AutoCodes – Ford – P163C Ford

P163C Ford Code - Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit Low

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: P163C Ford indicates Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit Low.
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 13,011

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 P163C 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 P163C Ford - Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P163C Ford Code - Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P163C 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 P163C 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 P163C 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 P163C Ford Code

1. What does the OBDII code P163C mean on a Ford vehicle?

P163C indicates that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a low voltage condition in the secondary generator field terminal circuit.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P163C in a Ford?

Symptoms may include a charging system warning light, dim or flickering headlights, battery not charging properly, or intermittent electrical accessory failures.

3. What causes the P163C code to be triggered?

This code can be caused by a faulty alternator (secondary generator), damaged or corroded wiring, a loose or disconnected field terminal connection, or a malfunctioning PCM.

4. How can I diagnose a P163C code on my Ford?

Begin by checking the secondary generatorâ€™s field terminal and wiring for damage or corrosion, testing the alternatorâ€™s output, and inspecting the battery and PCM connections.

5. Can a bad alternator cause the P163C code to appear?

Yes, a failing or malfunctioning alternator can cause the P163C code by not properly regulating the field terminal voltage.

6. Is the P163C code a serious issue?

While the vehicle may still run initially, the code indicates a problem with the charging system that could lead to battery failure or electrical issues if not addressed promptly.

7. How do I fix the P163C code on a Ford?

Repairs may include replacing the alternator, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or reprogramming or replacing the PCM if necessary.

8. Can I drive my Ford with a P163C code?

Itâ€™s not recommended to drive for extended periods with this code, as it may lead to battery drainage or further electrical system failures.

9. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the P163C code?

Youâ€™ll need a multimeter to test voltage and continuity, a scan tool for reading and clearing codes, and possibly wiring diagrams for the vehicle.

10. Does the battery need to be replaced if the P163C code appears?

Not necessarily. While the battery may be affected by the charging system issue, itâ€™s important to diagnose and fix the root cause before determining if the battery needs replacement.