P0A20 code meaning
Motor Torque Sensor Circuit High
Powertrain system Generic code P0Axx codes Check engine light
What P0A20 means
This code covers the upper electrical limit of a torque sensor fitted to the traction motor shaft, for example the magnetostrictive design inside a hollow output shaft described in a Honda patent. The control unit sets P0A20 when the sensor voltage remains above the valid range for a calibrated time, which points to a short to the supply voltage, an open ground return or a sensor output stuck high. No manufacturer documents P0A20 publicly; CARB requires an approved drive motor monitor. Siblings: P0A19 low, P0A18 implausible torque, P0A21 intermittent, P0A17 general circuit. Expect a hybrid warning and limited electric torque.
P0A20 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor1 to 8 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0A20
- Hybrid system warning light
- Electric drive torque limited
- Reduced acceleration in electric mode
Common causes of P0A20
- Most likelySignal line shorted to sensor supply or battery voltage
- PossibleOpen sensor ground return
- Less likelySensor electronics output stuck high
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Motor torque sensorWiring harnessHybrid control module
What each part of P0A20 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| A | Area: hybrid propulsion. |
| 20 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0A20 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 P0A20
What does P0A20 mean?
P0A20 means "Motor Torque Sensor Circuit High". This code covers the upper electrical limit of a torque sensor fitted to the traction motor shaft, for example the magnetostrictive design inside a hollow output shaft described in a Honda patent. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0A20?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0A20 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0A20 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0A20 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P0A20 to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 1 to 8 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0A20 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.