P25A3 code meaning
Engine Hood Open
What P25A3 means
P25A3 is a state code, not a wiring fault: the hood is reported open at a moment when the control strategy expects it closed, for example while an automatic restart, a remote start or a hybrid engine pull-up is pending. No manufacturer documents P25A3 publicly. A Stellantis STAR case on hood switch 2 explains the background: the PCM reads that switch directly, cross-checks it against the latch switch state sent by the body module over CAN, and if either reads open it disables stop-start until the trip ends and blocks remote start. CARB's OBD rule cites an override of start-stop disablement as an emissions-neutral diagnostic. Circuit faults of the switch itself are P254F and P257D–P257F. A hood not fully latched or a misadjusted switch striker is the usual reason.
P25A3 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyEasy, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.1 to 1 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P25A3
- Hood open warning in the cluster
- Auto stop-start and remote start locked out
- Engine keeps running at standstill instead of stopping
Common causes of P25A3
- Most likelyHood only on the safety catch, not fully latched
- PossibleHood switch or striker misadjusted after body work
- PossibleLatch-integrated switch sticking in the open position
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Hood latchHood switch
What each part of P25A3 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 5 | Area: vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs. |
| A3 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P25A3 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 P25A3
What does P25A3 mean?
P25A3 means "Engine Hood Open". P25A3 is a state code, not a wiring fault: the hood is reported open at a moment when the control strategy expects it closed, for example while an automatic restart, a remote start or a hybrid engine pull-up is pending. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P25A3?
P25A3 does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will P25A3 fail an emissions test?
P25A3 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 P25A3 to fix?
Difficulty: easy. A typical repair takes 0.1 to 1 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P25A3 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.