P0BDB code meaning
Drive Motor Inverter Temperature Sensor E Circuit
Powertrain system Generic code P0Bxx codes Check engine light
What P0BDB means
Which thermistor counts as inverter temperature sensor E is set by the manufacturer. In GM's hybrid tables it is the third sensor of the motor A inverter (PIM sensor #3), assigned to phase W in the 2016 to 2019 tables. P0BDB is the general circuit code for an electrical fault that is not classed as low, high or erratic. No manufacturer documents this exact code publicly; GM uses only the siblings P0BDC, P0BDD and P0BDE. CARB requires hybrid sensor circuits to be monitored for circuit faults. Without a valid reading the controller cannot protect the phase W power switches and usually limits motor torque. The sensor is built into the inverter, so the repair is often the inverter assembly.
P0BDB 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 P0BDB
- Malfunction indicator lamp or hybrid system warning
- Reduced electric drive power
- Further inverter temperature codes stored at the same time
Common causes of P0BDB
- Most likelyInternal fault of the thermistor or its circuit 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 eWiring harnessHybrid control module
What each part of P0BDB 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. |
| DB | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0BDB 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 P0BDB
What does P0BDB mean?
P0BDB means "Drive Motor Inverter Temperature Sensor E Circuit". Which thermistor counts as inverter temperature sensor E is set by the manufacturer. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0BDB?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0BDB the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0BDB fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0BDB 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 P0BDB to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1 to 6 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0BDB clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.