Powertrain, generic (extended)

P2CA6 DC/DC Converter Temperature Sensor E Circuit Low

Check engine lightOn

EmissionsRelevant

Drive cycleNot required

Limp modePossible

P2CA6 is logged when the voltage of DC/DC converter temperature sensor E sits below the lower edge of its window. Converter sensors are usually thermistors whose resistance falls as they warm, so a signal that collapses towards zero would mean a converter hotter than physically plausible. A chafed signal wire touching ground or an internally shorted thermistor is the normal explanation; genuine overheating would first produce smooth, believable readings. No manufacturer documents P2CA6 publicly, and published bulletins only go up to sensor D. CARB requires out-of-range detection on hybrid input components. Because the controller has to assume excess heat, it typically cuts converter power at once. The opposite signal fault is P2CA7.

Likely causes

Signal wire of sensor E chafed through and shorted to ground

Thermistor of sensor E shorted internally

Actual severe overheating of the converter, e.g. coolant loss

Symptoms

MIL and hybrid or charging warning on
Converter switched off or strongly limited immediately after start
Low 12 V voltage message on longer drives

Repair estimate

DifficultyShop_onlyWorkshop job

Parts and labour€100–2,500

Time0.5–5 h

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

Parts involved

dcdc converter temp sensor ewiring harnessdcdc converter

Related codes

P2CA5 P2CA7 P2CA8 P2CAA P2C8E P0E5A

References: law.cornell.edu, patents.google.com, static.nhtsa.gov.