Faulty input current sensor or sensor wiring; Open or short circuit in the sensor circuit (wiring or connectors); Poor electrical connection at the sensor or control module; Failed battery charger assembly; Powertrain control module software or internal fault; Corrosion or water intrusion in the sensor connector

DTC codes / P0Dxx · Hybrid propulsion / P0D38

P0D38Battery Charger A Input Current Sensor Circuit

Q: What does code P0D38 mean?

Battery Charger A Input Current Sensor Circuit. P0D38 indicates that the powertrain control module has detected an abnormal signal from the battery charger's input current sensor circuit, which monitors the current flowing into the charger from the battery. The computer compares this signal against expected values and sets the code when the voltage or current reading falls outside the programmed range for a calibrated time.

P0D38 indicates that the powertrain control module has detected an abnormal signal from the battery charger's input current sensor circuit, which monitors the current flowing into the charger from the battery. The computer compares this signal against expected values and sets the code when the voltage or current reading falls outside the programmed range for a calibrated time.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaHybrid propulsion

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the check engine light or service vehicle soon message
Often no symptoms besides the warning light
Battery charger may fail to initiate charging or stop charging unexpectedly
Reduced charging performance or intermittent charging
Possible battery drain or low battery warning if the charger is not functioning
Other charging system related codes may be present

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty input current sensor or sensor wiring
Open or short circuit in the sensor circuit (wiring or connectors)
Poor electrical connection at the sensor or control module
Failed battery charger assembly
Powertrain control module software or internal fault
Corrosion or water intrusion in the sensor connector

How to diagnose and fix it

Perform a visual inspection of the sensor, wiring, and connectors for damage or corrosion
Check for technical service bulletins or software updates for the vehicle
Use a scan tool to view live data from the input current sensor and compare with actual current
Measure resistance and voltage on the sensor circuit to check for opens or shorts
Test the sensor with a multimeter or oscilloscope according to manufacturer specifications
Replace the input current sensor if faulty
If the sensor and wiring are good, diagnose the battery charger assembly and control module

Input current sensor circuit pitfalls

A common mistake is replacing the battery charger when the actual fault is a chafed wire or corroded connector in the sensor circuit.
The code can be set by a weak or failing 12-volt battery that causes erratic sensor readings, so always load-test the battery first.
Some vehicles require a relearn or calibration procedure after sensor replacement, which if skipped will cause the code to return.
The input current sensor is sometimes integrated into the battery charger assembly, making it non-serviceable separately and requiring charger replacement.
Intermittent faults often occur due to vibration or temperature changes, so wiggle-test the harness while monitoring live data.

Can I keep driving with P0D38?

You can usually continue driving, but the battery charger may not function correctly, leading to a depleted battery and potential no-start condition. Avoid relying on the charger for critical trips and address the fault promptly to prevent being stranded.

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.