P0AE5 code meaning
Hybrid/EV Battery Precharge Contactor A Control Circuit Range/Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P0Axx codes Check engine light
What P0AE5 means
P0AE5 reports that the precharge function works electrically but does not deliver the expected result, so the controller judges the circuit implausible. Ford documents it in special service message SSM 47129: 2013-18 C-MAX and Fusion Hybrid and Energi models and the MKZ Hybrid may not start, with P0AE5 stored in the battery energy control module. When pinpoint tests show that the DC/DC converter, the cabin coolant heater or the A/C compressor has a low internal resistance on its high-voltage side, Ford replaces only that component, not the battery junction box. A load that drags the bus down keeps the precharge from reaching its target. Open, low and high driver faults are P0AE4, P0AE6 and P0AE7.
P0AE5 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor1.5 to 6 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0AE5
- Vehicle does not start or become ready
- Red warning triangle or hybrid warning in the cluster
- Possible additional codes from the faulty high-voltage consumer
Common causes of P0AE5
- Most likelyHigh-voltage consumer with low internal resistance (DC/DC converter, coolant heater, A/C compressor)
- PossiblePrecharge resistor degraded or wrong value
- Less likelyPrecharge contactor responding slowly or with high contact resistance
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Hv battery precharge contactor aWiring harnessBms
What each part of P0AE5 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. |
| E5 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0AE5 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 P0AE5
What does P0AE5 mean?
P0AE5 means "Hybrid/EV Battery Precharge Contactor A Control Circuit Range/Performance". P0AE5 reports that the precharge function works electrically but does not deliver the expected result, so the controller judges the circuit implausible. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0AE5?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0AE5 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0AE5 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0AE5 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 P0AE5 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1.5 to 6 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0AE5 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.