C00A2 code meaning
Driveline Control Module Power Transfer Unit Control Circuit Driver
What C00A2 means
The power transfer unit sits at the front transaxle of a front-based AWD car and, on disconnecting systems, can uncouple the propshaft. AAM's EcoTrac, introduced on the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, separates the driveline at both the PTU and the rear module under command of its own control unit. In an AAM patent a power-operated actuator, for example a solenoid, moves the PTU mode collar only after the rear clutch has brought the propshaft up to speed; a Linamar patent energises a PTU coil with brief pulses of about 3 to 4 A and tracks the sleeve with a Hall or linear sensor. C00A2 means the output stage feeding that actuator reports a fault, such as overcurrent, short, open load or overtemperature, the classes that automotive driver ICs like TI's DRV8873-Q1 flag. No manufacturer publishes a C00A2 case.
C00A2 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor0.5 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of C00A2
- AWD unavailable, vehicle stays in front-wheel drive
- AWD warning lamp or message
Common causes of C00A2
- Most likelyShort to ground or battery on the PTU actuator circuit
- PossiblePTU actuator coil or motor open or internally shorted
- Less likelyDamaged output stage inside the driveline module
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Driveline modulePtu
What each part of C00A2 means
| C | Chassis system: brakes, ABS, steering and suspension. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| A2 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note C00A2 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about C00A2
What does C00A2 mean?
C00A2 means "Driveline Control Module Power Transfer Unit Control Circuit Driver". The power transfer unit sits at the front transaxle of a front-based AWD car and, on disconnecting systems, can uncouple the propshaft. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with C00A2?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With C00A2 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will C00A2 fail an emissions test?
C00A2 is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is C00A2 to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will C00A2 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.