P0A94 code meaning
DC/DC Converter A Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P0Axx codes Check engine light
What P0A94 means
P0A94 reports that a DC/DC converter in the high-voltage system does not perform as commanded. In Toyota hybrids this is the boost converter inside the inverter assembly, which raises the battery voltage before it reaches the motor inverters. Toyota documents P0A94 for 2010–2015 Prius and 2012–2017 Prius v together with P0A1A, P324E and P3004 (bulletin T-SB-0003-21): the cause is damage in the inverter with converter, and the repair depends on the detail code. Recalls 14V-053 and 18V-684 address transistors in the intelligent power module that could overheat; the car then enters a fail-safe mode with reduced power. Not to be confused with the 14 V power module codes P0A86 to P0A8F.
P0A94 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 P0A94
- MIL, hybrid system and other warning lamps
- Fail-safe mode with greatly reduced power
- Vehicle may stop and not restart
Common causes of P0A94
- Most likelyDamaged power transistors in the boost converter / inverter assembly
- PossibleThermal stress from insufficient inverter cooling
- PossibleOutstanding recall or software update not performed
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Dcdc converter
What each part of P0A94 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. |
| 94 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0A94 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 P0A94
What does P0A94 mean?
P0A94 means "DC/DC Converter A Performance". P0A94 reports that a DC/DC converter in the high-voltage system does not perform as commanded. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0A94?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0A94 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0A94 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0A94 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 P0A94 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1 to 6 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0A94 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.