P0A6D code meaning
Drive Motor B Phase W Current Low
Powertrain system Generic code P0Axx codes Check engine light
What P0A6D means
P0A6D completes GM's set of open-phase tests for drive motor B with phase W. Because each phase is only judged while the rotor sits within 30 degrees of its own axis, the code points to W alone rather than to the motor as a whole. GM's tables for the 2016 Volt require a running drive, more than 50 V on the inverter in normal PWM and a squared current command above 900 A²; the 2018 tables for Volt and CT6 use 4,900 A². If the W peak stays under 9 A for 0.4 s within 0.6 s, the Type A fault turns on the MIL after one trip. Typical findings are an interrupted W lead or terminal, a non-conducting switch or a sensor reading zero. P0A6E is the high side, P0A67 and P0A6A phases U and V, P0A64 the motor A test.
P0A6D at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor1.5 to 8 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0A6D
- MIL on the first trip with propulsion warning
- Rough or reduced electric drive
Common causes of P0A6D
- Most likelyPhase W lead or terminal of motor B interrupted
- PossiblePhase W switch of the inverter not conducting
- PossiblePhase W current sensor stuck at zero
- Less likelyOpen phase W winding in motor B
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Drive motor b phase wInverter
What each part of P0A6D 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. |
| 6D | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0A6D 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 P0A6D
What does P0A6D mean?
P0A6D means "Drive Motor B Phase W Current Low". P0A6D completes GM's set of open-phase tests for drive motor B with phase W. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0A6D?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0A6D the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0A6D fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0A6D 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 P0A6D to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1.5 to 8 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0A6D clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.