AutoCodes – Lincoln – P163C Lincoln

P163C Lincoln 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 Lincoln 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 913

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P163C Lincoln?

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 Lincoln?

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 Lincoln 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 Lincoln Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P163C in a Lincoln related to the Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit Low?

The common symptoms include the battery light illuminating on the dashboard, difficulty starting the vehicle, and possible issues with the electrical system.

2. What are the possible causes of the Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit Low OBDII code in a Lincoln?

The code P163C can be triggered by a faulty generator, damaged wiring in the field terminal circuit, a malfunctioning alternator, or a defective voltage regulator.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P163C in my Lincoln?

To diagnose the issue, you can perform a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors in the generator field terminal circuit, test the alternator and voltage regulator with a multimeter, and check for any loose connections.

4. Can I continue driving my Lincoln with the P163C trouble code present?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with the P163C trouble code active, as it can lead to further damage to the electrical system and potentially leave you stranded due to a dead battery.

5. How can I repair the Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit Low issue in my Lincoln?

The repair process may involve replacing a faulty alternator, repairing damaged wiring in the field terminal circuit, replacing the voltage regulator, or addressing any loose connections.

6. Will resetting the OBDII code P163C in my Lincoln make it go away permanently?

Simply resetting the code will not fix the underlying issue causing the P163C trouble code. It is essential to diagnose and repair the root cause of the problem to prevent the code from reappearing.

7. Is it possible to prevent the Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit Low OBDII code from appearing in my Lincoln?

Regular maintenance of the charging system, including checking the alternator, battery, and wiring, can help prevent issues that may trigger the P163C trouble code.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit Low problem in a Lincoln?

The cost of repairing the P163C trouble code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast with automotive knowledge fix the P163C code in a Lincoln themselves?

If you have the necessary tools, knowledge, and experience working on automotive electrical systems, you may be able to diagnose and repair the Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit Low issue in your Lincoln yourself.

10. Does the OBDII code P163C in a Lincoln pose any safety hazards while driving?

While the code itself may not directly impact the safety of driving your Lincoln, it can lead to a dead battery or electrical system failure, which could pose safety risks if the vehicle stalls unexpectedly.