P0BD1 code meaning
Drive Motor Inverter Temperature Sensor C Circuit
Powertrain system Generic code P0Bxx codes Check engine light
What P0BD1 means
Which thermistor is called sensor C depends on the maker. In GM's hybrid tables it is the second sensor of the motor A inverter: the phase V sensor in the 2016 to 2019 tables, labelled temperature sensor 2 in the Volt and ELR. P0BD1 is its general circuit code for an electrical fault that is not classified as low, high or erratic. No manufacturer documents this exact code publicly; GM reports only the specific siblings P0BD2, P0BD3 and P0BD4. CARB requires hybrid sensor circuits to be monitored. Without a valid value the controller cannot protect that phase and normally limits motor torque. The sensor sits inside the inverter, so repairs often mean replacing the assembly.
P0BD1 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor1 to 6 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P0BD1
- Hybrid system warning or check engine lamp
- Reduced electric drive power
- Possible loss of electric drive
Common causes of P0BD1
- Most likelyInternal fault of the sensor inside the power inverter module
- PossibleCorroded or loose connector at the inverter module
- Less likelySoftware fault in the motor control processor
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Drive motor inverter temp sensor cWiring harnessHybrid control module
What each part of P0BD1 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| B | Area: hybrid propulsion. |
| D1 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0BD1 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 P0BD1
What does P0BD1 mean?
P0BD1 means "Drive Motor Inverter Temperature Sensor C Circuit". Which thermistor is called sensor C depends on the maker. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0BD1?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0BD1 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0BD1 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0BD1 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 P0BD1 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1 to 6 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0BD1 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.