P0D72 code meaning
A/C Compressor Control Module Internal Temperature Sensor A Circuit High
Powertrain system Generic code P0Dxx codes Check engine light
What P0D72 means
P0D72 is the high-signal circuit code for the compressor module's internal temperature sensor. With the usual NTC thermistor a high signal means the reading looks extremely cold, and that is how GM defines it: every Volt and ELR table from 2011 to 2019 sets it when the reported CPU temperature is below −40 °C. Timing is 30 of 60 samples at 50 ms in the first-generation Volt, 40 of 50 at 100 ms in 2016 and 4 of 5 s in 2019, each Type B with MIL after two trips; the older tables only check with outside air above −7 °C. In the J2012 list this High code comes before the Low code P0D73. Typical cause is an open sensor path or a cracked solder joint on the compressor board, so the assembly is usually replaced.
P0D72 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor1 to 5 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P0D72
- Check engine light after two trips
- Air conditioning limited or switched off
Common causes of P0D72
- Most likelyOpen circuit in the internal temperature sensor path
- PossibleCracked solder joint on the compressor electronics board
- Less likelyFaulty value transmission to the host controller
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Ac compressor cm internal temp sensor aAc compressor module
What each part of P0D72 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 72 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0D72 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 P0D72
What does P0D72 mean?
P0D72 means "A/C Compressor Control Module Internal Temperature Sensor A Circuit High". P0D72 is the high-signal circuit code for the compressor module's internal temperature sensor. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0D72?
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 P0D72 fail an emissions test?
P0D72 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 P0D72 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1 to 5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0D72 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.