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DTC codes / P0Exx · Hybrid propulsion / P0E40

P0E40Charge Status Indicator A Control Circuit High

P0E40 indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an abnormally high voltage on the control circuit for charge status indicator A, which is typically a lamp or display that shows the high-voltage battery's state of charge. The PCM expects a certain voltage range on the control circuit and sets this code when the signal exceeds the upper threshold, indicating a short to voltage or an open circuit.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityLow
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaHybrid propulsion

Symptoms you may notice

  • Charge status indicator lamp or display does not illuminate or shows incorrect information
  • Illumination of the check engine light or service vehicle soon message
  • No noticeable drivability issues in many cases
  • Possible warning messages related to the high-voltage battery system
  • In some vehicles, the indicator may stay on continuously or flash erratically

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Short to voltage in the charge status indicator control circuit
  2. Open circuit or high resistance in the ground path for the indicator
  3. Faulty charge status indicator lamp or display assembly
  4. Damaged wiring harness or connector at the indicator or PCM
  5. Internal failure in the PCM driver for the indicator circuit
  6. Corrosion or water intrusion in the indicator circuit connectors

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Verify the code with a scan tool and check for any related diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) in other modules
  2. Inspect the charge status indicator lamp or display for proper operation and replace if faulty
  3. Check the wiring and connectors between the PCM and the indicator for signs of damage, corrosion, or loose pins
  4. Measure voltage on the control circuit at the indicator with the key on and compare to specifications
  5. Test the ground circuit for the indicator using a multimeter to ensure less than 1 ohm resistance
  6. If the circuit tests normal, suspect an internal PCM fault and perform further diagnostics before replacement
  7. Clear the code and road test to confirm the repair

What the charge status indicator circuit really does

  • A high voltage on the control circuit often results from a short to battery voltage in the wiring, which can be caused by chafed insulation against a power wire.
  • The charge status indicator may be part of a larger display module, and a fault in that module can set this code even if the individual lamp is not serviceable separately.
  • Some vehicles use a pulse-width modulated (PWM) signal for the indicator, and a high voltage code can set if the signal is stuck at full voltage due to a driver failure.
  • A poor ground connection at the indicator can cause the PCM to see a high voltage on the control circuit because the circuit cannot complete properly.
  • This code is rarely caused by a faulty high-voltage battery itself; focus diagnostics on the low-voltage control circuit first.

Can I keep driving with P0E40?

The vehicle is generally safe to drive because this code affects only the charge status indicator and does not impair vehicle operation. However, avoid ignoring the warning light, as it may mask other issues, and have the circuit inspected soon to ensure the indicator functions correctly.

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.

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