A faulty control pilot switch (switch A) that is mechanically stuck closed.; Damaged or shorted wiring in the control pilot circuit, causing a permanent closed-circuit condition.; A failed charging control module that incorrectly interprets or drives the pilot signal.; Corrosion or water intrusion in the charge port connector or switch assembly.; A stuck relay or contactor in the charge circuit that keeps the pilot line energized.; Software or calibration issues in the charging control module (less common).

DTC codes / P0Cxx · Hybrid propulsion / P0CFE

P0CFEControl Pilot Charging Switch A Stuck On

Q: What does code P0CFE mean?

Control Pilot Charging Switch A Stuck On. P0CFE indicates that the control pilot circuit's charging switch A is stuck in the closed (on) position, as detected by the vehicle's charging control module. The module monitors the pilot line voltage and sees it remain in the charging state even when the switch should be open, preventing proper charge session control.

P0CFE indicates that the control pilot circuit's charging switch A is stuck in the closed (on) position, as detected by the vehicle's charging control module. The module monitors the pilot line voltage and sees it remain in the charging state even when the switch should be open, preventing proper charge session control.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyProfessional

AreaHybrid propulsion

Symptoms you may notice

Charging may not start or may stop unexpectedly during a session.
The charging indicator or dashboard warning light stays on after the vehicle is unplugged.
The vehicle may fail to recognize that the charging connector is removed.
In some cases, the vehicle may not allow the high-voltage battery to charge at all.
Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially if the stuck switch does not immediately affect charging.
Possible intermittent charging behavior depending on temperature or vibration.

Common causes, most likely first

A faulty control pilot switch (switch A) that is mechanically stuck closed.
Damaged or shorted wiring in the control pilot circuit, causing a permanent closed-circuit condition.
A failed charging control module that incorrectly interprets or drives the pilot signal.
Corrosion or water intrusion in the charge port connector or switch assembly.
A stuck relay or contactor in the charge circuit that keeps the pilot line energized.
Software or calibration issues in the charging control module (less common).

How to diagnose and fix it

Verify the code with a scan tool and check for any related charging system codes.
Inspect the charge port and control pilot switch for physical damage, corrosion, or debris.
Measure the control pilot circuit voltage and resistance according to the manufacturer's service information.
Test the control pilot switch for proper open/closed operation using a multimeter.
Check wiring harness and connectors for shorts to voltage or ground in the pilot circuit.
If the switch is faulty, replace the charge port assembly or switch as required.
Clear the code and perform a charging system test to confirm the repair.

Control pilot switch diagnosis pitfalls

A stuck control pilot switch can sometimes be caused by a foreign object or debris lodged in the charge port, so a thorough visual inspection is essential before replacing parts.
The code may set intermittently due to a marginal switch that sticks only under certain temperature or vibration conditions, making it hard to reproduce.
Some vehicles use the control pilot line for communication, and a fault in the onboard charger can mimic a stuck switch, so testing the entire pilot circuit is necessary.
After repairs, the charging control module may require a calibration or relearn procedure to properly recognize the switch state.
This code does not always mean the switch itself has failed; wiring issues or module faults are common misdiagnosis traps.

Can I keep driving with P0CFE?

If the vehicle is a plug-in hybrid or electric, you can usually drive it using the internal combustion engine or existing battery charge, but avoid relying on charging until the fault is repaired. Continued driving is generally safe, but charging may be disabled or unreliable, so plan accordingly.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.