Powertrain, generic

P0EB8 A/C Compressor Motor Phase W Current Sensor Circuit High

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

P0EB8 indicates that the phase W current sensor of the compressor inverter delivers a value above its usable range. Since the motor is not actually drawing such a current, a short to a positive supply in the sensing circuit or a failed sensor element is the most probable explanation. The W-phase series runs high, low and plausibility from P0EB8 to P0EBA, while the general W circuit code sits apart at P0EC0. No manufacturer documents P0EB8 publicly. GM's first-generation Volt flagged a W-phase reading of plus 68 A or more with the motor stopped under the older code P0D7E, Type B, and demanded a 12 V reset before the test could pass. Air conditioning stops. Counterpart: P0EB9; the same fault on U and V: P0EB2, P0EB5.

Likely causes

Failed phase W sensor element
W-phase sensing circuit shorted to a positive supply
Fault in the W input of the inverter controller

Symptoms

  • A/C stops working, warning shown
  • Compressor will not restart until the fault is cleared

Repair estimate

DifficultyShop_onlyWorkshop job
Parts and labour€150–2,500
Time1–5 h

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

Parts involved

ac compressor motor phase w current sensorac compressor module

Related codes

P0EB9P0EBAP0EC0P0EB2P0EB5P0D7E

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