AutoCodes – Ford – P163B Ford

P163B Ford Code - Secondary Generator Control Circuit Range/Performance

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: P163B Ford indicates Secondary Generator Control Circuit Range/Performance.
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 3,323

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 Jan 05, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P163B 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 P163B Ford - Secondary Generator Control Circuit Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com — P163B Ford Code - Secondary Generator Control Circuit Range/Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P163B 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 P163B 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 P163B 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 P163B Ford Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P163B in a Ford vehicle?

- Common symptoms include poor generator performance, battery charging issues, and illumination of the battery warning light on the dashboard.

2. What can cause the OBDII code P163B to trigger in a Ford vehicle?

- The code P163B is typically triggered by issues with the secondary generator control circuit, such as wiring faults, damaged connectors, or a faulty generator control module.

3. How serious is the OBDII code P163B in a Ford vehicle?

- While the vehicle may still be operational with this code, it is important to address the underlying issue promptly to prevent further damage to the charging system and ensure reliable operation.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P163B in my Ford vehicle?

- Diagnosis typically involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the trouble code, inspecting the secondary generator control circuit components, and testing the generator control module.

5. Can I continue driving my Ford vehicle with the OBDII code P163B present?

- It is not recommended to ignore the code and continue driving, as it can lead to battery drain, stalling, or other electrical issues that may leave you stranded.

6. What are some repair tips for fixing the OBDII code P163B in a Ford vehicle?

- Repair tips may include checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, replacing the generator control module if necessary, and clearing the trouble code after repairs are made.

7. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P163B without fixing the underlying issue?

- While clearing the code may temporarily turn off the warning light, the underlying issue causing the code will persist and may lead to further problems if left unresolved.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code P163B in a Ford vehicle?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific issue causing the code, but it may involve parts and labor expenses ranging from $100 to $500 or more.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the OBDII code P163B in a Ford vehicle?

- Depending on your skill level and access to tools, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to diagnose and repair the code themselves, especially if the issue is a simple wiring fault.

10. Will fixing the OBDII code P163B improve the overall performance of my Ford vehicle?

- Yes, addressing the code and restoring proper operation of the secondary generator control circuit will help maintain a healthy charging system and ensure optimal performance of the vehicle's electrical components.