AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P0AFA Chevrolet

P0AFA Chevrolet Code - Hybrid Battery System Voltage Low

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the correlation of the generator battery disconnect control module battery voltage and the Starter Generator Control Module (SGCM) output voltage to detect a 36 volt cable open or fuse/relay failure. Common causes include 36 volt battery cable open, Hybrid Battery Pack fuse open, Hybrid Battery Pack contactor open. 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: P0AFA Chevrolet indicates Hybrid Battery System Voltage Low.
Common causes: Common causes include 36 volt battery cable open, Hybrid Battery Pack fuse open, Hybrid Battery Pack contactor open.
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 15,912

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Dec 07, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0AFA Chevrolet Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the correlation of the generator battery disconnect control module battery voltage and the Starter Generator Control Module (SGCM) output voltage to detect a 36 volt cable open or fuse/relay failure. The ECM also monitors to detect an over voltage condition and protect the MOSFET (load dump). If either one of these conditions is detected, the appropriate Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set.

OBDII Code P0AFA Chevrolet - Hybrid Battery System Voltage Low - AutoCodes.com — P0AFA Chevrolet Code - Hybrid Battery System Voltage Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0AFA Chevrolet?

36 volt battery cable open
Hybrid Battery Pack fuse open
Hybrid Battery Pack contactor open
Hybrid Battery Pack ground cable or connection

How to Fix the DTC P0AFA Chevrolet?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

If the 1.8L engine (RPO LKN) on a 2016-2017 Malibu Hybrid model does not crank after several attempts and DTC P0AFA (Hybrid/EV Battery System Voltage Low Voltage) is set, it may be necessary to replace the high voltage battery pack.
After excessive engine crank attempts where the engine turns over but does not start, the high voltage battery pack will be drained of power, similar to draining a 12V battery in a traditional powertrain.
The high voltage battery pack stores 288V DC in eight lithium-ion battery sections. The high voltage battery pack is charged during normal vehicle driving and is maintained at or near an optimum level of charge.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0AFA Chevrolet 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.

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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.