P0DF5 code meaning
Generator Inverter Temperature Sensor B Circuit Low
Powertrain system Generic code P0Dxx codes Check engine light
What P0DF5 means
P0DF5 sets when the signal voltage of generator inverter temperature sensor B stays below its valid window. Mitsubishi's Outlander PHEV checks this continuously: if the V-phase high-side IGBT sensor reads at most 1.25 V during 0.08 s while the generator control unit has at least 8 V supply, P0DF5-00 is stored. Mitsubishi does not say which temperature this means, but with a thermistor whose resistance falls as it warms, a low voltage looks like an extremely hot switch, the usual picture of a short to ground or a shorted element. The guided repair ends with a new power drive unit because the sensor is internal. Expect reduced generator power while the fault is present. The high case is P0DF6, an implausible in-range value P0DF4.
P0DF5 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor0.5 to 5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0DF5
- Engine or hybrid warning light on
- Generator output limited, engine runs more often
- Displayed inverter temperature implausibly high
Common causes of P0DF5
- PossibleSignal line shorted to ground
- PossibleShorted thermistor inside the IGBT module
- PossibleInternal fault of the power drive unit
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Generator inverter temp sensor bWiring harnessHybrid control module
What each part of P0DF5 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| F5 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0DF5 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 P0DF5
What does P0DF5 mean?
P0DF5 means "Generator Inverter Temperature Sensor B Circuit Low". P0DF5 sets when the signal voltage of generator inverter temperature sensor B stays below its valid window. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0DF5?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0DF5 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0DF5 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0DF5 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 P0DF5 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0DF5 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.