P0CA6 code meaning
Hybrid/EV Battery Charging Current High
Powertrain system Generic code P0Cxx codes Check engine light
What P0CA6 means
P0CA6 flags a current into the traction battery that exceeds what the control system expects. Mitsubishi's Outlander PHEV (2018 and 2022) stores it in the PHEV-ECU when, in charging mode, the measured battery current stays above the calculated charger output request for 5 s; suspects are the BMU, the onboard charger/DC-DC converter and the PHEV-ECU, and the repair is confirmed with drive cycle pattern 7. Stellantis sees the code in the battery pack control module (BPCM): a 2023 STAR case for the Wrangler 4xe points to BPCM software, and bulletin 08-025-25 for the 2025 Dodge Charger EV brings charging-related changes against false P0CA6 entries, there combined with P167B and no Drive Ready. P0CA7 is the discharging counterpart.
P0CA6 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor0.5 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P0CA6
- Check-engine lamp, often found after charging
- Charging interrupted or not possible
- Vehicle not entering ready mode on some EVs
Common causes of P0CA6
- Most likelyBattery control module software (Stellantis S2308000117, 08-025-25)
- PossibleOnboard charger or DC-DC converter delivering more current than requested
- PossiblePack current sensor or battery management unit reading wrongly
- Less likelyFault in the hybrid/PHEV control unit
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Hv batteryBms
What each part of P0CA6 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| C | Area: hybrid propulsion. |
| A6 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0CA6 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 P0CA6
What does P0CA6 mean?
P0CA6 means "Hybrid/EV Battery Charging Current High". P0CA6 flags a current into the traction battery that exceeds what the control system expects. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0CA6?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0CA6 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0CA6 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0CA6 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 P0CA6 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0CA6 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.