A faulty internal temperature sensor inside the A/C compressor control module.; Damaged or corroded wiring between the sensor and the control module, causing an open circuit or high resistance.; A poor electrical connection at the control module harness connector, leading to a high voltage drop.; A short to voltage on the sensor signal circuit, which can falsely raise the voltage reading.; A failed A/C compressor control module, even if the sensor itself is good.; Extreme underhood temperatures or a missing heat shield that overheats the module and skews the sensor signal.; Water intrusion into the control module connector, causing corrosion and high resistance.

DTC codes / P0Dxx · Hybrid propulsion / P0D72

P0D72A/C Compressor Control Module Internal Temperature Sensor A Circuit High

P0D72 indicates that the air conditioning (A/C) compressor control module has detected an abnormally high voltage signal from its internal temperature sensor A circuit. The module interprets this high voltage as an excessively high temperature reading, which may cause it to disable the compressor to prevent damage. This code is specific to vehicles with a separately housed compressor control module that monitors its own internal temperature.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaHybrid propulsion

Symptoms you may notice

The A/C system may stop cooling entirely or blow only warm air.
The climate control panel may show a flashing or steady A/C warning light.
The compressor clutch may fail to engage, even when A/C is requested.
In some cases, the only sign is an illuminated check engine light with no noticeable performance change.
The A/C may work intermittently, cutting out after brief operation.
The blower fan may continue to run normally, but the air is not chilled.

Common causes, most likely first

A faulty internal temperature sensor inside the A/C compressor control module.
Damaged or corroded wiring between the sensor and the control module, causing an open circuit or high resistance.
A poor electrical connection at the control module harness connector, leading to a high voltage drop.
A short to voltage on the sensor signal circuit, which can falsely raise the voltage reading.
A failed A/C compressor control module, even if the sensor itself is good.
Extreme underhood temperatures or a missing heat shield that overheats the module and skews the sensor signal.
Water intrusion into the control module connector, causing corrosion and high resistance.

How to diagnose and fix it

Verify the code with a scan tool and check for any related A/C system codes before proceeding.
Inspect the A/C compressor control module harness and connector for corrosion, loose pins, or damaged wires.
Measure the sensor signal voltage at the control module connector and compare it to the manufacturer's specification.
Test the internal temperature sensor resistance (if accessible) and compare it to a known-good value or temperature chart.
Check for a short to voltage on the sensor signal circuit by disconnecting the module and measuring voltage with the key on.
If the sensor is faulty and serviceable, replace it; otherwise, replace the A/C compressor control module and perform any required programming.
Clear the code and verify the A/C system operates correctly through several drive cycles.

When the sensor is not the real culprit

A high voltage reading on the sensor circuit often comes from a poor ground connection at the control module rather than a failed sensor, so always check grounds before condemning parts.
The internal temperature sensor is sometimes integrated into the control module and cannot be replaced separately, making module replacement the only fix if the sensor fails.
A short to voltage on the signal wire can be caused by chafed wiring near hot exhaust components, which is easy to overlook during a visual inspection.
This code can set intermittently due to heat soak after the engine is shut off, so a road test with the A/C on may be needed to reproduce the fault.
Some vehicles use the same sensor signal for multiple functions, so a high reading may also affect compressor clutch engagement logic and cause unrelated A/C performance complaints.

Can I keep driving with P0D72?

You can typically continue driving with this code because it mainly affects A/C performance and does not compromise engine safety. Avoid using the A/C until the fault is repaired, as continued operation with a faulty temperature reading may lead to compressor damage or unnecessary wear on the A/C system.

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.