Powertrain, generic · Hybrid propulsion

P0D51 Battery Charger Hybrid/EV Battery Output Current Sensor Circuit

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

P0D51 covers a circuit fault of the sensor that measures the direct current the on-board charger pushes into the traction battery. No manufacturer documents P0D51 itself. GM's charger module for the Volt and ELR and Mitsubishi's Outlander PHEV use the low and high codes P0D53 and P0D54 for electrical faults of this sensor, and Mitsubishi adds P0D52 for an offset check. Without a usable current value the charger can neither regulate charging current nor prove that its output power matches its input, a check GM performs under P0D5C. CARB obliges plug-in hybrids to detect charger malfunctions that prevent or slow charging. Expect AC charging to be blocked while the vehicle itself keeps driving.

Likely causes

Current sensor or its evaluation circuit in the charger failed
Open signal path between sensor and charger controller
Charger software fault

Symptoms

  • AC charging does not start
  • Charging system warning shown
  • Driving not affected

Repair estimate

DifficultyShop_onlyWorkshop job
Parts and labour€100–2,500
Time0.5–4 h

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

Parts involved

battery charger hv output current sensoron board charger

Related codes

P0D52P0D53P0D54P0D55P0D4CP0D5C

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