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P0A90 Cadillac Code - Drive Motor Performance

Quick Answer

The generator control module also called the starter generator control module is comprised of the following three control modules; the hybrid powertrain control module, 14 volt power module and the drive motor control module. Common causes include Inspect the drive belt for cracks, wear and contamination, Faulty Starter Generator, Starter Generator harness is open or shorted. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0A90 Cadillac indicates Drive Motor Performance.
Common causes
Common causes include Inspect the drive belt for cracks, wear and contamination, Faulty Starter Generator, Starter Generator harness is open or shorted.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code Popularity 604
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Nov 20, 2019
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Code P0A90 Cadillac Description

The generator control module also called the starter generator control module is comprised of the following three control modules; the hybrid powertrain control module, 14 volt power module and the drive motor control module. These three control modules are non serviceable and are part of the generator control module.
The eAssist hybrid system has a starter generator also called a drive motor. The starter generator is mounted to the front of the engine and is mechanically connected to the crankshaft pulley by a serpentine belt.
The hybrid powertrain control module receives an engine RPM signal over serial data and compares that value to the starter generator rpm received from the drive motor control module. The hybrid powertrain control module uses a ratio of these two speeds to determine if the drive belt is missing or slipping.
OBDII Code P0A90 Cadillac - Drive Motor Performance - AutoCodes.com
P0A90 Cadillac Code - Drive Motor Performance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0A90 Cadillac?

  • Inspect the drive belt for cracks, wear and contamination
  • Faulty Starter Generator
  • Starter Generator harness is open or shorted
  • Starter Generator circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0A90 Cadillac?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0A90 Cadillac code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0A90 Cadillac code?

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0A90 Cadillac Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0A90 on a Cadillac mean?

P0A90 indicates an issue with the performance of the drive motor, typically found in hybrid or electric Cadillacs. It signals that the motor isn't operating as efficiently as expected.

2. What are common symptoms of the P0A90 code in a Cadillac?

Symptoms may include reduced power or acceleration, an illuminated check engine light, poor fuel efficiency, or unusual noises from the hybrid drive system.

3. What causes the P0A90 code on a Cadillac?

Common causes include a malfunctioning drive motor, issues with the inverter or motor controller, low or contaminated hybrid battery coolant, or damaged wiring in the drive motor system.

4. Can I drive my Cadillac with the P0A90 code active?

Driving with the P0A90 code is not recommended, as it could lead to further damage to the drive motor or hybrid system, potentially resulting in costly repairs.

5. How is the P0A90 code diagnosed on a Cadillac?

A technician will use a scan tool to retrieve the code, check related hybrid system data, inspect the drive motor and its wiring, and test the inverter and motor control module for proper operation.

6. What repairs might fix the P0A90 code on a Cadillac?

Repairs could include replacing the drive motor, repairing or replacing faulty wiring, servicing the hybrid battery coolant system, or replacing the inverter or motor controller.

7. How much does it cost to repair the P0A90 code on a Cadillac?

Repair costs can vary widely depending on the specific issue but could range from $200 for minor wiring repairs to over $3,000 for drive motor or inverter replacements.

8. Can low hybrid battery coolant cause the P0A90 code on a Cadillac?

Yes, low or contaminated hybrid battery coolant can cause overheating, which may trigger the P0A90 code.

9. How can I prevent the P0A90 code from appearing on my Cadillac?

Regular maintenance, including checking the hybrid cooling system, inspecting wiring, and updating software for the hybrid system, can help prevent this issue.

10. Does the P0A90 code require specialized tools to fix?

Yes, diagnosing and repairing the P0A90 code often requires specialized diagnostic tools and knowledge of hybrid drive systems, so it's best handled by a qualified technician.

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