P0D3C code meaning
Battery Charger A Input Current Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic
What P0D3C means
P0D3C covers a charger A input current signal that drops out or jumps for short moments instead of staying wrong. No manufacturer documents this code publicly; GM's Volt and Mitsubishi's Outlander PHEV, which use the neighbouring codes P0D39-P0D3B, list no intermittent variant. Under CARB's comprehensive component rules a sensor input must be checked for circuit faults and implausible values, and a sporadic signal is one form of that. Likely triggers are a loose plug or a failing measuring element inside the on-board charger, where Mitsubishi locates the sensor and replaces the whole unit. Because the charger cannot regulate its intake on an unstable current value, charging may stop at random; driving is not affected.
P0D3C at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- 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 P0D3C
- Charging stops at random and may restart
- Charge sessions take longer than usual
Common causes of P0D3C
- PossibleLoose or corroded connector at the on-board charger
- PossibleCurrent measuring element inside the charger failing
- Less likelyCharger software fault
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 sensorWiring harnessOn board charger
What each part of P0D3C means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 3C | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0D3C 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 P0D3C
What does P0D3C mean?
P0D3C means "Battery Charger A Input Current Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic". P0D3C covers a charger A input current signal that drops out or jumps for short moments instead of staying wrong. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0D3C?
P0D3C does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will P0D3C fail an emissions test?
P0D3C 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 P0D3C to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0D3C clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.