Powertrain, generic · Hybrid propulsion

P0CF3 Control Pilot Circuit/Open

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

The control pilot is the signal line between charging station and vehicle: the station drives a 1 kHz square wave of about ±12 V, the vehicle loads it through a diode and resistors and thereby moves the level between the charging states. P0CF3 means the charge control module sees this line as interrupted, so no usable pilot reaches it although a connector is expected. FCA lists P0CF3-00 for the Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid 2018 and 2019 (hybrid control processor, North America) and for the Jeep Renegade and Compass 4xe 2020-2021 (integrated dual charging module, Europe); each bulletin cures false entries with new module software. Implausible levels fall under P0CF4, shorts under P0CF5 and P0CF6, dropouts under P0CF7. Usually the car refuses to start charging or stops shortly after plugging in.

Likely causes

Charging or hybrid control module software misjudging the pilot (FCA reflash bulletins)
Bent, pushed-back or corroded pilot pin in the charge inlet, or a broken pilot wire
Defective charging cable or station that delivers no pilot signal

Symptoms

  • Charging does not start although the cable is plugged in
  • Charging aborts shortly after connection
  • Malfunction indicator lamp on and code not clearing (FCA)

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€80–900
Time0.5–3 h

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

Parts involved

control pilot circuitcharge portwiring harnesson board charger

Related codes

P0CF4P0CF5P0CF6P0CF7P0D57P0D2A

References: static.nhtsa.gov, static.nhtsa.gov, static.nhtsa.gov, en.wikipedia.org.