AutoCodes – Ford – P163A Ford

P163A Ford Code - Secondary Generator Control Circuit

Quick Answer

With the engine running, the charging system warning indicator is off. Common causes include Faulty Generator (Alternator), Generator harness is open or shorted, Generator circuit poor electrical connection. 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: P163A Ford indicates Secondary Generator Control Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Generator (Alternator), Generator harness is open or shorted, Generator circuit poor electrical connection.
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 10,097

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 Aug 17, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P163A Ford Description

With the engine running, the charging system warning indicator is off. The circuit from the battery B+ to the generator regulator is 13-15 volts. This voltage feedback is used by the regulator to maintain the battery voltage at the desired set-point. The S (stator) circuit (internal to the generator) is used to monitor generator operation. This circuit and other regulator internal conditions are checked by the regulator to allow the PCM to turn off the charging system warning indicator by sending a message over the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus to the Instrument Cluster (IC). The positive battery output (B+) circuit is the generator output supplied to the battery and electrical system. For dual generator systems, these circuits are duplicated. Both generator regulators send a signal to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to allow the PCM to turn off the charging system warning indicator. In dual generator systems, the PCM keeps the secondary generator in a standby state where it does not generate current unless the primary generator is generating full power and more current is needed to support the vehicle loads. This may make it appear that the secondary generator is not working when vehicle loads are not large. It is important to note that a normal operational state of the charging system is for the secondary generator to not produce current.

OBDII Code P163A Ford - Secondary Generator Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P163A Ford Code - Secondary Generator Control Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P163A Ford?

Faulty Generator (Alternator)
Generator harness is open or shorted
Generator circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P163A Ford?

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 P163A Ford 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.

Frequently Asked Questions about P163A Ford Code

1. What does the OBDII code P163A mean on a Ford?

P163A indicates an issue with the secondary generator control circuit, typically related to the electrical system responsible for managing a secondary alternator or generator.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P163A code on a Ford vehicle?

Symptoms may include a warning light on the dashboard, reduced charging system performance, dim headlights, or issues with battery charging.

3. What causes the P163A code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty secondary alternator, damaged wiring or connectors in the control circuit, a failed voltage regulator, or issues with the vehicle's PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

4. Can a bad battery cause the P163A code?

While a weak or failing battery can exacerbate electrical problems, the P163A code specifically points to a malfunction in the secondary generator control circuit, not the battery itself.

5. How do I diagnose the P163A code on a Ford?

Start by checking the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion in the secondary generator circuit. Then test the secondary alternator and voltage regulator. A professional scan tool can be used to verify PCM operation.

6. Can I drive my Ford with a P163A code?

Itâ€™s not recommended, as this code can lead to charging system failure, which may cause the vehicle to lose power or stall unexpectedly.

7. How do I fix a P163A code on my Ford vehicle?

Repairs may include replacing a faulty secondary alternator, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connections, or reprogramming or replacing the PCM if necessary.

8. Do I need to replace the PCM for a P163A code?

PCM replacement is rare and typically a last resort. It should only be considered after all other components in the secondary generator control circuit have been inspected and tested.

9. How much does it cost to repair a P163A code?

The cost varies depending on the exact cause. Minor wiring repairs might cost under $100, while alternator replacement or PCM repairs could range from $300 to $1,000 or more.

10. Can a P163A code clear itself?

If the issue is intermittent, the code may clear temporarily, but itâ€™s unlikely to resolve without addressing the underlying problem. Proper diagnosis and repair are recommended.