P0EAF code meaning
A/C Compressor Motor Current Sensor Circuit Low
What P0EAF means
P0EAF reports that the compressor current signal sits at the bottom of its measuring range. In a running compressor this cannot be true, so the module suspects the measuring chain: a grounded signal path, a sensing chip without supply or an offset error inside the power module. No manufacturer documents P0EAF publicly. GM's 2011 Volt supervises the measured current only against upper limits (27 A over 30 of 60 samples for P0D6F, 60 A on a single sample for a maker code), and Audi documents only the plausibility sibling P0EAE. Without a valid current value the controller cannot protect the inverter, so it shuts the compressor down. Air conditioning stops working while the car itself remains fully drivable. The high counterpart is P0EB0.
P0EAF at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor1 to 5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0EAF
- Compressor shut down, warm air from the vents
- Climate system fault message
Common causes of P0EAF
- PossibleCurrent signal path shorted to ground
- PossibleCurrent sensor without supply voltage
- PossibleOffset error of the measurement in the power module
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Ac compressor motor current sensorAc compressor moduleWiring harness
What each part of P0EAF means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| AF | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0EAF 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 P0EAF
What does P0EAF mean?
P0EAF means "A/C Compressor Motor Current Sensor Circuit Low". P0EAF reports that the compressor current signal sits at the bottom of its measuring range. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0EAF?
P0EAF does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will P0EAF fail an emissions test?
P0EAF 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 P0EAF to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1 to 5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0EAF clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.