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DTC codes / P2Exx · Hybrid propulsion / P2E36

P2E36Battery Charger B Enable Circuit Low

P2E36 indicates that the powertrain control module has detected a low-voltage condition on the enable circuit for the battery charger, which is typically part of a hybrid or electric vehicle's charging system. The circuit is commanded on but the feedback signal remains below the expected threshold, suggesting an open circuit, short to ground, or faulty component.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyProfessional
AreaHybrid propulsion

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illumination of the check engine light or service vehicle soon message
  • The vehicle may fail to initiate or complete a charging session
  • A warning message on the dash indicating a charging system fault
  • Reduced electric driving range or inability to charge the high-voltage battery
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially if the fault is intermittent

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Open or high-resistance wiring in the battery charger enable circuit
  2. Short to ground in the enable circuit wiring
  3. Faulty battery charger enable relay or switch
  4. Defective battery charger assembly
  5. Corroded or loose electrical connectors at the charger or control module
  6. Internal failure in the powertrain control module affecting the enable output

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Perform a visual inspection of the battery charger wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion
  2. Use a scan tool to command the charger enable circuit on and off while monitoring the feedback parameter
  3. Check for continuity and resistance in the enable circuit between the control module and the charger
  4. Test the enable relay or switch for proper operation and replace if faulty
  5. Inspect and test the battery charger assembly according to manufacturer procedures
  6. Verify power and ground supplies to the charger and control module
  7. If all external circuits test good, follow diagnostic flowcharts to determine if the charger or control module requires replacement

Enable circuit faults often misdiagnosed

  • A low enable circuit code can be set by a simple loose connector at the charger, which is often overlooked during diagnosis.
  • The code may appear only intermittently, making it essential to check for poor pin tension and wire chafing that only act up under vibration.
  • Do not assume the charger itself is defective; the enable circuit is a low-current control path, and wiring faults are more common than charger failures.
  • On some vehicles, the enable signal is shared with other charging components, so a fault in a related module can trigger this code.
  • Always verify the control module's ability to command the circuit on before condemning the charger, as a failed output driver can mimic a wiring fault.

Can I keep driving with P2E36?

If the vehicle is a plug-in hybrid or electric model and charging is affected, avoid long trips that rely on the high-voltage battery until repaired. The vehicle may still be driveable using the internal combustion engine, but reduced electric range and potential charging failure should be addressed promptly.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

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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