Fault code P0A2D is called “Drive Motor “A” Temperature Sensor Circuit High” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P0A2D
OBD-II fault code P0A2D is a generic fault code that is defined as “Traction Motor Temperature Sensor ‘A’ High”. In this case, the error indicates the specific circuit with which the problem occurred.
An electric traction motor is installed on electric vehicles and hybrid cars. In hybrid vehicles, the electric motor works in tandem with the internal combustion engine.
Depending on the chosen mode of operation and vehicle layout, the electric motor, the gasoline engine, or two engines are switched on simultaneously. This is accomplished by a circuit in the control module that estimates the power needed at a given time.
To maintain normal operation, the electric motor must operate within certain temperature limits. These parameters are monitored by temperature sensors installed in the traction motor.
This fault in the vehicle is related to the traction motor temperature sensor “A” circuit. When the PCM control module detects a high signal level in the motor temperature sensor circuit, code P0A2D will be set.
This code applies to cars with hybrid drive, it is not used on cars with conventional engines.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P0A2D has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- The “Check engine” control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be stored in the memory as a fault).
- The Hybrid Vehicle Malfunction Check lamp illuminates.
- The traction motor may not operate.
When error P0A2D appears, the traction motor may not work, so this code should be considered serious. It is better to correct this error as soon as possible.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P0A2D can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- The traction motor temperature sensor has failed.
- Open or short circuit in wiring harness.
- Loose or damaged connectors.
- Poor grounding is a common cause.
- Blown fuse or fusible link.
- Traction motor is defective.
- Sometimes faulty PCM module or programming error is the cause.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P0A2D
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P0A2D:
- Read all stored data and error codes with an OBD-II scan tool. To find out when and under what circumstances error P0A2D appeared.
- Clear the error codes from the computer memory and test-drive the vehicle to find out if the malfunction appears again.
- If the error code appears again, visually inspect the electrical wires and connectors.
- If necessary, repair or replace any defective wires and connections.
- Check the traction motor temperature sensor.
- The traction motor temperature sensor is often built into the winding, so if it is defective, you will have to replace it with the winding.
- If there are no defects, check the PCM itself and its program part.
Diagnose and repair of problems
When a P0A2D fault code occurs, other errors may sometimes be present. Associated codes usually refer to abnormal system voltages. And also to performance range mismatch codes, which may refer to various sensors.
If no additional codes are present, visually inspect all wiring associated with the traction motor temperature sensor. If necessary, repair or replace to ensure effective load transfer.
If there are no visible signs of shorts or other damage, use a voltmeter to check resistance and ground. Replace if necessary to ensure that all electrical values are within the manufacturer’s specified limits.
If all wiring is checked, check the traction motor temperature sensor itself with a multimeter. If the cause of error P0A2D turns out to be in it, it will be expensive to repair, because the sensor is often built into the winding of the motor-generator.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P0A2D can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Hyundai
- Kia
- Lexus (400h, 450h)
- Toyota (Camry, Prius)
Fault code P0A2D can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P0A2A, P0A2B, P0A2C, P0A2E, P0A2F.
