AutoCodes – Generic – P163D

P163D Code - Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit High

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: P163D indicates Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit High.
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 6,213

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 P163D 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 P163D - Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P163D Code - Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P163D?

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

How to Fix the DTC P163D?

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 P163D 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.

Need more information about the P163D code?

Need more information on how to fix the P163D code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P163D code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P163D Buick — Glow Plug Control Module Secondary Circuit
P163D Cadillac — Glow Plug Control Module Secondary Circuit
P163D Chevrolet — Glow Plug Control Module Secondary Circuit
P163D Ford — Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit High
P163D GMC — Glow Plug Control Module Secondary Circuit
P163D Lincoln — Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit High
P163D Mercury — Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit High

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 P163D Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P163D (Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit High)?

- Common symptoms include the malfunction indicator light (MIL) illuminating, charging system issues, and potential electrical system problems.

2. What causes the OBDII code P163D to trigger?

- The code P163D is typically triggered by a high voltage reading in the secondary generator field terminal circuit, which may be caused by wiring issues, a faulty generator, or a malfunctioning voltage regulator.

3. How do I diagnose the OBDII code P163D?

- Diagnosis involves inspecting the wiring and connectors in the generator field terminal circuit, testing the generator and voltage regulator, and using a diagnostic scanner to read and clear the code.

4. Can I drive my vehicle with the OBDII code P163D?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with the code P163D present, as it can lead to charging system failure and potentially leave you stranded.

5. How can I repair the OBDII code P163D?

- Repairing the code may involve repairing or replacing damaged wiring, replacing the generator or voltage regulator if faulty, and clearing the code using a diagnostic scanner.

6. Will the OBDII code P163D cause any long-term damage to my vehicle?

- Ignoring the code P163D can lead to long-term damage to the vehicle's electrical system and charging components, potentially resulting in more costly repairs down the line.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the OBDII code P163D at home?

- While some DIY enthusiasts may have the skills to diagnose and repair the code P163D, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair to ensure the issue is resolved correctly.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code P163D?

- The cost of repairing the code P163D can vary depending on the root cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

9. Are there any preventative measures to avoid the OBDII code P163D?

- Regular maintenance of the vehicle's charging system, such as checking the battery, alternator, and electrical connections, can help prevent issues that may trigger the code P163D.

10. Can a bad battery cause the OBDII code P163D to appear?

- Yes, a weak or failing battery can sometimes cause the code P163D to trigger due to fluctuations in voltage output affecting the generator field terminal circuit.