P0A3C code meaning
Drive Motor A Inverter Over Temperature
Powertrain system Generic code P0Axx codes Check engine light
What P0A3C means
P0A3C reports overheating of the inverter that powers drive motor A, usually measured at its IGBT power switches. Mitsubishi sets it on the 2023 Outlander PHEV when the front motor control unit reads 166 °C or more at the U-phase upper IGBT for 0.12 s; other switch positions have their own P30xx codes. Honda calls it motor control module overheating and lists it among the codes caused by a cracked solder joint in the 2012-15 Civic Hybrid motor power inverter, covered by a warranty extension. On the 2023-25 Accord Hybrid and 2025-26 Civic Hybrid, Honda links it to a PCU radiator damaged by road debris. P0A78 is the general inverter performance code, P0C11 to P0C13 are phase-specific. Power is cut to protect the inverter.
P0A3C at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor1 to 8 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0A3C
- Hybrid system warning and check engine light
- Strongly reduced drive power
- Coolant loss from the inverter circuit
Common causes of P0A3C
- Most likelyPCU or inverter radiator damaged or leaking (Honda Accord/Civic Hybrid)
- PossibleInternal inverter defect such as a cracked solder joint (Honda Civic Hybrid 2012-15)
- PossibleLow coolant or failed electric pump in the inverter cooling circuit
- Less likelyRadiator fan not running
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
InverterDrive motor aIgbt module
What each part of P0A3C 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. |
| 3C | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0A3C 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 P0A3C
What does P0A3C mean?
P0A3C means "Drive Motor A Inverter Over Temperature". P0A3C reports overheating of the inverter that powers drive motor A, usually measured at its IGBT power switches. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0A3C?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0A3C the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0A3C fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0A3C 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 P0A3C to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1 to 8 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0A3C clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.