P0BFE code meaning
Drive Motor B Phase U-V-W Current Sensor Correlation
Powertrain system Generic code P0Bxx codes Check engine light
What P0BFE means
P0BFE applies the phase balance test to drive motor B: the controller adds the U, V and W current readings, which should cancel out, and sets the code when the absolute sum stays above a limit. GM uses 156 A on the 2011 Volt and 110 A on the 2012 and 2013 two-mode trucks (Type A, one trip, main relay closed) and 110 A for 0.0032 of 0.0038 s in the 2016 and 2019 tables (Type A). It catches a sensor that reads wrong while each signal alone stays in range, unlike the per-phase codes P0BF2 to P0BFC. GM's single-motor eAssist has no such code. Jeep lists P0BFE on the 2020 Renegade and Compass 1.3 PHEV (EMEA) with the turtle and Service 4WD lights; reprogramming the hybrid processors is the fix.
P0BFE at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor0.5 to 6 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0BFE
- Malfunction indicator lamp and hybrid warning
- Turtle (limp home) light and Service 4WD light (Jeep)
- Reduced power from drive motor B
Common causes of P0BFE
- Most likelyHybrid control processor software (Jeep bulletin 08-056-21/08-057-21)
- PossibleOne motor B phase current sensor reading wrong but still within its own limits
- PossibleFaulty current sensing electronics in the power inverter module
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 u current sensorDrive motor b phase v current sensorDrive motor b phase w current sensor
What each part of P0BFE 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. |
| FE | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0BFE 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 P0BFE
What does P0BFE mean?
P0BFE means "Drive Motor B Phase U-V-W Current Sensor Correlation". P0BFE applies the phase balance test to drive motor B: the controller adds the U, V and W current readings, which should cancel out, and sets the code when the absolute sum stays above a limit. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0BFE?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0BFE the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0BFE fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0BFE 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 P0BFE to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 6 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0BFE clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.