Powertrain, generic (extended)

P25A3 Engine Hood Open

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

P25A3 is a state code, not a wiring fault: the hood is reported open at a moment when the control strategy expects it closed, for example while an automatic restart, a remote start or a hybrid engine pull-up is pending. No manufacturer documents P25A3 publicly. A Stellantis STAR case on hood switch 2 explains the background: the PCM reads that switch directly, cross-checks it against the latch switch state sent by the body module over CAN, and if either reads open it disables stop-start until the trip ends and blocks remote start. CARB's OBD rule cites an override of start-stop disablement as an emissions-neutral diagnostic. Circuit faults of the switch itself are P254F and P257D–P257F. A hood not fully latched or a misadjusted switch striker is the usual reason.

Likely causes

Hood only on the safety catch, not fully latched
Hood switch or striker misadjusted after body work
Latch-integrated switch sticking in the open position

Symptoms

  • Hood open warning in the cluster
  • Auto stop-start and remote start locked out
  • Engine keeps running at standstill instead of stopping

Repair estimate

DifficultyEasyDIY possible
Parts and labour€0–200
Time0.1–1 h

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

Parts involved

hood latchhood switch

Related codes

P254FP257DP257E

References: static.nhtsa.gov, law.cornell.edu.