P0D39 code meaning
Battery Charger A Input Current Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P0Dxx codes Check engine light
What P0D39 means
P0D39 flags an implausible reading from the sensor that measures alternating current at the input of charger A, the on-board charger. Both documented users test its zero point. GM's charger module in the 2011 Volt sets the code as a Type A fault with MIL when the current value sits 5.4 A or more away from zero for 512 of 640 ms although no current should flow; the 2016 ELR table uses 1.4 A. Mitsubishi's 2022 Outlander PHEV logs it when 1.5 A or more is seen for 2 s while the PHEV-ECU has not released charging, then stops charging and calls for a new charger/DC-DC unit. Hard electrical faults of the same sensor are P0D3A and P0D3B, the general circuit code is P0D38. The car still drives, but AC charging is blocked.
P0D39 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor0.5 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0D39
- AC charging does not start
- MIL on (GM)
- Charging fault shown at the charge port or in the cluster
Common causes of P0D39
- Most likelyZero point of the current sensor inside the charger has drifted
- PossibleMeasuring electronics of the on-board charger failed
- Less likelyCharger calibration out of date
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Battery charger a input current sensorOn board charger
What each part of P0D39 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 39 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0D39 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 P0D39
What does P0D39 mean?
P0D39 means "Battery Charger A Input Current Sensor Circuit Range/Performance". P0D39 flags an implausible reading from the sensor that measures alternating current at the input of charger A, the on-board charger. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0D39?
Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.
Will P0D39 fail an emissions test?
P0D39 is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is P0D39 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0D39 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.