P0A38 code meaning
Generator Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
Powertrain system Generic code P0Axx codes Check engine light
What P0A38 means
P0A38 means the generator temperature signal has fallen below the range a healthy sensor can produce. Mitsubishi sets it on the 2023 Outlander PHEV when the voltage of the generator W-phase coil sensor is 0.1 V or less for at least 0.5 s while the generator control unit has at least 8 V supply. Such a low voltage usually comes from a signal wire shorted to ground or a shorted sensor; Mitsubishi lists the power drive unit, the generator coil sensor and damaged wiring or connectors as suspects. P0A39 is the matching high fault, P0A37 the plausibility check and P0A3B a genuine over-temperature. Mitsubishi is the only manufacturer found that documents P0A38. Expect a hybrid warning and restricted generator use.
P0A38 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor1 to 6 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0A38
- Hybrid warning or check engine light
- Generator temperature shows an implausibly high fixed value
- Battery charging by the engine restricted
Common causes of P0A38
- Most likelySensor signal wire shorted to ground
- PossibleGenerator coil sensor shorted internally
- PossibleDamaged connector or harness between generator and power drive unit
- Less likelyFaulty sensor input in the power drive unit
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Generator temp sensorWiring harnessHybrid control module
What each part of P0A38 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. |
| 38 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0A38 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 P0A38
What does P0A38 mean?
P0A38 means "Generator Temperature Sensor Circuit Low". P0A38 means the generator temperature signal has fallen below the range a healthy sensor can produce. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0A38?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0A38 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0A38 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0A38 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 P0A38 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1 to 6 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0A38 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.