P0EEF code meaning
Drive Motor A Control Module Overtemperature
Powertrain system Generic code P0Exx codes Check engine light
What P0EEF means
P0EEF reports that the control module of drive motor A, the inverter electronics that switch the motor phases, has run too hot. The temperature reading itself is considered valid; faults of the inverter temperature sensors, such as P0AEF, are separate codes. No manufacturer documents P0EEF publicly. GM gives an idea of the limits on the 2016 Volt: its motor control processor A sets P0C11, P0C12 or P0C13 when power inverter phase U, V or W stays above 126 °C for 1.2 s within a 2 s window, rated Type A with the MIL after one trip. CARB demands that hybrid systems monitor electric motor performance. Low coolant in the electronics loop, a weak coolant pump, trapped air or long heavy load in hot weather heat the module, which then reduces motor torque to protect itself.
P0EEF at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor0.5 to 5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0EEF
- Reduced drive power or hybrid system warning
- MIL on (manufacturer-dependent)
- Electric drive switched off until the module cools
Common causes of P0EEF
- Most likelyLow coolant level or air in the power electronics cooling loop
- PossibleElectronics coolant pump weak or failed
- PossibleLong full-load operation such as towing or climbing in high ambient heat
- Less likelyDegraded power semiconductors or thermal interface inside the module
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Drive motor a control moduleInverterCooling system
What each part of P0EEF means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| EF | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0EEF 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 P0EEF
What does P0EEF mean?
P0EEF means "Drive Motor A Control Module Overtemperature". P0EEF reports that the control module of drive motor A, the inverter electronics that switch the motor phases, has run too hot. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0EEF?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0EEF the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0EEF fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0EEF 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 P0EEF to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0EEF clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.