AutoCodesBuick – P1A4E Buick

P1A4E Buick Code - Battery Energy Control Module Hybrid Battery System Voltage High

Quick Answer

The drive motor generator battery control module is also referred to as the battery energy control module (BECM). Common causes include Faulty Drive Motor Generator Battery Control Module, Drive Motor Generator Battery Control Module harness is open or shorted, Drive Motor Generator Battery Control Module 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
P1A4E Buick indicates Battery Energy Control Module Hybrid Battery System Voltage High.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Drive Motor Generator Battery Control Module, Drive Motor Generator Battery Control Module harness is open or shorted, Drive Motor Generator Battery Control Module 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 881
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Feb 15, 2020
💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P1A4E Buick Description

The drive motor generator battery control module is also referred to as the battery energy control module (BECM). The drive motor generator battery control module will diagnose its own systems and determine when a fault condition is present. Diagnostics and system status is communicated from the drive motor generator battery control module to the Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) through serial data. The hybrid powertrain control module is the host controller for Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) information.
The drive motor generator battery control module monitors the calculated battery voltage and the terminal voltage. The calculated voltage represents the sum of the voltages from the 20 individual battery measurements. The terminal voltage represents the total DC bus voltage as measured on the output side of the high voltage contactors.
OBDII Code P1A4E Buick - Battery Energy Control Module Hybrid Battery System Voltage High - AutoCodes.com
P1A4E Buick Code - Battery Energy Control Module Hybrid Battery System Voltage High

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1A4E Buick?

  • Faulty Drive Motor Generator Battery Control Module
  • Drive Motor Generator Battery Control Module harness is open or shorted
  • Drive Motor Generator Battery Control Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1A4E Buick?

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 P1A4E Buick 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 P1A4E Buick code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1A4E Buick code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1A4E Buick code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P1A4E Buick Code

What does the OBDII code P1A4E mean for a Buick?

The P1A4E code indicates that the Battery Energy Control Module has detected a high voltage within the hybrid battery system, which can affect performance and safety.

What are the common symptoms of the P1A4E code in a Buick?

Symptoms may include an illuminated check engine or hybrid system warning light, reduced fuel efficiency, limited hybrid system performance, or the vehicle entering limp mode.

What causes the P1A4E code to appear on a Buick?

Common causes include a malfunctioning hybrid battery pack, a faulty battery energy control module, damaged wiring or connectors, or an issue with the battery cooling system.

Can I drive my Buick with the P1A4E code active?

It’s not recommended to drive the vehicle with the P1A4E code active, as high voltage issues in the hybrid battery system can pose safety risks and lead to further damage.

How is the P1A4E code diagnosed in a Buick?

A technician will use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the hybrid battery system for high voltage levels, check the battery energy control module, and examine the wiring and connectors for damage.

What repairs are typically needed to fix the P1A4E code on a Buick?

Repairs may include replacing the hybrid battery pack, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, servicing the battery cooling system, or reprogramming or replacing the battery energy control module.

Can a weak 12-volt battery cause the P1A4E code on a Buick?

A weak 12-volt battery is unlikely to directly cause the P1A4E code, but it could affect the performance of the vehicle’s electrical systems and should be checked as part of the diagnosis.

How much does it cost to fix the P1A4E code on a Buick?

Repair costs vary depending on the issue, but replacing a hybrid battery pack can range from $2,000 to $4,000, while wiring or module repairs may cost less.

Can the P1A4E code clear itself on a Buick?

The code is unlikely to clear itself without addressing the underlying issue. Repairs and a reset using a scan tool are typically required.

What preventative maintenance can help avoid the P1A4E code on a Buick?

Regularly inspect and maintain the hybrid battery system, ensure proper cooling system function, and address any warning lights promptly to help prevent this code.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P1A4E Buick OBDII Code

Code P1A4E Buick comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play