AutoCodes – Mercury – P163B Mercury

P163B Mercury 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 Mercury 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 903

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 Mercury 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 Mercury - Secondary Generator Control Circuit Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com — P163B Mercury Code - Secondary Generator Control Circuit Range/Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P163B Mercury?

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 Mercury?

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 Mercury 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 Mercury Code

1. What does the OBDII code P163B mean for a Mercury vehicle?

P163B indicates an issue with the Secondary Generator Control Circuit, specifically a problem with its range or performance.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P163B code in a Mercury vehicle?

Symptoms may include the check engine light turning on, charging system issues, poor battery performance, or the vehicle not starting.

3. What causes the P163B code to appear?

The code can be triggered by a faulty alternator, damaged wiring in the generator control circuit, a defective voltage regulator, or issues with the powertrain control module (PCM).

4. Can I drive my Mercury with the P163B code active?

Itâ€™s not recommended, as continued driving with a malfunctioning charging system could lead to a drained battery and potential vehicle breakdown.

5. How can I diagnose the P163B code?

Start by checking the alternator and its wiring for damage or loose connections, test the battery, and use a multimeter to verify the voltage output of the generator.

6. Does the P163B code always mean the alternator is bad?

No, the issue could also stem from damaged wiring, a faulty voltage regulator, or even a PCM malfunction.

7. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the P163B code?

A diagnostic scan tool, multimeter, and basic hand tools are typically required to diagnose and repair the issue.

8. How is the P163B code typically fixed?

Repairs may involve replacing the alternator, fixing damaged wiring or connectors, replacing the voltage regulator, or reprogramming/updating the PCM if necessary.

9. Are there any preventive measures to avoid the P163B code?

Regularly inspect and maintain the charging system, including the alternator, wiring, and battery, to prevent issues from developing.

10. What should I do if the P163B code reappears after repairs?

Recheck all electrical connections, verify that the alternator and voltage regulator are functioning correctly, and consider having the PCM tested or updated.