AutoCodes – Ford – P163D Ford

P163D Ford 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 Ford 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 5,989

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P163D 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 P163D 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 P163D 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 P163D Ford Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P163D in a Ford vehicle?

- Common symptoms include the Check Engine Light coming on, poor vehicle performance, and potential stalling.

2. What does the OBDII code P163D Ford signify?

- The code indicates a problem with the Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit being too high.

3. What are some possible causes of the Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit High fault?

- Potential causes include issues with the generator, faulty wiring or connectors, or a malfunctioning generator control module.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P163D in my Ford vehicle?

- Diagnosing the issue may involve checking the generator, inspecting related wiring and connectors, and testing the generator control module.

5. Can I continue driving my Ford vehicle with the P163D fault code?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with the fault code active, as it can lead to further damage and potential safety issues.

6. How can I repair the Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit High fault in my Ford vehicle?

- Repair may involve fixing or replacing the generator, addressing wiring or connector issues, or replacing the generator control module.

7. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P163D in a Ford without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can clear the code with a diagnostic tool, it is crucial to address the root cause to prevent the problem from reoccurring.

8. Will fixing the Secondary Generator Field Terminal Circuit High fault improve my vehicle's performance?

- Yes, resolving the issue associated with the fault code can help restore optimal vehicle performance and prevent potential damage.

9. Are there any specific Ford models known to experience the P163D fault code frequently?

- While the code can occur in various Ford models, it may be more commonly reported in specific vehicles with generator or electrical system issues.

10. How can regular maintenance help prevent the OBDII code P163D from appearing in my Ford vehicle?

- Regular maintenance, including inspections of the generator and electrical components, can help identify and address potential issues before they trigger the fault code.