P1A6F Code - Drive Motor No Crank At Restart
Quick Answer
The Generator Control Module also called the Starter/Generator Control Module is comprised of the following three control modules: the Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module 1, 14 V Power Module, and the Drive Motor Control Module. Common causes include Check/Replace Drive Belt, Faulty Starter/Generator Control Module, Starter/Generator Control Module harness is open or shorted. 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
- P1A6F indicates Drive Motor No Crank At Restart.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Check/Replace Drive Belt, Faulty Starter/Generator Control Module, Starter/Generator Control Module harness is open or shorted.
- 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.
Code P1A6F Description
The eAssist hybrid system has the ability to crank and start the engine using two different methods. The first method is a conventional 12-volt system. On every initial start up the conventional 12-volt starter and 12-volt battery are used to crank and start the engine.
The second starting method uses the 86-volt hybrid/EV battery pack and the starter/generator also called the drive motor. The drive motor is a 3 phase AC induction machine. This device not only serves as an 86-volt AC generator but is also used to provide engine power assist and to start the engine when in auto-stop mode. If the system is in the auto-stop mode and fails to restart with the drive motor, the 12-volt conventional starter will automatically be engaged to start the engine.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the Hybrid/EV Powertrain Control Module 1 detects that an autostart failed to take place successfully.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1A6F?
- Check/Replace Drive Belt
- Faulty Starter/Generator Control Module
- Starter/Generator Control Module harness is open or shorted
- Starter/Generator Control Module circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC P1A6F?
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 P1A6F 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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Information for Specific Makes
- P1A6F Buick — Drive Motor No Crank At Restart
- P1A6F Cadillac — Drive Motor No Crank At Restart
- P1A6F Chevrolet — Drive Motor No Crank At Restart
- P1A6F GMC — Drive Motor No Crank At Restart
- P1A6F Hyundai — Airbag Deployment Signal Circuit High
- P1A6F KIA — Airbag Deployment Signal Circuit High
Frequently Asked Questions about P1A6F Code
1. What does OBDII code P1A6F mean?
Code P1A6F indicates a "Drive Motor No Crank At Restart," meaning the vehicle's hybrid or electric drive motor is not engaging as expected during a restart.
2. What are the common symptoms of code P1A6F?
Symptoms include the vehicle failing to restart, warning lights on the dashboard (such as the MIL or hybrid system warning), and potential reduced drivability in hybrid or EV modes.
3. What causes code P1A6F to trigger?
The code can be caused by issues such as a malfunctioning drive motor, a faulty inverter, low or degraded hybrid battery charge, or wiring problems in the hybrid system.
4. Can a weak hybrid battery cause P1A6F?
Yes, a weak or failing hybrid battery can lead to insufficient power for the drive motor to crank at restart, triggering this code.
5. How is code P1A6F diagnosed?
A technician will use an OBDII scanner to read the code, perform a battery health check, inspect the drive motor and inverter, and check for loose or damaged wiring in the hybrid system.
6. Is it safe to drive with code P1A6F?
Driving with this code may not be safe, as the vehicle could fail to restart or experience reduced performance. It’s best to address the issue as soon as possible.
7. How can I fix code P1A6F?
Repairs may include replacing the drive motor, repairing or replacing the inverter, recharging or replacing the hybrid battery, or repairing damaged wiring.
8. Can clearing the code fix P1A6F?
Clearing the code may temporarily turn off the warning light, but it won’t fix the underlying issue causing the code. Proper diagnosis and repair are required.
9. What vehicles are most likely to experience code P1A6F?
This code is typically seen in hybrid or electric vehicles that rely on a drive motor and inverter for propulsion and restarting.
10. How much does it cost to repair P1A6F?
Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause. Hybrid battery replacement or inverter repairs can range from several hundred to thousands of dollars, while wiring repairs may cost less.
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