propulsion, notably at high load or high ambient temperature
Hybrid system overheat message

Repair estimate

DifficultyHardWorkshop job

Parts and labour€50–3,500

Time0.5–5 h

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

Parts involved

drive motor b inverter phase w

References: gsi.ext.gm.com, gsi.ext.gm.com, gsi.ext.gm.com, law.cornell.edu.